The unpredictable life cycle of NBA careers resumed Monday, as the Indiana Pacers welcome the first wave of participants in training camp.

Players with three or fewer years of league experience reported to the team in advance of today's opening practice sessions at Conseco Fieldhouse. Veterans of four or more seasons report on Thursday and begin practice on Friday.

The initial group includes some long shots who will be attempting to find a roster spot among the 15 players who have signed guaranteed contracts with the team.

Point guard Omar Cook, shooting guard Carl English and forwards Hiram Fuller, James Head and Michael Smith don't have a financial guarantee for the upcoming season, but aren't necessarily dreaming an impossible dream.

"You don't know what we're going to do with the roster," Pacers CEO Donnie Walsh said Monday. "If a guy is good enough, you'll do something (to make room)."