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[San Antonio Spurs]

Stephon Castle Feels Like He Has NBA Award ‘Locked Up’

(Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)

Stephon Castle has made quite an impression on the San Antonio Spurs during his rookie year.

In fact, he has made an impression on the entire league.

Because of that, he is a frontrunner to claim Rookie of the Year for 2024-25.

Castle feels that he is far and away the favorite to win that prize, and a recent statement from him confirmed that.

“I feel like, at this point, I pretty much got it locked up,” Castle said, per Paul Garcia and NBACentral.

“I feel like, at this point, I pretty much got it locked up…”

– Stephon Castle on the rookie of the year race

(Via @PaulGarciaNBA ) pic.twitter.com/uOxZuqNJUT

— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) April 7, 2025

Castle has earned an average of 14.5 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game this season, shooting 42.4 percent from the field.

He was lucky to join a team that really needed his sort of talent.

The Spurs were willing to see what Castle was capable of and have given him a lot of time on the court during his first year.

He is playing a bit more than 26 minutes per game and has started in 43 of 77 matches.

This season’s rookie class received a lot of criticism last summer after the draft, but they have shown a lot of potential during 2024-25.

Other players like Bub Carrington, Zach Edey, Rob Dillingham, Jared McCain, Dalton Knecht, and plenty more have gained a lot of attention.

But it feels like Castle is the one who will win Rookie of the Year.

If he does claim that prize, all eyes will be on what’s next for him and what he can do in his second year.

The Spurs are getting better, especially with Victor Wembanyama at the center of all their plans.

The team will get more exposure and more success in the years ahead, and Castle could be deeply involved in all they accomplish.

Winning Rookie of the Year is obviously a big deal, but Castle will have to keep it up and continue to impress.

The post Stephon Castle Feels Like He Has NBA Award ‘Locked Up’ appeared first on The Cold Wire.

Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/stephon-castle-feels-like-he-has-nba-award-locked-up/

 

[San Antonio Spurs]

Victor Wembanyama Still Leads An Incredible Stat This Season

(Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)

NBA fans didn’t get to see enough of Victor Wembanyama this year.

Sadly, due to deep vein thrombosis in his right shoulder, Wembanyama only played in 46 games in 2024-25.

But during that time, he did extraordinary things.

In fact, according to StatMuse, Wembanyama has still rejected the most shots this season, with 176 blocks.

He has been out of the league since February 12, but Wembanyama is still the block leader for the league.

He's been out since February 12. pic.twitter.com/IUsxI0MDEA

— StatMuse (@statmuse) April 10, 2025

This is a testament to the colossal power of Wembanyama, who is now in his second year in the NBA.

Before being sidelined, he was averaging 24.3 points, 11.0 rebounds, and 3.8 blocks per game.

There is no doubt that he was the frontrunner for Defensive Player of the Year and was helping the San Antonio Spurs turn things around and become a much stronger force in the Western Conference.

Now, fans will have to wait until next season to see more of Wembanyama’s power.

The latest reports say that he has undergone surgery and is feeling fine, so the outlook for Wembanyama is good.

This is hopefully not the beginning of a troubling trend because no one wants to see this star out of commission for long, and everyone hopes he doesn’t get hurt or suffer medical problems often.

The race for Defensive Player of the Year has opened up since Wembanyama’s departure, with many people feeling that Draymond Green of the Golden State Warriors will win.

But this stat proves that everyone needs to be prepared for Wembanyama’s return because he will continue to dominate.

The post Victor Wembanyama Still Leads An Incredible Stat This Season appeared first on The Cold Wire.

Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/victor-wembanyama-still-leads-an-incredible-stat-this-season/

 

[San Antonio Spurs]

Victor Wembanyama Still Led League In Defensive Stat This Season

(Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)

Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs hasn’t played a game since February, but he is still one of the most dominant players in the league.

According to Courtside Buzz, Wembanyama still has the most blocks in 2024-25, with 176, or 3.8 per game.

But because he only played in 46 games, he is not able to hold the title of blocks leader.

Instead, that honor has gone to Brook Lopez, who has 148 blocks (1.9 per game), and Walker Kessler with 2.4.

WEMBY UNOFFICIALLY LED NBA IN BLOCKS: Victor Wembanyama STILL led the NBA in blocks with 176 (3.8 BPG) despite playing in just 46 games!

But, because Wemby played in so few games, he did not qualify to be the official NBA leader.

Who led the NBA in 2024-25, officially?… pic.twitter.com/Mvh1QXrE1n

— Courtside Buzz (@CourtsideBuzzX) April 13, 2025

This leads to an important question: will Wembanyama be Defensive Player of the Year next season and the years beyond?

If he had stayed healthy this year and reached the 65-game threshold, Wembanyama most certainly would have been DPOY.

Even before the season began, it felt like the league was aching to give him that trophy.

