Salim Stoudamire Now A Spur?

[duncan228]

Salim now a Spur (http://regulus2.azstarnet.com/blogs/hansen/11485/salim-now-a-spur)
09/21/2008
Greg Hansen

Salim Stoudamire has escaped pro basketball’s burial grounds — the Atlanta Hawks — and now will play for a winner.

The ex-Wildcat shooting star has signed with the San Antonio Spurs and is expected to replace the three-point shooting threat of Brent Barry and perhaps Robert Horry.

In three years with the dismal Hawks, Stoudamire averaged just 17 minutes per game and was often slowed by a chronic ankle injury. His career average is eight points per game.

Perhaps an organization as effective as the Spurs will change Stoudamire’s career path. Winning is contagious, right? Perhaps Salim’s rep as a clubhouse malcontent will change — it will probably have to change; he will have to adapt — as he becomes a role player on a team with superstars Tony Parker, Manu Ginobili and Tim Duncan.

If he does, Salim could spent another 10 years in the league as a Steve Kerr-type specialist and make millions of dollars.

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

Not a bad pickup. Very good shooter/scorer, but undersized.

I would say things don't look too good for George Hill.

[timvp]

Wow. Another high quality training camp invite. This Stoudamire isn't anything special but he's a lot better than the fodder the Spurs typically bring in.

He's basically a one-dimensional shooter who hasn't shot for very good percentages yet in the NBA. I'd compare him to a poor man's Jannero Pargo. Probably won't make the team but has a chance if he shoots lights out.




P.S.

Nice find :tu

[Bruno]

Thanks for the news.

I wonder what king of contract he has signed (guaranteed or not ?) and at what spots Spurs want to play him. He is a SG in a PG body.

If I had to bet on something, I would say that he got a partially guaranteed contract and will fight with Farmer, Green and maybe Hairston for a spot.

[oligarchy]

He played for Atlanta and didn't get playing time..

Spurs just locked up '09 with that steal.

[timvp]

Thanks for the news.

I wonder what king of contract he has signed (guaranteed or not ?) and at what spots Spurs want to play him. He is a SG in a PG body.

If I had to bet on something, I would say that he got a partially guaranteed contract and will fight with Farmer, Green and maybe Hairston for a spot.My guess would be $25-50K guaranteed. And he'll have to play point guard. Too short for shooting guard and doesn't have athleticism to make up for his height.

I'd say Stoudamire would have to beat out Hill or Vaughn to make the team.

[djohn14]

We swapped cousins...Damon for Salim.

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

You should have taken the word Salim out of the title.

I'm sure that would've gotten a lot more posts.

[ShoogarBear]

The E-N comes through with another scoop.

[duncan228]

The E-N comes through with another scoop.

So far, I can't find anything but this one piece on it. I looked before I posted it for other confirmation, but I wasn't surprised the E-N didn't have it. :lol

[boutons_]

Another bad ankle?

[Bruno]

When Spurs signed Watkins, Farmer and Green, the E-N article was shorter and with less in formations than Spurs' press release. :downspin:

[Bruno]

And he'll have to play point guard.

You want Stoudamire to play PG while he is even worst at passing than Garrity is at rebounding. :stirpot:

[Spurs Brazil]

This guy can shot.

Let's see what he can do in Training Camp

[ChuckD]

Salim is a gunner. I'd have felt better about this if he had actually shown outstanding NBA 3 point ability. He doesn't defend and he's really not any kind of PG. Long range shooting is really his only NBA skill, and it's lukewarm, at best. Not a bad TC invite, but I'd be shocked if he makes the club.

[timvp]

You want Stoudamire to play PG while he is even worst at passing than Garrity is at rebounding. :stirpot:I don't want him to play point guard -- that is the only position he can play without being a complete and total liability defensively.

The Spurs were obviously in the market for a scoring point guard. Too bad they couldn't get Juan Dixon to camp. I guess Stoudamire will have to do . . .

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

I don't want him to play point guard -- that is the only position he can play without being a complete and total liability defensively.

The Spurs were obviously in the market for a scoring point guard. Too bad they couldn't get Juan Dixon to camp. I guess Stoudamire will have to do . . .

Yea, I haven't figured out why Dixon hasn't been called up, or at least why it hasn't been known that they did. He's basically the same as Pargo and a taller version, more defensive Stoudamire. Last I heard, the Wizards were after him, but it doesn't make much sense why they would pick Salim over him. Unless of course this decision was solely based on the age factor.

[timvp]

Yea, I haven't figured out why Dixon hasn't been called up, or at least why it hasn't been known that they did. He's basically the same as Pargo and a taller version, more defensive Stoudamire. Last I heard, the Wizards were after him, but it doesn't make much sense why they would pick Salim over him.Dixon is probably holding out for guaranteed money. He might also have a Europe deal on the table.

[Spurs Brazil]

Born: 11/10/1982
Height: 6-1 / 1,85
Weight: 175 lbs. / 79,4 kg.
College: Arizona
Years Pro: 3

http://www.nba.com/media/act_salim_stoudamire.jpg

Season Team G GS MPG FG% 3p% FT% OFF DEF RPG APG SPG BPG TO PF PPG
07-08 ATL 35 0 11,5 0,361 0,341 0,820 0,1 0,6 0,7 0,8 0,2 0,1 0,60 1,00 5,7
Career 157 1 17,0 0,407 0,366 0,882 0,1 1,2 1,4 1,0 0,3 0,0 1,01 1,50 8,0

[Spurtacus]

Eh....

We'll see I guess.

[T Park]

Lose the attitude, be willing to ride IR, and he can stick.

Don't know if I'd rather have him on the team than Vaughn though.

[DMX7]

We swapped cousins...Damon for Salim.

Yeah, but he's better and much younger. First move of the offseason that I "like".

[TDMVPDPOY]

good signing

we need to get younger

[ChuckD]

I love the "love" that Salim is getting on his name alone. He hasn't shot lights out, plays no defense, and can't distribute, besides being undersized. Mason is better at everything than SS, and is 6'5" and people hated his signing. Good to know that the Spurs FO has their priorities straight even if their fans have their heads up their asses.

[lefty]

Stoudamire >>>> Stoudamire

[jjktkk]

I love the "love" that Salim is getting on his name alone. He hasn't shot lights out, plays no defense, and can't distribute, besides being undersized. Mason is better at everything than SS, and is 6'5" and people hated his signing. Good to know that the Spurs FO has their priorities straight even if their fans have their heads up their asses.

A change of scenery might just the thing Stoudamire needs. This is a low risk high reward deal. So Knickertroll don't hate on the Spurs just because your Knickerbockers are so sorry they couldn't win a game against a John
Hopkins intramural team. Worry about your own sorry, scrub of a team first.

[Tully365]

I don't like it, but I'm willing to sit tight and give him a chance to show that he can change. I watched him play a lot at Arizona, and he never won me over. I hope George Hill kicks his butt in camp.

[jdaveah]

Having been an Arizona student during his tenure and watched every basketball game he played in college, I am completely and totally biased in my opinion. He is the greatest shooter of all time and will lead the NBA in scoring this year.

[dbestpro]

The dude can flat out shoot. He averaged 50% from the three in his senior year. He has not gotten consistant minutes so you have to look at his points per minute which is pretty good at 1 point every 2.12 minutes.
For perspective Mason is at 2.60,
Ginobili is 1.89,
Parker is at 2.07,
Barry is at 2.75
Pargo is at 2.37
and is 6-1, same as Pargo

So you can say regardless of his minutes the kid is instant offense. With the way the Spurs struggle to score at times this kid could be just the ticket. Hill is going to spend the year in the NBDL anyway. Excellent signing.

