Kramer chases dream of playing in the NBA

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - A familiar face will be among those taking part in the Indiana Pacers rookie-free agent camp, which tipped off Thursday afternoon at Bankers Life Fieldhouse.

Former Boilermaker Chris Kramer will be trying to make his mark with the blue and gold.

“Anytime you get to showcase your abilities in front of all the NBA GM's it’s an unbelievable chance. So I'm just really looking forward to that, trying to go there, show what I can do, play within myself, play to my strengths, and hopefully impress some people,” said former Boilermaker Chris Kramer.

Kramer, who last played for Head Coach Matt Painter and the Boilermakers in 2010, has been working out with the hopes of making the Pacers' roster or any NBA roster for that matter.

“It's tough, It really is. Just trying to evolve to give yourself the best opportunity to keep playing as long as possible,” said Kramer.

Kramer, who played his high school hoops at Huntington North, is a two-time Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year who has played professionally for the Fort Wayne Mad Ants, an N-B-A Development League franchise.

This past season Kramer played professionally in Germany, where he led his team in scoring. Kramer also took time to support former Boiler teammate Robbie Hummel during last Thursday night's N-B-A Draft when Hummel was picked by the Minnesota Timberwolves in the second round.

Kramer is making the transition to point guard as he learns the pro game on the fly.

“Being a bigger point guard will definitely be more beneficial. I accepted a deal in Germany for this upcoming season. I have an NBA out so the that means I would stay here is if I go to camp, or if I go to summer league and somebody offers me some guaranteed money of any amount to go to camp,” said Kramer.

His time with the Pacers is just the beginning of his summer tour that includes a stop with the Atlanta Hawks. Once he is doing playing and working out for NBA teams the former Boilermaker must decide what is best for him.

“I have until August first to try to get some guaranteed money from an NBA team. So hopefully everything goes well and I can impress some people. And, you know, I'll be able to get that opportunity. Obviously, the NBA is the ultimate dream,” said Kramer.

After this week in Indianapolis Kramer is scheduled to join the Atlanta Hawks' summer league squad who start play in Las Vegas on July 13, 2012