Wembanyama wasn’t able to play as much as he wanted, but the prognosis about him seems good, and he should be back and ready to play at the start of 2025-26.

Wembanyama’s defensive game has been great since entering the league.

In fact, all of his skills have gotten better, and Wembanyama has improved on both ends of the court.

For the season, he averaged 24.3 points, 11.0 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 1.1 steals, and 3.8 blocks.

The league is filled with talented big men who can lock down opponents with their suffocating defense, but Wembanyama is even more special than most because he is so young, so incredible, and only getting better.

Wembanyama and the Spurs missed out on the playoffs this year, but they are hoping that when he is back and healthy next season, things will look very different.

The post Victor Wembanyama Still Led League In Defensive Stat This Season appeared first on The Cold Wire.

Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/victor-wembanyama-still-led-league-in-defensive-stat-this-season/

 

[San Antonio Spurs]

Jeremy Sochan Raves About Chris Paul’s Notable Milestone

(Photo by Kevin Sousa/Getty Images)

He may appear in the playoffs this year, but Chris Paul of the San Antonio Spurs just pulled off something remarkable.

Paul appeared in all 82 games this regular season, averaging 8.8 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 7.7 assists.

At 39 years old, he is clearly still dedicated to the game and his team, and Spurs star Jeremy Sochan definitely noticed.

Speaking with Tom Orsborn, Sochan opened up about Paul’s amazing track record this year.

“He could be in flipping, I don’t know, Hawaii, doing nothing. And he’s here in San Antonio, Texas, busting his a– 82 f—–g games, just doing his thing. And I think that’s what I’ve noticed, just the passion that he has,” Sochan said, per Legion Hoops.

Jeremy Sochan on Chris Paul playing in his 82nd game of the season today:

“He could be in flipping, I don’t know, Hawaii, doing nothing. And he’s here in San Antonio, Texas, busting his a** 82 f***ing games, just doing his thing. And I think that’s what I’ve noticed, just the… pic.twitter.com/QrCnxKLVZj

— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) April 14, 2025

Playing this much at any age is impressive, but doing it at 39 is incredible.

Even when it became apparent that the Spurs wouldn’t be reaching the playoffs, Paul was still ready to suit up every single night and give it his all.

Since coming to San Antonio at the start of the season, Paul has taken on a mentor role for many of the younger stars on the team, including Sochan.

He wants to inspire and lead them, and he’s the perfect man for that job.

No one is entirely sure what is next for Paul.

He has said that he wants to keep playing as long as he stays healthy, and he desires to remain in San Antonio.

He obviously has a lot of fight left in him and doesn’t want to play less even as he grows older.

Will he be with the Spurs next year, and will he come close to playing 82 games again?

He definitely isn’t slowing down.

The post Jeremy Sochan Raves About Chris Paul’s Notable Milestone appeared first on The Cold Wire.

Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/jeremy-sochan-raves-about-chris-pauls-notable-milestone/

 

[San Antonio Spurs]

Gregg Popovich Recently Had Another Concerning Health Incident

(Photo by Tyler Kaufman/Getty Images)

The NBA was unfortunately without Gregg Popovich for the vast majority of the 2024-25 season.

After coaching just five games, Popovich suffered a mild stroke and took the rest of the season off.

Sadly, Popovich just had a medical setback on his road to recovery.

According to TMZ, per NBACentral, Popovich was taken to the hospital on Tuesday night after fainting at a restaurant.

He was transported out on a stretcher, sought medical care, and is now stable and recovering at home.

Gregg Popovich was taken to the hospital Tuesday night after fainting at a San Antonio restaurant, per @TMZ

TMZ reports he was stretchered out and may still be feeling effects from a mild stroke suffered in November.

Prayers for Pop

pic.twitter.com/dVkL6ZBdbp

— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) April 18, 2025

All of this raises many questions about what is next for Popovich and the San Antonio Spurs.

In Popovich’s absence, assistant coach Mitch Johnson led the team.

Popovich has visited the Spurs since his stroke and saw them after the All-Star break, but it’s not clear what will happen next year.

Reports said that Popovich was making progress, and the Spurs said they would let him decide what he wants to do.

There was hope that he’d be healthy enough to return to coaching next season, but this latest incident cast doubt on that idea.

It goes without saying that Popovich is one of the most respected and important coaches of all time.

He has been with the Spurs since the 1996-97 season and has led them to five championships.

If Popovich cannot come back to the Spurs because of his health, the team will be at a major turning point as they attempt to foster young talent like Victor Wembanyama and Stephon Castle.

The Spurs want Popovich back, but above all else, they want him healthy.

They hope he can recover and return to the team soon.

The post Gregg Popovich Recently Had Another Concerning Health Incident appeared first on The Cold Wire.

Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/gregg-popovich-recently-had-another-concerning-health-incident/

 

[San Antonio Spurs]

Stephon Castle Reacts To Winning Rookie Of The Year Award

(Photo by Alex Slitz/Getty Images)

The future looks very bright for the San Antonio Spurs, and they received another massive honor on Tuesday.