[Tully365]

He shot 34.1% from 3PT land last year. That's not especially impressive coming from an undersized shooting specialist who doesn't play defense, pass, rebound, or have a great team attitude.

[Steve-O-Matic]

Much ado about nothing here.

[dbestpro]

He shot 36.1% in 402 minutes last year. That is actually damn good for somebody who is only given 11 minutes per game. I'd be damn happy if we could give him 11 minutes per game and get the same 5.7 ppg.

[tlongII]

He sucks, but he's still better than George Hill.

[timvp]

What's interesting to me is the Spurs seem to be dipping into the bad apples to get a few of these training camp invitees. Stoudamire has been known as a moody, selfish and self absorbed player throughout his career -- both in college and in the NBA. He's tried to improve his image but it's rare to find a teammate who genuinely liked him.

Same could be said for Desmon Farmer, although his problems have been more for being a ballhog. Neither one of these guys are the typical clean cut Spurs invitees.

[jdaveah]

It is very difficult to compare his Atlanta numbers when his game is based on getting open looks. He played inside out with Channing Frye in college to get his points. Tell me one thing that Steve Kerr can do that Salim cant.

[ducks]

spurs know they can not depend on mike for big minutes and expect anything from him in playoffs

they want to get someone to stick and help keep some minutes down
to mike and manu

[ducks]

duncan should help him get a good look at a three

[dbestpro]

What's interesting to me is the Spurs seem to be dipping into the bad apples to get a few of these training camp invitees. Stoudamire has been known as a moody, selfish and self absorbed player throughout his career -- both in college and in the NBA. He's tried to improve his image but it's rare to find a teammate who genuinely liked him.

Same could be said for Desmon Farmer, although his problems have been more for being a ballhog. Neither one of these guys are the typical clean cut Spurs invitees.

Agreed. Salim has got to know this may be his one special chance to make good on an NBA career and with the level of maturity on the Spurs he just might make the grade. I don't see Farmer with much of a chance to stick.

[Brox6]

I havent seen him played.:depressed

But I trust the Spurs FO..they know what they are doing...:downspin:

[ducks]

spurs need one player on the team that can get an attitude

they need someone to get mad

[Solid D]

Interesting signing. I was thinking Salim would end up in Europe.

[Tully365]

He shot 36.1% in 402 minutes last year. That is actually damn good for somebody who is only given 11 minutes per game. I'd be damn happy if we could give him 11 minutes per game and get the same 5.7 ppg.

Shooting 36% from the field is not very impressive under any circumstances. He got limited minutes on a sub .500 eastern conference team, put up a lot of shots and scored a little while shooting a mediocre percentage, while hardly contributing in any other way. Jacque Vaughn shot 42.8% FG and Roger Mason shot 44.3% last year. I don't see how he helps.

[bdictjames]

Im just glad some news has been received. I hope he makes the team, we need any shooting help we can get.

[Tully365]

Tell me one thing that Steve Kerr can do that Salim cant.

Be the all time leading 3pt% shooter in the history of the nba.

[tlongII]

smells like desperation

[cool hand]

now we're talkin'

[timtonymanu]

hopefully he's an upgrade over his cousin

[The Truth #6]

He may be the only vegan in the league. That should transition well in San Antonio.

[Avitus1]

Training camp has a ton of potential... hopefully it'll pay off in the end.

[Blackjack]

If the kid gets his head on straight he could fit nicely. I know two things from watching this kid play over the years... He's one hell of a shooter, and he's absolutely clutch.

You give him a low-post threat like Duncan, a motion offense where he doesn't need to be a pure point, a structured offense where he knows where/when his shots will come, and there's definitely a chance he could have a S.Kerr role. Again, it really all depends on where his head is but I like that they're giving him a shot.:tu

[bdictjames]

Seems like a potential Cuttino Mobley to me.

[baseline bum]

We haven't exactly had a lot of luck with Arizona since Elliott, unless you count Steve Kerr's 10 minutes in '03.

[kobyz]

he is exactly Eddie House tipe of player

[Streakyshooter08]

I this point I think he is an above average camp invite. Having him at the end of the bench would not hurt for sure. The only problem I see is that I don't know what type of role he could play. He is very undersized for a wing and is not good enough as a backup PG. It will be interesting to see how the team will look like at the beginning of the season.

[mountainballer]

I this point I think he is an above average camp invite. Having him at the end of the bench would not hurt for sure. The only problem I see is that I don't know what type of role he could play. He is very undersized for a wing and is not good enough as a backup PG. It will be interesting to see how the team will look like at the beginning of the season.

IMO he can only play alongside a bigger ball handler like Mason (or Manu when back), maybe also Hill, who should be able to defend some smaller SGs. maybe also as a pure shooter in a small ball line up alongside Tony and Manu?

[024]

stoudamire is a liability. he shoots low percentages, has no idea how to play the point, is an undersized 2 guard, plays mediocre defense at best, and has some attitude problems. i will admit that stoudamire has potential but so many things will have to go right before he becomes a solid backup pg. this only means the spurs may have lost all confidence in hill.

[manufor3]

You should have taken the word Salim out of the title.

I'm sure that would've gotten a lot more posts.

[Obstructed_View]

IMO he can only play alongside a bigger ball handler like Mason (or Manu when back), maybe also Hill, who should be able to defend some smaller SGs. maybe also as a pure shooter in a small ball line up alongside Tony and Manu?

I don't see any way he and Hill both make the team with Vaughn vertical.

[urunobili]

I don't see any way he and Hill both make the team with Vaughn vertical.

Hill may not leave the Toros the whole season...

[Obstructed_View]

Hill may not leave the Toros the whole season...

So then the chances of Stoudamire playing alongside Hill are slim. Re-read the post I responded to.

[MrChug]

YAY! That means we're only one Stoudamire away from a good one!!!!!!!!!!! :clap

[MrChug]

he is exactly Eddie House tipe of player

Well said, and he looks like him too.

[SenorSpur]

I this point I think he is an above average camp invite. Having him at the end of the bench would not hurt for sure. The only problem I see is that I don't know what type of role he could play. He is very undersized for a wing and is not good enough as a backup PG. It will be interesting to see how the team will look like at the beginning of the season.

That would be my concern too. Factor that in with his alleged "attitude" and ball hog tendencies and it sounds like he may be earmarked for permanent residence in the Pop doghouse - assuming he makes the team, of course.

[Streakyshooter08]

That would be my concern too. Factor that in with his alleged "attitude" and ball hog tendencies and it sounds like he may be earmarked for permanent residence in the Pop doghouse - assuming he makes the team, of course.

I agree. I still remember him having good scoring nights in limited playing time once in a while. If he could deal with the limited playing time, I could see him make the team and come in if the Spurs struggle to score. Scoring is what the Spurs need especially if Gino is out longer. If you figure out a way to hide him on the defensive end you get a decent scorer. I would be really cheap as well. I haven't seen enough Hawks games to really judge him as a player though. We'll see what happens.

[mountainballer]

That would be my concern too. Factor that in with his alleged "attitude" and ball hog tendencies and it sounds like he may be earmarked for permanent residence in the Pop doghouse - assuming he makes the team, of course.

that might be the trick. knowing that there is ALWAYS a player in Pop's doghouse they decided to sign Salim, who has great potential for that role.

[Bruno]

http://www.basketball-reference.com/boxscores/200703230ATL.html

[Bruno]

Salim Stoudamire is too good to be the traditional 4th string PG who is invited to camp only for practice with the team. Either Spurs have told him that Hill or Vaughn would be cut if he overplays them or they plan to use him as a SG.

