Indiana forward Sam Alexis wants to bring 'Big Ten physicality' to NBA

After playing in one of the top basketball conferences in the country, Indiana senior Sam Alexis believes physicality will be a key trait to play with as he transitions to the NBA.

Alexis averaged 8.8 points, 4.8 rebounds, 1.2 assists and 1.2 blocks while shooting a program-record 68.7% from the field in 32 games, including 23 starts. He ranked 12th in the country in 2-point field-goal percentage (70.9) and 12th in the Big Ten in blocked shots (38).

The 6-foot-9 forward arrived in Indiana after playing limited minutes last year with Florida as the group won its third national title. Though he was thrilled to leave as a champion, Alexis was grateful to have played a larger role and to showcase himself at a high level with the Hoosiers.

“I’m a great energy guy,” Alexis said Friday after working out with the Indiana Pacers. “I can bring great energy to your team, being versatile, being able to guard every position, bringing that Big Ten physicality to the NBA. That’s all I’m trying to showcase.”

Alexis finished off the season strong, averaging 12.3 points and 4.8 rebounds over their last 10 games. He scored in double figures 13 times overall, including a season-high 23-point, 11-rebound performance on March 4 in a win over Minnesota.

The 21-year-old wasn’t invited to either draft combine last month, but he is highly touted for his rebounding and ability to protect the paint. He previously led the Southern Conference in blocked shots (2.1 per game) while at Chattanooga during the 2023-24 season.

Alexis is busy proving himself in team workouts and interviews ahead of the two-night draft on June 23-24, including visits with the Memphis and Oklahoma City. He believes his experience playing at Indiana in the Big Ten will help translate to the next level.

“It is going to help a lot,” Alexis said. “I’m not the tallest guy when I’m in the NBA, so the physicality is big: Being tough, being mentally strong. You’re going to be playing against bigger guys every day.”