The league announced that Stephon Castle was named Rookie of the Year.

That means the Spurs have the last two ROTY winners, which is a promise that things are only getting better in San Antonio.

Speaking with ESPN, Castle talked about his confidence and how that made all this success possible.

“I’ve always been super confident as a player,” Castle told ESPN. “So, I felt like there was no doubt in my mind that I would eventually get to this point, especially with all the work that I put in. I felt like it was just inevitable to happen. I feel like [confidence is] what really got me to this point, and not holding myself back from anything.”

Castle was chosen as the fourth overall pick in the 2024 draft and ended the season with an average of 14.7 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 4.1 assists on 42.8 percent from the field.

He led all rookies in total points, made field goals, and steals, and started in 47 of his 80 games.

The Spurs have now become the fifth team in league history and just the second in the last 50 years to have back-to-back Rookie of the Year winners.

As all fans remember, Victor Wembanyama was given that honor last year and is considered one of the best young players of his generation.

The Spurs are building something special in San Antonio.

They might be out of playoff contention right now, but there is every reason to believe they will be postseason contenders in the next few years, especially with Wembanyama and Castle running things.

Castle believes in himself and what he is capable of.

He wants to make his team proud and hopes to start a brand new era of postseason greatness for San Antonio.

The post Stephon Castle Reacts To Winning Rookie Of The Year Award appeared first on The Cold Wire.

Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/stephon-castle-reacts-to-winning-rookie-of-the-year-award/

 

[San Antonio Spurs]

Steve Kerr Believes 2 Coaches Transformed The NBA

(Photo by Sam Hodde/Getty Images)

Today, Steve Kerr of the Golden State Warriors is one of the most accomplished and respected coaches in the NBA.

But there was a time when he was just a player, looking to be guided and led.

On Friday, Kerr spoke about the men who shaped him and how the entire league has been influenced by two NBA giants.

He said that the newly retired Gregg Popovich and Phil Jackson “transformed” coaching in multiple years over the last 20 years.

“I think [Gregg Popovich] transformed coaching over the last 20 years,” Kerr explained to NBC Sports. “I think it went from one era to the next with several coaches leading the way. I think Phil Jackson and Pop, and I know I’m biased for both of them, but each of them in their own way transformed the coaching profession into more than just X’s and O’s authoritarian figure to culture and collaboration and the unique chemistry great teams have. Those two guys, in my mind, helped create the current culture we’re in.

Kerr was lucky enough to play for both Popovich and Jackson during his 15-year career as an NBA player.

He also happened to win a championship with both of them.

They were two forces of nature who gained a lot of attention, not just for how they handled their players and the press, but for how they changed the ways people viewed the game of basketball.

To many, Popovich and Jackson are just as important as the players they coached.

Popovich announced on Friday that he was retiring from coaching, but he won’t stray far from the San Antonio Spurs.

No matter what happens, his influence will still be felt in Kerr, Ime Udoka, and the many other coaches who were influenced by him.

It’s not every day that a non-player transforms the league, but that is exactly what Popovich and Jackson did, and their legacies will remain.

The post Steve Kerr Believes 2 Coaches Transformed The NBA appeared first on The Cold Wire.

Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/steve-kerr-believes-2-coaches-transformed-the-nba/

 

[San Antonio Spurs]

Victor Wembanyama Sends Message To Gregg Popovich After Leaving HC Duties

(Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)

On Friday, Gregg Popovich announced that he was officially stepping down as head coach of the San Antonio Spurs after 29 years.

29 years is a very long time, and Popovich quite literally changed the game during that period.

His team’s biggest star, Victor Wembanyama, took to social media to celebrate the NBA icon.

“Coach, thank you for your wisdom, for your leadership, for the culture you created… But most importantly for being a great and inspiring person,” Wembanyama wrote on X, before adding that it was an honor to be part of his legacy.

29 years.

Coach, thank you for your wisdom, for your leadership, for the culture you created…

But most importantly for being a great and inspiring person.

It was an honor to be a part of those 29 years

Wishing you the best on your new chapter.

— Wemby (@wemby) May 2, 2025

Throughout his many years in the league, Popovich coached some of the best stars in NBA history, such as David Robinson, Tony Parker, Manu Ginobili, and more.

All of them will miss what Popovich brought to the league and the ways he changed them and transformed how people valued players, coaches, and teams.

Popovich was supposed to take Wembanyama to new heights, and there were hopes he’d oversee another run to the Finals with his Spurs.

But his health problems got in the way, and now Popovich is stepping away for good.

However, he will still be involved with the team and will surely be rooting for them.

That means that Wembanyama’s relationship with Popovich will continue, even if he isn’t being coached by him.

Popovich will now take on the role of President of Basketball Operations, meaning he will work closely with the team’s front office and will still dictate some front office decisions.