[SenorSpur]

I'm willing to withhold comment until we see how Stoudamire pans out. A the same time, this signing is indicative of Pop's desparation to find scoring at the backup PG position. Makes one wonder how the hell he's endured JV the past 2 seasons.

Is it me or does it seems that like the backup PG position has seemingly regressed since Beno left? As much as I disliked Beno, he was good shooter and certainly not a bad chemistry fit. Of course, he simply couldn't bring the ball up court against pressure.

Now with them drafting Hill and signing Stoudamire, it's hard to figure just where Pop is going with the backup PG position. Seems like he's spinning his wheels.

[venitian navigator]

Frankly, I don't see what he can bring more or different than Mason...that's already the one that should replace Barry (with Hill replacing the "old" Stoudemire).
Imho the roles uncovered are, still, the "athletic" 3-4 and a real rebounding/shot blocking center...
So, if we decided to take a risk with some "potential issue" I don't understand why not try for a guy like, for example, D. Harrison...

[mountainballer]

it makes more sense if we count Mason as the backup PG and Salim as SG. considering that they tried to sign Pargo and reportedly talked to Dixon, this makes some sense. Mason as an oversized PG alongside an undersized shooting/scoring SG. Mason is more of a PG than either Pargo, Dixon or Stoudamire.

[Obstructed_View]

that might be the trick. knowing that there is ALWAYS a player in Pop's doghouse they decided to sign Salim, who has great potential for that role.

Hmmm. More PT for Bonner in the works, then? :wow

[venitian navigator]

So that's mean already the end of the Hill experiment and the relegation of Vaughn like third string with no chance of plaing time.....or that a trade is coming?

[Red Hawk #21]

You guys got Salim? Good luck, this guy used to piss me the hell off, he's a gunner, he can't play D, and he loves fadeway 3 pointers. Idk though maybe Pop can make him a better player but I hated that guy's shot selection. We'll see what happens.

PS I don't think he's a legit 6'1 either.

[SenorSpur]

I agree. I still remember him having good scoring nights in limited playing time once in a while. If he could deal with the limited playing time, I could see him make the team and come in if the Spurs struggle to score. Scoring is what the Spurs need especially if Gino is out longer. If you figure out a way to hide him on the defensive end you get a decent scorer. I would be really cheap as well. I haven't seen enough Hawks games to really judge him as a player though. We'll see what happens.

Haven't not watched many Hawks games, I don't know much about him. It does appear as though the dude can fill it up on occasion. However, it's gonna be really tough to hide an undersized SG.

[mountainballer]

Hmmm. More PT for Bonner in the works, then? :wow

scary...but yes. Spurs need his shooting to replace the shooting of Salim while he is in the doghouse.

[SenorSpur]

You guys got Salim? Good luck, this guy used to piss me the hell off, he's a gunner, he can't play D, and he loves fadeway 3 pointers. Idk though maybe Pop can make him a better player but I hated that guy's shot selection. We'll see what happens.

PS I don't think he's a legit 6'1 either.

Wow! This is a ringing indictment to the state of the backup PG situation. Could Pop really be that desparate? I truly don't know where he's going with this position.

[tav1]

If the Spurs are so desperate for a scoring point, I resubmit the notion of contacting Memphis. Memphis has an absolute log jam at point guard. There is no dream trade scenario here, it's rather mediocre, but no worse than Salim Stoudemire, because it probably must include taking back Darko Milicic.

Milicic contract expires in 2010, and might be a valuable trade piece in February of 2010. Anyway, the Spurs would have to do something like Matt Bonner, J. Vaughn and a sign and trade player (D. Johnson?) to Memphis for Milicic. And then in another deal get back either Crittenton or Lowry for the trade exception. That would save Memphis several million dollars.

I've given up on Milicic, but he is a decent shot blocker. Having his bloated contract next February could be good.

This of course assumes that Memphis would be willing to lose a point guard in a cash dump. I think they would.

[tonylongoriafan]

is anyone else wondering why we draft a point guard to beat out an older back up point guard and then sign another guy to fight for the position. i guess competition breads quality. but aren't we talking a player to play 15 minutes tops...i'd rather give our draft pick a shot at the spot, i guess he's not looking so good?

[SenorSpur]

If the Spurs are so desperate for a scoring point, I resubmit the notion of contacting Memphis. Memphis has an absolute log jam at point guard. There is no dream trade scenario here, it's rather mediocre, but no worse than Salim Stoudemire, because it probably must include taking back Darko Milicic.

Milicic contract expires in 2010, and might be a valuable trade piece in February of 2010. Anyway, the Spurs would have to do something like Matt Bonner, J. Vaughn and a sign and trade player (D. Johnson?) to Memphis for Milicic. And then in another deal get back either Crittenton or Lowry for the trade exception. That would save Memphis several million dollars.

I've given up on Milicic, but he is a decent shot blocker. Having his bloated contract next February could be good.

This of course assumes that Memphis would be willing to lose a point guard in a cash dump. I think they would.


I've brought up the Crittenton possibility before. From what I've read recently, he's still learning how to play the point and is very raw. Probably doesn't give Pop the scoring punch he's looking for.

[xtremesteven33]

i wanna be optomisitc about this signing but again i have my doubts.

lets just hope he doesnt end up like the other "shooting stoudemire"

[duncan228]

The opinions are starting to flow.

Salim Stoudamire, a New Spur, Helps More Than You Think (http://nba.fanhouse.com/2008/09/22/salim-stoudamire-a-new-spur-helps-more-than-you-think/)
Tom Ziller

The Arizona Daily Star reports Hawk bench buddy Salim Stoudamire has signed a deal to join the Spurs (via SLAM). I know, I know ... even Roger Mason is bored by this news. But hear me out: Salim can help the Spurs a ton.

The Spurs have been a team which relies on three things on offense: the post play of Tim Duncan, the slashing ability of Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili, and potent three-point shooting from a cast of role players. Historically, two of the three most important of those three-bombing role players have been Robert Horry and Brent Barry. Horry retired (or "was forced to retire because no one wants to pay him," if you want to get semantic). Barry plays for the Rockets. Bruce Bowen and Michael Finley remain, but turn 57 and 55 respectively* this year. Ime Udoka and Matt Bonner sit in the sidecar, but Gregg Popovich showed only mild levels of faith in them last year.

The one constant with Stoudamire: dude can shoot. Let's ignore last season, when he only totaled 400 minutes. Look at all seasons, college and pro, when he actually got a shot. Here are his three-point shooting percentages: 45% as a college freshman, 44% as a sophomore, 42% as a junior, 50% as a senior, 38% as a rookie, 36% as a second-year player. The league average is 36%, and the Spurs are accustomed to shooting slightly higher. Salim helps that, yes?

While Mason shot beautifully last season in D.C., his record indicates middling success from long range. Stoudamire shot poorly last season, but his record indicates strong aptitude for the longball. S.A. has made a brilliant hedge here: if Mason can't shoot appropriately well, and Pop needs some bench firepower for the guard position -- Bonner and Udoka aren't guards -- there is an option. He may not quite become Barry for a New Age, but there's an opportunity to hit some big, big shots here. Great move for everyone involved.

* On further review, Bowen actually only turns 37. Finley turns 35.

[Manufan909]

Assholes saying Bowen and Finley are in their fifties.:lmao

[tav1]

I've brought up the Crittenton possibility before. From what I've read recently, he's still learning how to play the point and is very raw. Probably doesn't give Pop the scoring punch he's looking for.

