Associated Press
INDIANAPOLIS ó Former BYU star Jimmer Fredette has his first NBA workout under his belt and he admits he was a little winded.
Fredette worked out for Indiana Pacers president Larry Bird and other team officials on Tuesday. He at times was out of breath and was pushed by coaches to go harder. But he wasnít complaining.
ěThis was my first workout so it was a little tiring,î Fredette said. ěWe went really hard for about an hour and 15 minutes straight through. Thatís what happens; you get tired when you do a workout like that.î
Fredette led the Cougars to the 2011 NCAA tournament and started all 37 games of the season, averaging 28.9 points, 3.4 rebounds and 4.3 assists per game.
All the while, his athleticism continues to be in question at the professional level. Can a 6-foot-2 shooter keep up with the pros of the NBA?
ěI think the biggest thing will just be getting used to the athleticism and speed of the game,î Fredette said. ěA lot of rookies hit the wall because theyíre not used to playing that many games. So my job is to try to get in the best condition I can be and try to play at the speed for 82 games.î
Fredette was just one of six potential draft picks working out for the Pacers. Among the others were Marcus Morris of Kansas, Tobias Harris of Tennessee, Nolan Smith of Duke and Vernon Macklin of Florida.
Smith matched up with his friend during the workout. He said Fredette is obviously a good shooter, but can do damage off the dribble, too.
ěYouíre worried about his shot, but he keeps you on your toes because he can keep it on the ground just as well,î Smith said.
Fredette, who has workouts planned with the Knicks, Sacramento, Utah and Phoenix, said he was happy with his work in Indianapolis. The day included a medical exam and a personality test along with the scrimmaging and shooting drills.
ěI thought I did pretty well,î Fredette said. ěI thought I tested well athletically. We had to take a big personality test ó hopefully they like my personality.î
Fredette is familiar with the Pacers squad and says they play the style of basketball he likes.
ěThey have some very good, talented players,î Fredette said. ěTheyíre a good, young team and I think Iíd fit in well.î