Even though he is no longer coaching, Popovich is not leaving the organization.

That’s a good thing because people cannot envision a Spurs team without him.

The post Victor Wembanyama Sends Message To Gregg Popovich After Leaving HC Duties appeared first on The Cold Wire.

Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/victor-...ge-to-gregg-popovich-after-leaving-hc-duties/

 

[San Antonio Spurs]

Victor Wembanyama Notches Notable NBA Award On Friday

(Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs wasn’t able to play a full season in 2024-25, but he still made every game count.

On Friday, the Spurs announced that Wembanyama earned a mighty big honor after his second season.

He led the league in blocks, even though he appeared in only 46 games this season.

During those 46 games, he put up 3.8 blocks per game.

That’s impressive, but the more impressive fact is that this is his second year leading the NBA in blocks.

Congratulations, @wemby

In just 46 games, Victor led the NBA in blocks this season

pic.twitter.com/kWre3JqxeZ

— San Antonio Spurs (@spurs) May 30, 2025

Wembanyama has been in the league for just two years, and he is already doing things that other players only dream of.

This season, he posted 24.3 points and 11.0 rebounds per game, along with his 3.7 assists and 1.1 steals.

The former Rookie of the Year is now an All-Star and could be on his way to being MVP and possibly a champion, too.

Sadly, this season was cut short because he was diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis in his right shoulder.

But he is apparently doing well and on his way to being fully recovered before next season kicks off.

Most people assumed that Wembanyama was going to win Defensive Player of the Year, but he was eliminated from contention because he didn’t play in enough games.

But next season, he could win that award and even more.

The Spurs are eager to get Wembanyama back.

They aren’t where they want to be, but they still believe the sky is the limit as long as they have him in the lineup.

How many blocks will he put up next season, and how many trophies will he take home?

The post Victor Wembanyama Notches Notable NBA Award On Friday appeared first on The Cold Wire.

Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/victor-wembanyama-notches-notable-nba-award-on-friday/

 

[San Antonio Spurs]

Victor Wembanyama Has Drastic Change In Appearance

(Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)

San Antonio Spurs and NBA fans in general have been concerned about the status of burgeoning superstar Victor Wembanyama for months, ever since he bowed out early during the 2025 season due to deep vein thrombosis, which was a troubling diagnosis for one of the league’s brightest stars.

Fans would be happy to know that Wemby has resurfaced this week and has had a drastic change in appearance.

Bleacher Report shared a few photos on X of Wemby spending some time this offseason at a Shaolin Temple, and he is looking quite peaceful and sporting a freshly-shaven head.

Wemby shaved his head at a Shaolin Temple

Safe to say he’s having quite the offseason

(via @SpursGDP, @SpursSixthMan) pic.twitter.com/RZQ0TvToeO

— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) June 8, 2025

Wembanyama becoming a monk would be bad news for the rest of the league, as he is already a stoic assassin capable of dismantling teams on both ends of the court with an impressively calm demeanor.

The NBA season is as grueling as it ever has been given the pace of play, not to mention the fact that Wemby had an incredible run through the Olympics prior to this season, so it’s nice to see him enjoying some rest and relaxation ahead of his third year in the NBA.

His Spurs are in a position to make some big improvements this offseason, as they have the second pick in the draft and plenty of room to make a big splash or two in free agency or in the trade market.

Regardless of what they do, nothing matters if Wemby isn’t healthy, and he looks to be doing just fine as he gets ready to make a big comeback next season.

The post Victor Wembanyama Has Drastic Change In Appearance appeared first on The Cold Wire.

Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/victor-wembanyama-has-drastic-change-in-appearance/

 

[San Antonio Spurs]

Bill Simmons Believes Spurs Trade For Suns Star Is ‘Already Done’

(Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)

The Phoenix Suns have been at the center of dozens of rumors lately, mostly about Kevin Durant.

Durant is most certainly leaving the team this summer, but several franchises are reportedly in the mix to acquire him.

Speaking on his podcast, Bill Simmons said he wouldn’t be shocked to find out that a deal for Durant between the San Antonio Spurs and Suns is already done.

“I wouldn’t be surprised if KD to the Spurs is done already… like they’ve agreed on the specifics and they’ll just announce it the week of the draft,” Simmons said, per Fullcourtpass.

Bill Simmons thinks Kevin Durant to the Spurs could be done

“I wouldn't be surprised if KD to the Spurs is done already… like they’ve agreed on the specifics and they’ll just announce it the week of the draft.”

(Via @rBillSimmonsPod) pic.twitter.com/tgtz9u8uzm

— Fullcourtpass (@Fullcourtpass) June 9, 2025

The Spurs recently floated to the top of the rumor pile when it comes to Durant.

Texas teams have always been in the mix for Durant, with the Houston Rockets and Dallas Mavericks reportedly also in contention.

But the Spurs have the necessary pieces that the Suns want, and both sides could benefit from this trade.

