Ike Diogu agrees to 1 year w/Spurs

[bklynspursfan]

drew_48moh Andrew A. McNeill
For those wondering, Diogu is 6'9", so he's still not a shot-blocking presence. At best, he's a fifth big.

Holy crap. Awesome. RT @sam_amick: Forward Ike Diogu has agreed to a one-year deal with San Antonio, a source tells

[bus driver]

who?

[ChumpDumper]

Underwhelming, but any FA signing would have been.

Glad they did something.

[mexicanjunior]

Meh...would be cool if he came in to replace Duncan and the tank went full swing but I doubt that is the case...

[bklynspursfan]

who?

lol.. that's what I said... Apparently a big guy who can't shoot. (not that we need that) 6'9 250.. Pretty big guy. Never had a whole lot of PT... Nothing jumps out at me.....

http://espn.go.com/nba/player/_/id/2750/ike-diogu

[Sausage]

I remember Spurs fans on this board wanting him a season or two ago.. good signing I suppose..

[Josepatches_]

He looks good some games last year with Clippers.

I'll take him over Bonner. I only hope he doesn't get Tiago's minutes.

[Libri]

Is this an emergency signing?

[stephen jackson]

He looks good some games last year with Clippers.

I'll take him over Bonner. I only hope he doesn't get Tiago's minutes.
exactlyhopefully this mean much less bonner

[DPG21920]

At least they did something. They really needed another big.

[spurspokesman]

drew_48moh Andrew A. McNeill
For those wondering, Diogu is 6'9", so he's still not a shot-blocking presence. At best, he's a fifth big.

Holy crap. Awesome. RT @sam_amick: Forward Ike Diogu has agreed to a one-year deal with San Antonio, a source tells

He had 4 rebs just a game ago. Ill take him lmao. Anything that can outdo bonner will do. SHEESH. Something new to talk about.

[jeebus]

exactlyhopefully this mean much less bonner

Hah I wish. Tiago is heading back to the bench :depressed

[Libri]

Underwhelming, but any FA signing would have been.

Glad they did something.

But he's a former lottery pick. :smokin

[underdawg]

fSkiQKmyRa8

[ElNono]

8 teams in 6 years... oh well, let's hope he can bring something to the table...

[Bruno]

I was hoping more for a center but it's still better than nothing. The extra depth won't be a luxury.

We will see if Pop has signed him strictly as a 5th big or if he will give him a shot to take Bonner's minutes.

[timvp]

I wanted the Spurs to sign a vet big like Przybilla. But that was before Ginobili's injury. Now the Spurs could use scoring and need to take a gamble on a big with some upside. With that in mind, Diogu is a really good choice. He can score and seems to still have a decent amount of upside.

Good job :tu

[lmbebo]

6 more fouls. Will probably give them all in the limited mins he plays.

[Spur|n|Austin]

Dejuan's new Whataburger buddy.

[DPG21920]

My impressions from watching him play in limited time is to think of himlike a bigger Blair but shift Blair's rebounding potential to offensive potential.

[jjktkk]

I wanted the Spurs to sign a vet big like Przybilla. But that was before Ginobili's injury. Now the Spurs could use scoring and need to take a gamble on a big with some upside. With that in mind, Diogu is a really good choice. He can score and seems to still have a decent amount of upside.

Good job :tu

Thats important imo. Diogu, why obviously not a dominant scorer down low, is a post threat, and since Splitter has shown so that he can defend the rim, along with Duncan, having a low post threat helps the Spurs fronline, albeit, signing another bigman vet for ex, Przybilla, would be help as well.

[Hooks]

Instant upgrade over bonner

[spurtech09]

well atleast the spurs add a big....sucks manu had to get hurt.....get well soon manu

[bklynspursfan]

You guys think this was going down regardless of Manu's injury? It's 5 games into the season so maybe they said give it 5 games before we decide... or whatever.