I think Crittenton can score just fine. Lowry is the better of the two players, and is extremely active defensively. He's just short and doesn't have consistent range. It's doubtful that either player is worth taking back Darko's deal, but it seems like the Spurs are intent on addressing their point guard situation. A combination of Lowry-Milicic would help the overall defense. In fact, Crittenton is not a terrible defender.

Another option is Sergio Rodriguez for the trade exception. The TE and 2nd round pick should be enough. Portland has no use for him any longer. They barely had use for him last season. Unlike the two Memphis players, I'm not sure Rodriguez would play under Pop because of his defensive short comings. But he's no worse than Salim.

I'll stop because everything I'm saying is retread discussion from last season. This is just to say that all these players are better than Salim Stoudemire, who, for a training camp invitee, is not bad, but he's not a solution either.

[loveforthegame]

Not a bad signing. A change of scenery might be what he needs.

I can't imagine he signed here as a camp invite with the possibility of beating out Vaughn or Hill.

[T Park]

his game reminds me of a lefty eddie house I'm sure I'm off base on that

[G-Nob]

This is a great pickup. Spurs fans are going to love this guy's touch. I actually wished the spurs would've drafted this guy over Ian. Now we have both and I think this is just the right piece we need.

[bigdog]

I like the signing alot, although I don't see him beating out Vaughn at all. It will be a battle between him and Hill. If Salim shoots good enough in training camp, it looks like Hill will be saying hello to Quin Snyder in Austin, or possibly go overseas, although I hope the Spurs don't make another mistake and let another player go overseas.

[VaSpursFan]

interesting signing. maybe pop envisions a backcourt of stoudamire and mason when TP and Finley sit. mason would be the PG and salim would be the SG on the offensive end and switch on D.

[Manufan909]

Yes, please. I'd like for Hill to be guarenteed, and Salim and Vaughn to battle over warming the bench. If he can't beat out JV, he doesn't deserve to have a job in SA this year.

[SenorSpur]

I think Crittenton can score just fine. Lowry is the better of the two players, and is extremely active defensively. He's just short and doesn't have consistent range. It's doubtful that either player is worth taking back Darko's deal, but it seems like the Spurs are intent on addressing their point guard situation. A combination of Lowry-Milicic would help the overall defense. In fact, Crittenton is not a terrible defender.



I think you're onto something. Wasn't Crittenton a scorer in high school? Either way, I've always liked his potential and upside. He's got quickness, good size and length. I think he would be a suitable answer.

[Aggie Hoopsfan]

Shrewd pickup. Hill is on the clock.

[HarlemHeat37]

I love the signing..he might as well get a shot..

we need offense..he's a solid spot-up shooter..if you haven't seen him play, he's the same type of player as Eddie House IMO, and Eddie was a big part for the Celtics in the finals..

[SenorSpur]

I love the signing..he might as well get a shot..

we need offense..he's a solid spot-up shooter..if you haven't seen him play, he's the same type of player as Eddie House IMO, and Eddie was a big part for the Celtics in the finals..

Hey, if he can fill it up, OK.

[The Truth #6]

I don't see how it's a bad pickup by itself. However, with the drafting of Hill, who's role is unclear if Vaughn is still on the team, there seems to be some major confusion going on in where we are headed. This already seems to indicate we wasted our 1st round draft pick once again. It may pay off down the road but we don't have a down the road.

[tp2021]

Hey, if he can fill it up, OK.

Is a part in Pavlov's Dog available?

[bigdog]

Yes, please. I'd like for Hill to be guarenteed, and Salim and Vaughn to battle over warming the bench. If he can't beat out JV, he doesn't deserve to have a job in SA this year.

If you're just hating on Vaughn because of his offense, then I understand, but JV is one of the smartest players in the league, and a very solid defender. I'd take him as the main backup point on any team over an unproven rookie.

[Tully365]

If Parker, Vaughn, Mason, and Hill were all injured yesterday falling down stairs, I'd still have reservations about Stoudamire.

People got pissed when Michael Finley resigned for peanuts, and called Mason's signing a disappointment but are optimistic about Salim?

Every scouting report on Salim says the same thing: he doesn't defend, he doesn't have a true position, doesn't pass, can't play the point, doesn't rebound... has one skill: shooting. Except, that skill was displayed in college, and has not shown itself in 3 NBA seasons. Google "Salim Stoudamire moody" or "Salim Stoudamire attitude problems" and you'll have a nice long reading session ahead of you. Salim's FG% is worse than those of Finley, Udoka, Mason, Manu, and Tony. His 3pt% is worse than Udoka, Finley, Mason, and Manu.

Matt Bonner is a better basketball player than Salim Stoudamire. By far.

[tp2021]

Matt Bonner is a better basketball player than Salim Stoudamire. By far.

Gingers and oranges, dude.

[SpurSupremacist]

I like the signing of Stoudamire. My question is, if they're bringing in a guy whose MO is being an asshole, why on EARTH would they not go HARD after Artest? Artest is everything this team needs. I don't give a SHIT about his attitude or psychotic tendencies. How'd that work out when Steve Jackson was on the squad? He's arguably crazier than Artest, he just doesn't get the press Artest does. Steve Jackson was also an asshole on frequent occasion, and <sarcasm>surprisingly</sarcasm>, they were still able to win an NBA championship.

Face it, Spurs front office are fuck-ups. All of their good eyes for talent and reason have gone to other teams. Popovich is an atrocity. I can't stand him or RC Failford. It's a damn good thing they have Tim Duncan, or else they'd be royally fucked.

[Mister Sinister]

I like the signing of Stoudamire. My question is, if they're bringing in a guy whose MO is being an asshole, why on EARTH would they not go HARD after Artest? Artest is everything this team needs. I don't give a SHIT about his attitude or psychotic tendencies. How'd that work out when Steve Jackson was on the squad? He's arguably crazier than Artest, he just doesn't get the press Artest does. Steve Jackson was also an asshole on frequent occasion, and <sarcasm>surprisingly</sarcasm>, they were still able to win an NBA championship.

Face it, Spurs front office are fuck-ups. All of their good eyes for talent and reason have gone to other teams. Popovich is an atrocity. I can't stand him or RC Failford. It's a damn good thing they have Tim Duncan, or else they'd be royally fucked.
BAWWW, Waaambulance, etc.

[Kori Ellis]

Face it, Spurs front office are fuck-ups. All of their good eyes for talent and reason have gone to other teams. Popovich is an atrocity. I can't stand him or RC Failford. It's a damn good thing they have Tim Duncan, or else they'd be royally fucked.


New user name. Same song and dance.

[JMarkJohns]

Salim could be very dangerous at PG with Manu running the show on offense. His defense isn't crap, as some have said. On those Arizona teams he was as good a defender as shooter at times. He needs some consistent intensity at that end, but that could improve with a more defined role within the team and more consistent minutes.

And no, he hasn't shot lights out yet, but really, how many open shots is he getting in Atlanta? They don't really have a low-post presense, and he didn't get near the minutes to take advantage of any PT he got with JJ driving and kicking out.

He was as good a pure shooter as the Pac-10 ever had, and was clutch as well, hitting HUGE game-tying/game-winning shots in every year he was in school, including several his senior year.

Give him some time and shots and I think he has the ability to surprise.

If his career PPG is 8 ppg (according to the article in the initial post) and his career MPG average is only 17 per (ditto), then that's not a bad ratio. His career 3point percentage is near 37% and with an increased amount of open shots, it wouldn't surprise me if he can surprise the way Jason Kapono did upon his return.

He can't run an offense, so he'll have to play backup PG with Manu running the offense, or play some SG alongside Parker with Duncan defending the rim.