The Spurs, of course, might have the most to gain because they are building one of the most exciting cores in the West, all led by Victor Wembanyama.

With De’Aaron Fox, Stephon Castle, and now Durant by his side, Wembanyama could push the team up the standings and make some serious noise.

As for the Suns, they could get some developing or proven win-now talent, as well as much-needed draft picks.

Phoenix will likely make other trades this summer, too, and they want to build a stronger roster around Devin Booker.

Simmons isn’t the only person envisioning Durant in San Antonio, but Spurs fans shouldn’t get their hopes up.

The NBA offseason is always full of surprises, and Durant’s future is definitely still up in the air.

The post Bill Simmons Believes Spurs Trade For Suns Star Is ‘Already Done’ appeared first on The Cold Wire.

Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/bill-simmons-believes-spurs-trade-for-suns-star-is-already-done/

 

[San Antonio Spurs]

Insider Names 2 ‘Players To Watch’ For Spurs Amid Heating Trade Rumors

(Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)

The San Antonio Spurs are allegedly in the hunt for Kevin Durant and could be trading for the Phoenix Suns star soon.

If that happens, they will have to part ways with a few promising players.

According to John Gambadoro, via Evan Sidery, Jeremy Sochan and Devin Vassell are “two players to watch who could be included in a potential Kevin Durant trade with the Spurs.”

“The Suns are prioritizing young talent and draft capital in a Durant deal ahead of the 2025 NBA Draft,” Sidery added.

Jeremy Sochan and Devin Vassell are two players to watch who could be included in a potential Kevin Durant trade with the Spurs, per @Gambo987 (https://t.co/LzGZ8xPmPU).

The Suns are prioritizing young talent and draft capital in a Durant deal ahead of the 2025 NBA Draft. pic.twitter.com/GgCXvDRHvr

— Evan Sidery (@esidery) June 11, 2025

Last season, Sochan averaged 11.4 points and 6.5 rebounds, while Vassell was good for 16.3 points and 4.0 rebounds.

They are two young players who have received some good experience with the Spurs and could be very attractive to the Suns.

For weeks now, people have wondered what approach Phoenix would take.

Would they be angling for win-now talent, or would they instead want draft picks and young stars who can develop over the years?

Will they be aggressive about getting competitive right now with Devin Booker, or are they okay waiting a few years?

It looks like they are trying to do a little of both, acquiring players who aren’t brand new but still have room to grow.

Of course, they would love a plethora of draft picks, too.

A potential trade deal is coming into focus between these two teams, but it’s important to remember that nothing is set in stone yet.

A lot can happen in the days ahead, but more and more people believe that Durant is headed to San Antonio.

The post Insider Names 2 ‘Players To Watch’ For Spurs Amid Heating Trade Rumors appeared first on The Cold Wire.

Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/insider-names-2-players-to-watch-for-spurs-amid-heating-trade-rumors/

 

[San Antonio Spurs]

Insider Reveals 2 ‘Names To Watch’ For Spurs Amid Suns Star Pursuit

(Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)

The San Antonio Spurs are one of the few teams looking to acquire Kevin Durant from the Phoenix Suns, but they have plans if their quest for Durant falls apart.

According to Brett Siegel, via Legion Hoops, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Jaylen Brown are “names to watch” for San Antonio if they pull out of their pursuit of Durant.

Both of these players could be major additions to the Spurs.

REPORT: Giannis and Jaylen Brown are names to watch for the Spurs if they pull out of their pursuit of Kevin Durant., per @BrettSiegelNBA. pic.twitter.com/AoE8r58Dx0

— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) June 17, 2025

This makes it clear that the Spurs would like to improve their roster even more this summer, even if they don’t get Durant.

Antetokounmpo has been the center of trade rumors for weeks now, with some speculating that he is ready to move on from the Milwaukee Bucks, the only team he’s ever played for.

Lately, most insiders feel that he will likely remain in Milwaukee, but perhaps the Spurs can make an offer that is too enticing to pass up.

As for Brown, he is part of a Boston Celtics team that is currently weighing its options.

With Jayson Tatum likely out for all of next season due to an injury, the front office is deciding what it wants to do.

Will several Boston stars be traded away in order for the Celtics to remain competitive as they wait for Tatum’s return?

There was a time when the thought of Brown leaving Boston seemed impossible, especially after the monstrous contract he received, but maybe times have changed, and they would be open to hearing a trade proposal from San Antonio.

The Spurs are obviously open to doing something big this summer, and they would like to get Durant.

But if they don’t, they will clearly continue to hunt for a new superstar to add to the lineup.

The post Insider Reveals 2 ‘Names To Watch’ For Spurs Amid Suns Star Pursuit appeared first on The Cold Wire.

Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/insider-reveals-2-names-to-watch-for-spurs-amid-suns-star-pursuit/

 

[San Antonio Spurs]

Pelicans Star Shares Emotional Story About Gregg Popovich

(Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)

Dejounte Murray may now be a member of the New Orleans Pelicans, but he got his start playing for the San Antonio Spurs.

He was one of the lucky NBA stars to be coached by Gregg Popovich, who recently retired from being the head coach after years of leading the Spurs.

Murray recently shared a touching and remarkable story about Popovich and how he helped his family.

During Murray’s rookie year, Popovich took it upon himself to offer money to move Murray’s mom to San Antonio after she had been shot.

“That was a man who wanted me to reach my full potential in life first—then as a basketball player. He’s so real. [Gregg] Popovich tried to move my mom to San Antonio with his own money after she got shot. My mom was shot in the leg my rookie year. He called her himself—without me knowing until after the fact. ‘We want to move you here. No—not with his money, with my money.’ That sounds like a dude that cares about me and loves me, right?” Murray said.

Dejounte Murray says Gregg Popovich tried to use his own money to move Dejounte’s mom to San Antonio after finding out she had been shot

“It was so crazy—a lot of my people don’t even know this. From family, friends, and the penitentiary… Pop didn’t want me to go to Seattle.… pic.twitter.com/KIYb1QG5NQ

— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) June 18, 2025

This is the sort of story that didn’t receive any headlines at the time, but it obviously and rightfully had a huge influence on Murray.

At that point, Popovich had only known the young player for months, but he was still willing to put his own money into helping his family’s situation.

This is not something that happens often in the NBA or any sports league, and it shows the type of person Popovich is.

Again and again, players have talked about how compassionate and caring he was as a head coach.

To the media, he was a prickly figure who liked to be blunt and cold, but to the players and staff, he was warm and giving.

The Spurs were saddened when Popovich had to step down from his position due to health reasons, but he will remain close to the team.

And stories like this show that his impact will be felt for years to come, even for stars who have moved away from San Antonio.

The post Pelicans Star Shares Emotional Story About Gregg Popovich appeared first on The Cold Wire.

Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/pelicans-star-shares-emotional-story-about-gregg-popovich/

 

[San Antonio Spurs]

Kevin Durant Reportedly ‘Wants To Play’ For 1 Western Conference Team

(Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

In just a matter of days, Kevin Durant may no longer be a member of the Phoenix Suns.

While we are almost positive that he is leaving the team, we don’t know where he will go, and speculation is running rampant.

According to a new report from The Athletic, via Hoop Central, out of Durant’s preferred destinations, he “specifically wants to play for the Spurs.”

However, just because Durant wants to be in San Antonio doesn’t mean it’ll happen.

REPORT — According to @TheAthletic, out of Kevin Durant’s preferred trade destinations, KD “specifically wants to play for the Spurs.” pic.twitter.com/EOS5jP7wV2

— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) June 17, 2025

One can’t blame Durant for wishing to join the Spurs.

They have quite a few promising young stars on the team, including Victor Wembanyama.

This is a squad that could be one of the best in the West in a few years.

Plus, it brings Durant back to Texas, where he went to college.

However, this isn’t solely about what Durant wants, because the Suns are officially in charge.

They will only commit to a trade that brings them a lot, enough to start a powerful and healthy post-Durant chapter.

Apparently, they are not blown away by the offer from the Spurs, so this deal may not happen.

Of course, the Spurs may come back with a better potential package, one that can make everyone happy.

But how much do they really want Durant?

Although he is a great and proven player, perhaps the Spurs have faith in the roster they hold now.

Maybe they aren’t willing to offer a lot because they simply aren’t that invested in acquiring Durant, who is moving closer to retirement.

Durant reportedly wants to go to the Spurs, but it doesn’t sound like this is close to a done deal, at least not yet.

The post Kevin Durant Reportedly ‘Wants To Play’ For 1 Western Conference Team appeared first on The Cold Wire.

Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/kevin-durant-reportedly-wants-to-play-for-1-western-conference-team/

 

[San Antonio Spurs]

Insider Reveals What He’s Hearing About Kevin Durant, Spurs

(Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)

The San Antonio Spurs were among the most exciting teams in the NBA in the first half of the 2024-2025 season.

Victor Wembanyama was seemingly a lock for Defensive Player of the Year, and De’Aaron Fox and Chris Paul seemed to be gelling at the right time.

However, Wembanyama’s health took a turn for the worse, as did Fox’s, which led to a downfall in the second half of the season.

The outlook for the Spurs is positive heading into the new season, however, as Wembanyama appears to be on track to play in the season opener.

There’s been chatter about pieces the Spurs could add during the offseason to help this team take the next step, and Kevin Durant’s name has been brought up a lot during conversations.

He could be a short-term fix, but he comes at a price.

It’s unclear what the Spurs are willing to pay for someone of his ilk, but Shams Charania laid out the current situation in a recent segment of Pat McAfee’s show.