[loveforthegame]

I like it. I've seen him play a lot in both GS and Sacramento. He's not the shot blocker we've all been hoping for but he bangs inside, has some post moves, and does all the dirty work. He's a hustle player for sure.

I hated it when GS traded him to Indy where he was plagued with injuries. I don't know if he can return to form like was in GS but he seemed to right the ship when he was in Sacramento and LA. He at least showed some of the promise he did while in GS.

It's not a knock your socks off type of signing but he is a Spurs type player. Solid signing imo.

[Amuseddaysleeper]

I don't know/think he'll be enough to limit Bonner in Pop's eyes, but I'll honestly take Rasho as of this second if it means less Bonner.

[jjktkk]

I don't know/think he'll be enough to limit Bonner in Pop's eyes, but I'll honestly take Rasho as of this second if it means less Bonner.

Call me crazy, but imo, if the combination of Blair and Diogu is productive, I don't expect(wishful thinking maybe?) Bonner getting big minutes.

[TP2150]

http://thenolookpass.com/Pix/ikediogu.jpg

[TD 21]

I knew they'd sign a power forward, who can play some center, as opposed to a true center. On sheer talent alone, he's probably the best they could do, unless the Mavs sign Fesenko and Wright springs free (though I'd imagine the Grizzlies would strongly pursue him and could offer a bigger role). But considering they need size, shooting and defense in a big, he doesn't fill a single need.

He'll clearly be the fifth big. I don't see any possible way he can leapfrog Bonner, unless he's suddenly developed range out to three. He can score down low, is a good offensive rebounder and has a solid career PER of 15.7. If not for his knee injuries, he'd more than likely have been a rotation big for the past half decade or so.

[therealtruth]

It's not certain he'll stick with the team. The Spurs signed and waived players several times last season when they were trying to find a backup small forward and they still never found one they liked.

I think this move allows the possibility for Splitter to start without playing Bonner and Blair together. The defense has consistently been better when he's in the game and he provides rim protection. Either Tiago and Tim will likely have a height mismatch they can use on offense. It seems teams are putting the power forward on Tiago in that situation. He has to be able to score or draw a foul. I saw him do it once on Derrick Williams but would like to see him do it more. Blair will also have an easier time scoring against second units that have less length.

[Mr. Body]

Expected more out of this guy coming out of college. He's really bounced around.

[wildbill2u]

Watch the video. He's coming off knee surgery and is 'being careful" with it although it 'feels good'.

Did we get a big big with a broken wheel?

[jjktkk]

I knew they'd sign a power forward, who can play some center, as opposed to a true center. On sheer talent alone, he's probably the best they could do, unless the Mavs sign Fesenko and Wright springs free (though I'd imagine the Grizzlies would strongly pursue him and could offer a bigger role). But considering they need size, shooting and defense in a big, he doesn't fill a single need.

He'll clearly be the fifth big. I don't see any possible way he can leapfrog Bonner, unless he's suddenly developed range out to three. He can score down low, is a good offensive rebounder and has a solid career PER of 15.7. If not for his knee injuries, he'd more than likely have been a rotation big for the past half decade or so.

Diogu provides scoring and rebounding. Altohugh more size would help, Splitter has definitely helped in that department, along with his defense and abilty to score and make plays for his teammates. The signing of Diogu, along with Blair, has the chance of being productive as well.

[ChumpDumper]

Watch the video. He's coming off knee surgery and is 'being careful" with it although it 'feels good'.

Did we get a big big with a broken wheel?Microfracture surgery.

[Brazil]

As always spurs with a move that nobody expected... I'm curious to know if somebody had discussed this option... maybe in the think tank forum

[ffadicted]

Like the pickup

[024]

ike is decent. he is someone you would have loved to have a few years ago to develop. right now, he's just a decent off the bench big. he used to be a pretty good rebounder and was a good shot blocker as well. never really lived up to his potential. i predict mostly garbage minutes, which might be a lot considering manu's injury.