Still, you need shooting and he can bring it. You need the ability to hit big shots and he can bring it.

[JMarkJohns]

his game reminds me of a lefty eddie house I'm sure I'm off base on that

Not really. A little more overall quickness, hops and defensive ability, a little less ability to run an offense, not that House is good, either.

[SenorSpur]

If Parker, Vaughn, Mason, and Hill were all injured yesterday falling down stairs, I'd still have reservations about Stoudamire.

People got pissed when Michael Finley resigned for peanuts, and called Mason's signing a disappointment but are optimistic about Salim?

Every scouting report on Salim says the same thing: he doesn't defend, he doesn't have a true position, doesn't pass, can't play the point, doesn't rebound... has one skill: shooting. Except, that skill was displayed in college, and has not shown itself in 3 NBA seasons. Google "Salim Stoudamire moody" or "Salim Stoudamire attitude problems" and you'll have a nice long reading session ahead of you. Salim's FG% is worse than those of Finley, Udoka, Mason, Manu, and Tony. His 3pt% is worse than Udoka, Finley, Mason, and Manu.

Matt Bonner is a better basketball player than Salim Stoudamire. By far.

If all this is true about Salim, it is very disturbing to say the least. One would be inclined to ask "what is Pop doing?" Again, Beno had his faults, but he wasn't that bad.

[tp2021]

Again, Beno had his faults, but he wasn't that bad.

As in, he wasn't all bad, or he isn't as bad as Stoudamire?

[beachwood]

Hell yeah. Go Slim!!!

[ChumpDumper]

Might as well take a chance.

Don't have to keep him if it doesn't work out.

[beachwood]

Having been an Arizona student during his tenure and watched every basketball game he played in college, I am completely and totally biased in my opinion. He is the greatest shooter of all time and will lead the NBA in scoring this year.

I completely agree with you. And as an Zona fan myself, I'm 100% biased as well. Slim is the greatest shooter of all time. Every shot he ever put up I expected to go in and was shocked if it didn't.

[SenorSpur]

As in, he wasn't all bad, or he isn't as bad as Stoudamire?

Don't get me wrong. Beno was bad. Probably not as bad as Stoudamire - assuming the detractor comments are true.

[Tully365]

I'm 100% biased


So how can your opinion be taken seriously? Maybe the Spurs should sign Khalid Reeves. too?

[Obstructed_View]

Three point shooter that can't play defense? Sounds like a decent Barry replacement. At least we know he won't pass up open threes like Barry did.

[JMarkJohns]

So how can your opinion be taken seriously? Maybe the Spurs should sign Khalid Reeves. too?

You hardly seem the ojectionable type, as you've stated he's never proven a capable NBA shooter, ignoring that he's shot League Average or better from range two of his first three years, despite limited minutes, touches and being on a completely shitty team with an undefined role.

You ignore his points-per-minute production.

You've conveniently left out that he's even had a few game-winning shots with the Hawks, backing up his clutch ability in college.

You've overstated his inability to defend. If he's at SG, then of course he'll struggle, but if he's defending the PG position, he is about average. if he plays it with Manu running the offense, then there's zero reason he can't be a quality defender.

While true that he's not a PG, nor a good rebounder, the former was known by the Spurs execs and they determined him a prospect with potential for the roster anyways, and the latter is that he's a player who hangs around the perimeter, so who cares?

He's proven an ability to score from deep and hit big shots. Truth be told, that's something San Antonio needs amidst Barry and possibly Horry's departure.

You make him out to be trash. He has attitude issues, but he was an integral part of some very successful UA teams, so obviously he can work past them.

[xtremesteven33]

funny how most people like this idea of Salim with the Spurs but rejected the thought of a trade for JJ Reddick.

JJ Reddick > Salim Stoudamire

[HarlemHeat37]

I wasn't really around when Mason got signed..why did anybody dislike it? the guy is a solid player, a hard worker and a class act..he's instant offense..every Wizards fan told me the same thing about him..his numbers without Gilbert were as good as it gets for a role playing scorer, and that's without a Tim Duncan, a TP and a Ginobili playing with him..

this is typical hate though..our fanbase is too spoiled..we think everybody is supposed to be the next Parker or Ginobili, forgetting that these 2 guys have become stars..spoiled by Bowen and Horry, who are arguably the 2 best role players of this generation..not everybody can fill these roles to perfection..

I guarantee Mason isn't going to disappoint..

[HarlemHeat37]

as for Stoudamire..even if he's signed, he's going to be DEEP in the rotation..he's going to be used for specific situations, like when we're in DESPERATE need for scoring, or if we need some shooting on the floor..he wouldn't be a regular..

[ChumpDumper]

funny how most people like this idea of Salim with the Spurs but rejected the thought of a trade for JJ Reddick.

JJ Reddick > Salim StoudamireNeither is worth trading for.

[JMarkJohns]

JJ Reddick > Salim Stoudamire

Prove it!

[Tully365]

You hardly seem the ojectionable type, as you've stated he's never proven a capable NBA shooter, ignoring that he's shot League Average or better from range two of his first three years, despite limited minutes, touches and being on a completely shitty team with an undefined role.

You ignore his points-per-minute production.

You've conveniently left out that he's even had a few game-winning shots with the Hawks, backing up his clutch ability in college.

You've overstated his inability to defend. If he's at SG, then of course he'll struggle, but if he's defending the PG position, he is about average. if he plays it with Manu running the offense, then there's zero reason he can't be a quality defender.

While true that he's not a PG, nor a good rebounder, the former was known by the Spurs execs and they determined him a prospect with potential for the roster anyways, and the latter is that he's a player who hangs around the perimeter, so who cares?

He's proven an ability to score from deep and hit big shots. Truth be told, that's something San Antonio needs amidst Barry and possibly Horry's departure.

You make him out to be trash. He has attitude issues, but he was an integral part of some very successful UA teams, so obviously he can work past them.

I'd say league average shooting percentage is fine for a multi-dimensional player, but for a guy who is relatively one dimensional, it's hard to accept just average shooting percentages. For me points per minutes is an interesting stat if the percentages are good, but otherwise I think it just means that he's taking too many shots in his limited court time.

It just surprises me that so many other players have been hammered in these forums and now a guy not known for defense, team play, or good attitude-- the so-called Spur attributes-- is getting what seems like a free pass. If the guy improves and makes the team, I'll congratulate him. But if Vegas has odds on it, I'd be willing to lay down some money that he won't.

I lived in Tucson when he played at UA, and he was in trouble with Lute Olson almost constantly, and was not in my opinion a very good teammate. The thing I remember most about him was his unbelievably bad body language on the court every time he missed a shot. Think Malik Rose x 10 and that's Salim-- and that's a trait that I just don't think Pop could tolerate.

[AA2120]

swweettt..
i was kinda bummed when we didnt draft him..but he's here now!

[JMarkJohns]

I'd say league average shooting percentage is fine for a multi-dimensional player, but for a guy who is relatively one dimensional, it's hard to accept just average shooting percentages. For me points per minutes is an interesting stat if the percentages are good, but otherwise I think it just means that he's taking too many shots in his limited court time.

It just surprises me that so many other players have been hammered in these forums and now a guy not known for defense, team play, or good attitude-- the so-called Spur attributes-- is getting what seems like a free pass. If the guy improves and makes the team, I'll congratulate him. But if Vegas has odds on it, I'd be willing to lay down some money that he won't.

I lived in Tucson when he played at UA, and he was in trouble with Lute Olson almost constantly, and was not in my opinion a very good teammate. The thing I remember most about him was his unbelievably bad body language on the court every time he missed a shot. Think Malik Rose x 10 and that's Salim-- and that's a trait that I just don't think Pop could tolerate.