“There’s a certain price threshold they’ll go for a guy like Kevin Durant, and if that price doesn’t align with Phoenix’s, then clearly there’s just not going to be a deal,” Charania said.

"There's a certain price threshold they'll go to for a guy like Kevin Durant, and if that price doesn't align with Phoenix's, then clearly there's just not going to be a deal."@ShamsCharania shares an update on the Spurs and Kevin Durant

(via @PatMcAfeeShow) pic.twitter.com/ZiqnrlSOgD

— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) June 19, 2025

Charania mentioned that the Spurs are willing to buy into Durant at the right price, but he’s not a player that they’re willing to overpay for.

After all, he is seen as one of the best pure shooters of all time, but with an expiring clock on his career, teams have to understand that they’re only getting him for a few years.

The future is bright with the young players in San Antonio, and they don’t want to risk too much of that just for a rental like Durant, at least at a steep price tag.

The post Insider Reveals What He’s Hearing About Kevin Durant, Spurs appeared first on The Cold Wire.

Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/insider-reveals-what-hes-hearing-about-kevin-durant-spurs/

 

[San Antonio Spurs]

Spurs Are Reportedly Showing Interest In Celtics Star

(Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)

The Boston Celtics face a period of significant transformation as multiple factors converge to reshape the franchise.

Billionaire Bill Chisolm’s $6.1 billion acquisition has set the stage for potential changes, while Jayson Tatum’s devastating Achilles injury adds uncertainty to their championship aspirations.

The NBA’s new Collective Bargaining Agreement further complicates Boston’s ability to maintain their current roster construction.

A new report hints that the Celtics might move on from a key frontcourt piece, with the Spurs eyeing Kristaps Porziņģis.

“The Spurs, sources say, have held some exploratory talks about trading for the 7-foot-2 center. That would certainly be a fascinating outcome for Porziņģis if he were to land with the on-the-rise Spurs alongside the 7-foot-5 Victor Wembanyama,” Jake Fischer of The People’s Insider reported, per NBA Central.

The San Antonio Spurs have shown interest in Kristaps Porziņģis, per @JakeLFischer

“The Spurs, sources say, have held some exploratory talks about trading for the 7-foot-2 center. That would certainly be a fascinating outcome for Porziņģis if he were to land with the… pic.twitter.com/M7UVT9YMQQ

— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) June 24, 2025

The speculation around Kristaps Porzingis stems from multiple factors affecting his value in Boston.

The Latvian center appeared in just 42 games during the 2024-2025 campaign, with his availability becoming a persistent concern.

A mysterious illness that carried into the postseason further limited his effectiveness, forcing extended absences during crucial moments.

San Antonio’s interest makes strategic sense following their unsuccessful pursuit of Kevin Durant, who ultimately joined the Houston Rockets.

The Spurs appear ready to pivot toward building around Victor Wembanyama with complementary veteran talent.

A frontcourt pairing of Porzingis and Wembanyama would create matchup nightmares for opposing teams while providing the scoring punch San Antonio has lacked.

At 28 years old, Porzingis fits the timeline alongside emerging stars like Wembanyama and De’Aaron Fox.

His ability to stretch defenses and create mismatches could unlock new dimensions in San Antonio’s offensive system.

However, his injury history remains a significant consideration for any potential suitor, as durability concerns have plagued multiple seasons throughout his career.

The post Spurs Are Reportedly Showing Interest In Celtics Star appeared first on The Cold Wire.

Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/spurs-are-reportedly-showing-interest-in-celtics-star/

 

[San Antonio Spurs]

Chris Paul Is Reportedly ‘Determined’ To Make Big Western Conference Move

(Photo by Kevin Sousa/Getty Images)

Chris Paul just finished his 20th season in the NBA, but he may not be done yet.

The 12-time All-Star has said he’d like to keep playing in the league, but there is a lot of curiosity and speculation about where he will be next season.

According to a new report from Marc Stein, Paul may very well be back in 2025-26, but he might not be with the San Antonio Spurs.

In fact, he could try to move himself closer to home in Los Angeles.

“Chris Paul would be another Mavericks target at $5.7 million, but there is a growing belief that Paul — after starting all 82 games last season in San Antonio as a 39-year-old newcomer to the Spurs — is determined to play closer to his home base in Los Angeles if he indeed comes back for a 21st season,” Stein said, via NBACentral.

Chris Paul is reportedly ‘determined’ to play closer to home in Los Angeles next season, per @TheSteinLine

“Chris Paul would be another Mavericks target at $5.7 million, but there is a growing belief that Paul — after starting all 82 games last season in San Antonio as a… pic.twitter.com/x1s9oscYGn

— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) June 28, 2025

Over the last few weeks, there has been a lot of talk about Paul possibly moving to the Dallas Mavericks.

That is because the Mavericks will be without Kyrie Irving for much of next season, and they want a proven and reliable point guard to lead them.

Paul certainly checks all the boxes for someone the Mavericks could use.

