In an era where high-flying dunks and three-point shooting often dominate the headlines, Portland Trail Blazers sophomore Toumani Camara has emerged as an unsung hero, showcasing the art of drawing charges—a gritty and selfless defensive skill that exemplifies team-first basketball.
Camara’s incredible knack for positioning and anticipation led him to finish the 2024-2025 NBA season as the league’s leader in charges drawn (by a landslide), setting a standard that few players, let alone entire teams, could match.
Camara’s defensive impact was staggering, with 31 total charges drawn throughout the season—more than 21 teams in the NBA. To put his accomplishment in perspective, teams like the 76ers (30), Magic (28), Rockets (27), and Pistons (26) fell short of Camara’s individual mark. Even elite defensive units like the Cavaliers (25), Celtics (19), and Bucks (20) were unable to match his contributions in this category. Camara topped them all with his 31 charges.
Camara not only ranked first in total charges drawn but also led in efficiency metrics:
- Charges Drawn Per Game: 0.40
- Charges Drawn Per 36 Minutes: 0.44
The Portland Trail Blazers finished the season with the fourth-highest team total in charges drawn (47), and Camara alone accounted for an incredible 66% of that tally. His ability to sacrifice his body for the team became a defining feature of Portland’s defense, energizing teammates and rallying fans behind his fearless approach.
While drawing charges may not garner the same attention as scoring or blocking shots, it plays a crucial role in shifting momentum during games. Camara’s defense helped neutralize drives from opposing stars, forcing turnovers and providing Portland with valuable extra possessions.