I can accept that. Still, I'd take a 36% 3-point shooter who's reletively young, can score and has proven both clutch and able to shoot even better.

[I. Hustle]

I wanted him in the draft so this is actually cool.

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

funny how most people like this idea of Salim with the Spurs but rejected the thought of a trade for JJ Reddick.

JJ Reddick > Salim Stoudamire

Redick is a piece of shit. One of the worst players in the league.

Salim >>>> JJ.

[tp2021]

Fits the MO of the Spurs buying low. If only they also sold high.

[Sissiborgo]

I like that dude....

[beachwood]

Redick is a piece of shit. One of the worst players in the league.

Salim >>>> JJ.

Excellent. I think that about sums up the Salim/JJ debate.

I'm stoked Salim is a Spur. He was an excellent player at UA and hopefully he can reach his potential under Pop.

[jiggy_55]

I'm new here guys :).

Well, i think this is not such a bad signing. He could definitely help us with scoring, he's a good shooter. I know Salim's contract is prob not guaranteed and George Hill has not officially signed a contract with us yet, but what does this mean for George Hill now?

[tp2021]

Yesterday Damon, today Salim, tommorow.....

[ChuckD]

he is exactly Eddie House tipe of player

Minus one ring, a 50 pt game on his resume, and smokin' NBA 3 point shooting, exactly.

:lol

[lefty]

So, the every 2 year prophecy will happen again

2009 is ours

[Mr. Body]

You'd need a magnifying glass to see this guy on the court.

[lefty]

You'd need a magnifying glass to see this guy on the court.

Mugsy Bogues ?

[Manufan909]

Typical weel-thought Mr. Body post.

[ChuckD]

What is Pop thinking? He's thinking "Gee, I probably need someone in roster spots 13-15".

That's what Pop is thinking.

[Mr. Body]

Typical weel-thought Mr. Body post.

He's small, is my point. Also, he hits shots. That's about it.

[ShoogarBear]

YAY! That means we're only one Stoudamire away from a good one!!!!!!!!!!! :clap

:lol

[ShoogarBear]

In related news, the Spurs have invited Jerome James and Mike James to training camp.

[angelbelow]

hopefully this is another one of those underrated moves..

[SpurSupremacist]

I'm stoked Salim is a Spur. He was an excellent player at UA and hopefully he can reach his potential under Pop.

I laughed. I laughed hard.

[SKINNYPIMP210]

www.theblowtorch.blogspot.com/2008/09/salim-stoudamires-first-press.html

Can someone post what this blog says? I googled Salim Stoudamire and this came up as his first press conferance (since joining the Spurs). However, since I'm using a government computer they wont let me look at this website...:bang I'd appreciate it! :flag:

[SpurSupremacist]

www.theblowtorch.blogspot.com/2008/09/salim-stoudamires-first-press.html (http://www.theblowtorch.blogspot.com/2008/09/salim-stoudamires-first-press.html)

Can someone post what this blog says? I googled Salim Stoudamire and this came up as his first press conferance (since joining the Spurs). However, since I'm using a government computer they wont let me look at this website...:bang I'd appreciate it! :flag:


If you're serious, it's more or less a site that is making fun of him -- pointing out that he is a ballhog.

[SKINNYPIMP210]

If you're serious, it's more or less a site that is making fun of him -- pointing out that he is a ballhog.

Yeah I'm deployed right now so I don't get the regular internet.

So that's all it was? Lol sounds kind of funny. But I do like Salim though, I think its a good pick up for the Spurs. He is one hell of a shooter!!!

[duncan228]

In related news, the Spurs have invited Jerome James and Mike James to training camp.

:lol

Can we get Scott Duncan too? Is the relative connection enough or does he actually have to play ball?

[duncan228]

A Happy New Home for Salim Stoudamire (http://myespn.go.com/blogs/truehoop/0-34-101/A-Happy-New-Home-for-Salim-Stoudamire.html)
Henry Abbott

Salim Stoudamire had every opportunity to become a very typical NBA story. Arrives with high expectations, some NBA-ready skills, and that word "potential."

Then, after three seasons, he had never really made himself into an essential part of a team, even though his Hawks' rosters were hardly overloaded.

Guys like that often wash away into distant memory.

But he's a sincere guy, and someone people like to root for, so I think a lot of people will be happy to read his latest conversation with Sekou Smith of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution (http://www.ajc.com/blogs/content/shared-blogs/ajc/hawks/entries/2008/09/23/clarity.html).

Smith says Stoudamire looks like a new, much happier man.

And Stoudamire, with a new team and a new attitude, could hardly have landed in a better place.


After waiting all summer to find a new home the former Hawks reserve guard has found one in San Antonio with the Spurs. He signed a two-year deal with the Western Conference power and moves into a place where there is a glaring need for some scoring punch off the bench.

"They invited me out there three times and let me know they were interested," Stoudamire said. "They wanted to see how I could fit in with their guys. They knew I was talented but they wanted to see if they could incorporate that into their system. Then [three] days ago Gregg Popovich called me and told me how much he wanted me to come to San Antonio and we came to an agreement and that's how I got there."

After three tumultuous and disappointing seasons with the Hawks (he played in 61 games in each of his first two seasons but managed to make appearances in just 35 last year), Stoudamire knows his position in the league is tenuous, at best, right now. That's why he isn't taking anything for granted.

"This is definitely my second chance and it might be my last chance," Stoudamire said. "But I know how to turn negatives into a positive. After these three years in Atlanta I can say that I've finally become a man. Being in a situation where I wasn't playing, it humbled me. It made me appreciate just being in the NBA a lot more. It made me work a lot harder and realize that this is a blessing. There are only 400 and something guys in the NBA and billions of people in the world. So once you take that into account, your focus is there, your clarity is there and you can move forward."

[xtremesteven33]

good article....i hope he really means what he says and we have found a diamond in the rough

[Streakyshooter08]

Good read. It is interesting that Pop really wants him so he probably has a "plan" how to use him. I wonder what kind of contract he signed but it definetly sounds like he will get his chance.

[duncan228]

The E-N catches up.

Jeff McDonald: Spurs to sign other Stoudamire, other Stoudamire says (http://blogs.mysanantonio.com/weblogs/courtside/archives/2008/09/jeff_mcdonald_s_14.html)

When the 2008 playoffs ended, the Spurs bid farewell to one Stoudamire. It appears they are now poised to wave hello to another.

Salim Stoudamire told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution that he has reached a two-year deal that would bring him to San Antonio.

"Gregg Popovich called me and told me how much he wanted me to come to San Antonio, and we came to an agreement," Stoudamire tells the newspaper in Tuesday's editions.

Stoudamire, a 25-year-old guard who spent each of his three NBA seasons with the Hawks, is poised to pick up his career where a relative's left off. Damon Stoudamire, Salim's older cousin by nine years, played in 31 games for the Spurs last season after arriving via mid-season free-agent signing.

The Spurs have yet to officially announce their deal with Salim Stoudamire.

The younger Stoudamire would look to fill a similiar role the Spurs had hoped his older cousin would: Namely, supplying a scoring spark off the bench.

Scouts have described Salim, at 6-foot-1, as a shooting guard in a point guard's body. His best season came as a rookie with Atlanta in 2005-06, in which he averaged 9.7 points in 61 games.

[Manufan909]

Thats going to be awkward at thanksgiving and christmas.

[tp2021]

Good read. It is interesting that Pop really wants him so he probably has a "plan" how to use him. I wonder what kind of contract he signed but it definetly sounds like he will get his chance.