However, he would rather play in Los Angeles so he can be close to his family and friends, which makes complete sense.

He is at the point in his career where he is thinking of what comes after he hangs up his jersey for good.

Being near his family and friends is something that Paul deserves, especially after such a special and historic career.

That career isn’t over yet, because Paul clearly still has gas in the tank.

Last season, he played in all 82 games for the Spurs, posting 8.8 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 7.4 assists.

Paul still wants to play, and he is still able.

He just wants to make sure he does it closer to home.

The post Chris Paul Is Reportedly ‘Determined’ To Make Big Western Conference Move appeared first on The Cold Wire.

Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/chris-paul-is-reportedly-determined-to-make-big-western-conference-move/

 

[San Antonio Spurs]

Spurs Make Big Announcement About Victor Wembanyama

(Photo by Ronald Cortes/Getty Images)

Back in February, Victor Wembanyama’s deep vein thrombosis diagnosis in his right shoulder sent shockwaves across the NBA.

The condition, a dangerous blood clot that has derailed more than a few careers, prompted the San Antonio Spurs to shut him down for the remainder of the 2024-25 season.

At just 21, Wembanyama had already cemented his role as the cornerstone of San Antonio’s future, making his absence deeply felt on both ends of the floor.

Now there’s a major positive development for the franchise that has been building around him from day one.

“The Spurs have officially cleared Wemby to return to basketball activities, he said in a statement to L’Équipe. A deep vein right shoulder thrombosis limited him to just 46 games last season,” NBA on ESPN shared.

The Spurs have officially cleared Wemby to return to basketball activities, he said in a statement to L'Équipe

A deep vein right shoulder thrombosis limited him to just 46 games last season.

Full story: https://t.co/NPaRi1L41k pic.twitter.com/Ttw4kxGw2H

— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) July 14, 2025

Wembanyama remained active during his recovery process.

He went on a 10-day training retreat at the Shaolin Temple in China, focusing on mental clarity, body control, and alternative conditioning methods.

He later vacationed in Japan, where he was spotted playing soccer and engaging with fans.

Victor Wembanyama’s rookie season may have ended early, but his impact was undeniable.

Averaging 24.3 points, 11 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and a league-high 3.8 blocks per game, Wemby was in rare air.

He joined only Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in 1975-76 with such a stat line.

His ability to dominate inside while launching 304 three-pointers set him apart as a generational two-way talent. Before his injury, he was on a clear path to Defensive Player of the Year honors.

Now, with the Spurs adding De’Aaron Fox, Rookie of the Year Stephon Castle, and No. 2 overall pick Dylan Harper, Wemby’s return could spark a new chapter in San Antonio.

After a 34-48 finish last year, this reloaded roster feels ready to re-enter the playoff hunt with Wembanyama leading the way.

The post Spurs Make Big Announcement About Victor Wembanyama appeared first on The Cold Wire.

Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/spurs-make-big-announcement-about-victor-wembanyama/

 

[San Antonio Spurs]

Paul Pierce Has High Praise For 1 Spurs Legend

(Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)

During his many years in the NBA, Paul Pierce battled a slew of tough opponents, and some of them became Hall of Famers.

Pierce had his work cut out for him, but certain competitors were harder than others.

Speaking to All The Smoke Productions, Pierce hailed Manu Ginobili of the San Antonio Spurs, saying that no one could move and pass like him.

“Manu, I ain’t gonna lie, he’s one of the top-five most difficult players that I’ve had to guard. Long hair Ginobili was one of the best players in the league. If he wasn’t in San Antonio, he would’ve been a 10-time All Star,” Pierce said.

“If he wasn’t in San Antonio, he would’ve been a 10-time All Star.”

KG & Paul reflect on the legend of long-hair @manuginobili, and how much of a problem he was for the rest of the league. pic.twitter.com/QPAcUdb1I9

— All the Smoke (@allthesmokeprod) July 14, 2025

Ginobili is considered one of the best bench players of all time.

There is a reason he’s in the Hall of Fame, and it’s evident every time someone watches a highlight reel of his career.

During his 16 years in the league, Ginobili produced an average of 13.3 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 3.8 assists.

He was always providing the Spurs with whatever they needed.

His ability to carve a path to the basket was sensational, and Pierce noted how the defense couldn’t slow him down.

On top of that, Ginobili was a master when it came to finding teammates.

He could pass the ball from across the court, often through the legs of opponents.

He got his start playing international basketball, but then came to the NBA and began his time with the Spurs.

That was when Ginobili took things to a whole other level and became one of the most exciting guards in the game.

Years later, people still talk about Ginobili and the way he played basketball.

Pierce faced off against so many icons of the game, but few left the impression that Ginobili did.

The post Paul Pierce Has High Praise For 1 Spurs Legend appeared first on The Cold Wire.

Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/paul-pierce-has-high-praise-for-1-spurs-legend/