Well, Pop also raved about Hill when he was drafted, and we have yet to see how that goes...

[Spurs Brazil]

The way Salim is saying I think at least the 1st year is guaranteed

[Solid D]

Updated from duncan228's posting. It seems Jeff McDonald went to work and actually called Salim. :tu Let's hope Jeff can become more proactive at investigative reporting and be known as a very good beat writer some day.

http://blogs.mysanantonio.com/weblogs/courtside/archives/2008/09/jeff_mcdonald_s_14.html

September 23, 2008
Jeff McDonald: Spurs to sign other Stoudamire, other Stoudamire says (NOW WITH UPDATES)
When the 2008 playoffs ended, the Spurs bid farewell to one Stoudamire. It appears they are now poised to wave hello to another.

Salim Stoudamire told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution that he has reached a two-year deal that would bring him to San Antonio. The second year of that contract is believed to be at the Spurs' option.

"Gregg Popovich called me and told me how much he wanted me to come to San Antonio, and we came to an agreement," Stoudamire tells the newspaper in Tuesday's editions.

Stoudamire, a 25-year-old guard who spent each of his three NBA seasons with the Hawks, is poised to pick up his career where a relative's left off. Damon Stoudamire, Salim's older cousin by nine years, played in 31 games for the Spurs last season after arriving via mid-season free-agent signing.

The Spurs have yet to officially announce their deal with Salim Stoudamire.

The younger Stoudamire would look to fill a similiar role the Spurs had hoped his older cousin would: Namely, supplying a scoring spark off the bench.

Scouts have described Salim, at 6-foot-1, as a shooting guard in a point guard's body. His best season came as a rookie with Atlanta in 2005-06, in which he averaged 9.7 points in 61 games.

UPDATE: Just got off the phone with Salim, who is in Atlanta preparing for a flight to San Antonio later this afternoon. He confirmed what he told the Atlanta paper, and re-iterated his excitement about trying to revive his career in South Texas.

"It's a second chance and maybe a last chance," Stoudamire said. "I'm fully engulfed in that reality. I understand was the circumstances are, and I can't wait for the season to start."

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

The way Salim is saying I think at least the 1st year is guaranteed

Yep, I hope so.

[xellos88330]

Haven't watched much of Salim Stoudamire, so I have no idea. However, about this...


In related news, the Spurs have invited Jerome James and Mike James to training camp.

I do not like Jerome James at all. "I give him no respect... NONE!!!". :p:

[Buddy Holly]

I do not like Jerome James at all. "I give him no respect... NONE!!!". :p:

xellos, thus a joke.

[xellos88330]

xellos, thus a joke.

Oh. :rollin My bad.

[SenorSpur]

Let's hope Pop can hide him defensively. A practice that Pop should be good at, having Finley on the team.

[timvp]

If Stoudamire is in line to actually make the team, I think that one of Vaughn or Hill will be let go. Forced to guess, I'd say Vaughn is bye bye. It'd be surprising but I saw a significant dip in Pop's trust of Vaughn last year so I wouldn't be too shocked.

We'll see though ... it is weird that another day passes with no official signing of Hill.

[Bruno]

Stoudamire is saying the right things and seems to come with the right state of mind. I hope we will know soon if he has a guaranteed contract or not.

I'm also damn tired of Spurs' offseason. It's just a succession of crazy and without a sense events. it's time for the dust to settle.

[Spurs Brazil]

If Salim deal is really guaranteed, we have 13 players under contract.

Hill and Hairston unsigned

4 players with training camp invites (Watkins, Tolliver, Farmer and Green)

Hill situation is very strange.

[The Truth #6]

With Hill also signed I would think Vaughn is out the door. They could let everyone battle it out in training camp to prove themselves. That would be the smart thing to do. But the Spurs are usually pretty classy in how they deal with players, especially, I would think, someone they know as well as Vaughn, so if they don't want to keep him I would think they would let him know ahead of time so he can try to land somewhere else, which is assuming anyone else actually would want him.

Or, maybe they know no one else wants him at all so this is Vaughn's chance to try and outshine Hill to keep a spot in the league. Having said that, I can't see Vaughn somehow improving. We'll see what happens next...

[Tully365]

With Hill also signed I would think Vaughn is out the door. They could let everyone battle it out in training camp to prove themselves. That would be the smart thing to do. But the Spurs are usually pretty classy in how they deal with players, especially, I would think, someone they know as well as Vaughn, so if they don't want to keep him I would think they would let him know ahead of time so he can try to land somewhere else, which is assuming anyone else actually would want him.

Or, maybe they know no one else wants him at all so this is Vaughn's chance to try and outshine Hill to keep a spot in the league. Having said that, I can't see Vaughn somehow improving. We'll see what happens next...

Maybe Vaughn becomes an asst coach, specializing in defense for point guards...

[SenorSpur]

With Hill also signed I would think Vaughn is out the door.

Knowing the way Pop feels about his veterans - especially Vaughn - I just can't get there. I'll believe it when I see it.

[Blackjack]

Jeff McDonald: Spurs to sign other Stoudamire, other Stoudamire says
(NOW WITH UPDATES)

When the 2008 playoffs ended, the Spurs bid farewell to one Stoudamire. It appears they are now poised to wave hello to another.

Salim Stoudamire told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution that he has reached a two-year deal that would bring him to San Antonio. Neither year is fully guaranteed.

"Gregg Popovich called me and told me how much he wanted me to come to San Antonio, and we came to an agreement," Stoudamire tells the newspaper in Tuesday's editions.

Stoudamire, a 25-year-old guard who spent each of his three NBA seasons with the Hawks, is poised to pick up his career where a relative's left off. Damon Stoudamire, Salim's older cousin by nine years, played in 31 games for the Spurs last season after arriving via mid-season free-agent signing.

The Spurs have yet to officially announce their deal with Salim Stoudamire.

The younger Stoudamire would look to fill a similiar role the Spurs had hoped his older cousin would: Namely, supplying a scoring spark off the bench.

Scouts have described Salim, at 6-foot-1, as a shooting guard in a point guard's body. His best season came as a rookie with Atlanta in 2005-06, in which he averaged 9.7 points in 61 games.

UPDATE: Just got off the phone with Salim, who is in Atlanta preparing for a flight to San Antonio later this afternoon. He confirmed what he told the Atlanta paper, and re-iterated his excitement about trying to revive his career in South Texas.

"It's a second chance and maybe a last chance," Stoudamire said. "I'm fully engulfed in that reality. I understand was the circumstances are, and I can't wait for the season to start."

blogs.mysanantonio.com/weblogs/courtside/archives/2008/09/jeff_mcdonald_s_14.html

[T Park]

The guy can play. Hes shown from time to time to be an "instant offense " type of guy.

[T Park]

funny how most people like this idea of Salim with the Spurs but rejected the thought of a trade for JJ Reddick.

JJ Reddick > Salim Stoudamire

Reddick is a freaking stiff are you kidding me?

[T Park]

Not really. A little more overall quickness, hops and defensive ability, a little less ability to run an offense, not that House is good, either.

More defensive ability but the ability to shoot like Eddie House?

I'll take it. He knows hes gonna have to bust his ass on defense thats a given.


I like this signing the more time goes by.

[lurker23]

Salim Stoudamire told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution that he has reached a two-year deal that would bring him to San Antonio. Neither year is fully guaranteed.

If true, that will make training camp interesting. Salim will have to show that he'll be of a benefit to this team, by earning minutes at either the 1 or the 2. I think that means he will have to outperform either Jacque Vaughn or Michael Finley in preseason. Just outperforming George Hill (and not Vaughn) won't do it, because the Spurs can easily keep Vaughn as backup point and send Hill to Austin. And outperforming Roger Mason for stretches won't do it either, because I feel Mason has a guaranteed spot on the 12-man roster. (Although, maybe Finley does too, and I'm just in denial... :depressed )

[holcs50]

well i saw salim play just about every college game he was in at UofA. He's my favorite wildcat i saw over the years which is saying a lot, simply for the reason whenever he would rise up to stroke the 3 everyone got on their feet because seriously everyone expected the shot was going in-it was a shock if it didn't drop. I think his problem in the nba has been his height and never getting a comfortable rhythm. In ATL he had to create more shots for himself-but in SA he'll be able to get the pass out from TD and when he has an open set shot-watchout-no joke. As for his D-lots think he can't defend-but he was a nasty little defender (can snake a lot of steals)...when he wanted to be-he had some attitude problems and didn't always give it his all and would get down if he missed a few shots. But, he knows whats at stake now and pop will make sure he plays d. This could turn out to be big, but he does need some decent pT to get into his rhythm, if he gets that seriously 3's will reign...best 3 shooter ive ever seen by far-at least college wise...and he is clutch, made some huge shots in the NCAA tourney

[Spurtacus]

Does he know how to play D?

[traitoravery]

iAmj1IPYBAI

[dastrey]

He has the potential to be a better version of Eddie House. He was money in college.

[holcs50]

Does he know how to play D?

yes he does, it just wasn't always his motivation in college if you know what i mean. Lute would often put him on the other teams best PG or SG and have him full court press him-or at least half court him as soon as the ball crossed. When he was motivated to D up he was a good defender. I think with pop on his ass, and knowing this could be a last shot, he will D up i guarantee it. Just his height will hurt-he won't be able to guard the 6'6 SG effectively-but i saw him guard guys up to 6'3 pretty good in college. We'll see, i have confidence in him though.

[Obstructed_View]

if he gets that seriously 3's will reign...best 3 shooter ive ever seen by far-at least college wise

If he can translate that into hitting a good percentage of jumpers from any distance, even if they aren't all threes, he becomes very valuable to a team that had trouble generating offense from anywhere outside the paint.

[Spurs Brazil]

http://www.mysanantonio.com/sports/spurs/Spurs_reach_agreement_with_another_Stoudamire_sign _Hill.html

Spurs reach agreement with another Stoudamire, sign Hill

Jeff McDonald - Express-News More so than most NBA players, Salim Stoudamire had extra incentive to watch the Spurs last season.

With his older cousin Damon on the roster, Stoudamire rarely missed an opportunity to check in on family.

Eventually, Stoudamire saw enough of the Spurs to notice what Gregg Popovich noticed at times.

“It seemed like they'd be going good,” Stoudamire said, “and then they'd go through a scoring drought here or there.”

In the season to come, Stoudamire hopes to be a part of the solution to that perceived problem.

Stoudamire, a 6-foot-1 backup guard who spent the first three seasons of his career in Atlanta, confirmed Tuesday that he has reached an agreement to join the Spurs as an unrestricted free agent.

The financial terms of the contract, which Stoudamire has not yet officially signed, were not immediately available. The deal is believed to keep Stoudamire under contract for a maximum of two seasons, neither of which are fully guaranteed unless he makes the roster.

Should he do so, Stoudamire would compete for time behind Tony Parker at point guard — just as his older cousin did after arriving from Memphis at midseason last year.

Still young enough at age 25, Stoudamire hopes to make the most of that opportunity and revive a career that had stalled in Atlanta. To him, the Spurs do not represent just a second chance.

“It's a second chance and maybe the last chance,” Stoudamire said by phone Tuesday from Atlanta, where he was making last-minute preparations for an afternoon flight to the Alamo City. “I'm fully engulfed in that reality. I understand what the circumstances are, and I can't wait for the season to start.”

There is a bit of irony to Stoudamire's impending arrival. There is a roster spot for him here, in part, because the Spurs declined to re-sign his older cousin.

The younger Stoudamire comes to San Antonio in the wake of a tumultuous final season in Atlanta, when he found himself frequently in coach Mike Woodson's doghouse and played in a career-low 35 games.

He averaged just 11.7 minutes per game last season but managed to average 5.7 points per contest. Throughout his career, Stoudamire has averaged 17 points per every 36 minutes played.

It is that propensity for instant offense that ought to make Stoudamire intriguing to the Spurs.

“That's my specialty,” Stoudamire said. “That's something I hope to provide.”

Beginning with the start of training camp Sept. 30, the Spurs' second Stoudamire ought to have plenty of chances to provide it.

Spurs ink Hill: In other backup point guard news, the Spurs signed first-round pick George Hill on Tuesday.

“I knew it was going to happen,” said Hill, who played with the Spurs' summer-league entry and has been working out in San Antonio since mid-August. “They were just getting all their free agents and stuff in order first. They told me just to be patient, and I was.”

Hill, the 26th choice overall out of IUPUI, will earn a rookie scale contract prescribed by the NBA's collective bargaining agreement. His first two years are guaranteed — at $1.22 million and $1.31 million — while the team retains options for 2010-11 and 2011-12.

[Spurs Brazil]

Spurs Sign Salim Stoudamire


SAN ANTONIO – The San Antonio Spurs announced today that they have signed guard Salim Stoudamire. Per team policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Stoudamire, 6-1, 175 lbs., has spent his entire three-year NBA career with the Atlanta Hawks. Last year he appeared in 35 games, averaging 5.7 points in 11.5 minutes. He scored in double figures in nine games including a season-high 18 points vs. Golden State on 2/22. Stoudamire enjoyed his best season in 2005-06 when he played in 61 games, averaging 9.7 points, 1.9 rebounds and 1.2 assists in 20.3 minutes. For his career, he has appeared in 157 games, averaging 8.0 points, 1.4 rebounds and 1.0 assists in 17.0 minutes per game.

Originally selected by Atlanta with the 31st pick in the 2005 NBA Draft, Stoudamire played four seasons at the University of Arizona where he played in 129 games, averaging 15.2 points, 2.2 rebounds and 2.0 assists. Stoudamire finished his collegiate career in ninth place in NCAA history in career three-point field goal percentage (.458, 342-747) and tied for 18th in career three-point field goals made. As a senior he led the nation in three-point shooting (.504, 120-238) and ranked fourth nationally in free throw percentage (.910, 122-134).

http://www.nba.com/spurs/news/salim_stoudamire_signed_080924.html

[AC#21_TD ERA]

Well I’m back. Special thanks to Kori, Timvp and the other workers at spurstalk for giving me another opportunity.

Now about the Stoudamire signing. Great signing I hope the contract is guaranteed and he makes the team. He can really light it up. He would have got drafted earlier if it wasn't for his attitude but I think he's a lot matured now with the things he’s been saying.

I just hope he's given a chance and not pulled out of the rotation for making a mistake on Defense etc, this signing could go down as a massive steal if he get's consistent playing time.

[Big P]

I like this signing..if it doesn't work out we cut him, no big deal..on the other hand, if it works out, he could be part of the solution to those nasty scoring droughts we would go thru..dude doesn't look afraid to shoot the ball, which was one of my biggest knocks on Barry( & I loved the guy as a Spur), Barry would pass up SOOO many 3 pointers or shots in general, I never understood that, Pop even publicly said he had the green light to shoot...basically if it works out its a minimal riks replacement for Barry. Good move FO. Lets make one more move.

[Sissiborgo]

If thats right then we are in good hands....Good pickup...:toast