[angelbelow]

Not a bad move since were in such need for frontcourt depth. But Ike Diogu.. people have been saying he has "potential" since he entered the league. I doubt he turns out to be anything special. At this point I don't really consider him a prospect, more of a 5th big/team fodder.

[Brazil]

Like the pickup

not spurs material IMO he is shooting FT 80%... way too much

[024]

oh he's actually only 6'6 without shoes too so he and blair have that in common.

[TD 21]

Diogu provides scoring and rebounding. Altohugh more size would help, Splitter has definitely helped in that department, along with his defense and abilty to score and make plays for his teammates. The signing of Diogu, along with Blair, has the chance of being productive as well.

Do you have any semblance of reading comprehension or are you too caught up in being a front office apologist to think straight? I specifically said, "he can score down low, is a good offensive rebounder". But he doesn't provide size for his position, shooting or defense. Those are the qualities they lack in their bigs.

[Mel_13]

As always spurs with a move that nobody expected... I'm curious to know if somebody had discussed this option... maybe in the think tank forum


RuffnReadyOzStyle called it last night:


If we want another big, why not grab someone like Ike Diogu for the minimum. He's a banger, plays hard, sticks to his role. Decent as a 5th big.

http://spurstalk.com/forums/showpost.php?p=5546483&postcount=20

[Brazil]

RuffnReadyOzStyle called it last night:



http://spurstalk.com/forums/showpost.php?p=5546483&postcount=20


Ruff with the goods ! :toast

[Bill_Brasky]

Good call Ruff.

Hope he can come in and give us good minutes.

[pookenstein]

I'm a little shocked t2s didn't call that. Since he has all these sources that usually never fail...

[dunkman]

I guess the injury precipitated the signing, otherwise why would the Spurs add Ike mid-season. He won't count much for Pop.

With Manu being injured, there will be less options for playing small ball.

[silverblk mystix]

What I remember about Diogu is that he has a strong motor and he will bang for rebounds and out-rebound guys much bigger than him.

Maybe he can teach Blair some new tricks and be more valuable to the Spurs in this way.

[SenorSpur]

Hoopshype profile on Diogu:

http://hoopshype.com/players/ike_diogu.htm

Good low-post game...Great footwork...Good hands...Long arms...Lacks height and athleticism.

I would hope this would mean Bonner's minutes would decrease, but that wouldn't happen. Just so long as he can provide some production off the bench, is taller than Blair and can spell Duncan on B2B nights, he should help. I don't know how much upside he has, if any. If nothing else, perhaps he can be a stop-gap player until (or if) they can find a better big option.

[Nathan89]

7EKBBmmJnAA#t105s

From 2009---go to 1:45

[Libri]

Hoopshype profile on Diogu:

http://hoopshype.com/players/ike_diogu.htm

Good low-post game...Great footwork...Good hands...Long arms...Lacks height and athleticism.

I would hope this would mean Bonner's minutes would decrease, but that wouldn't happen. Just so long as he can provide some production off the bench, is taller than Blair and can spell Duncan on B2B nights, he should help. I don't know how much upside he has, if any. If nothing else, perhaps he can be a stop-gap player until (or if) they can find a better big option.

I get depressed every time I read those two words.

[xmas1997]

If that is the best they can do I am not impressed. Doubt they make the playoffs, but I live and die by my team.

[Brazil]

Greg Oden father ?

<li class="rg_li" style="width: 188px; height: 147px;">https://encrypted-tbn3.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQDdFGPoIH3Ww-U7ExnL-pUBHZOtAdl1yV2BNWCN9_F3_YOeLulTA (http://www.google.com/imgres?start=28&num=10&hl=en&gbv=2&biw=1280&bih=832&tbm=isch&tbnid=-Sgb0tgIboJVcM:&imgrefurl=http://topics.oregonlive.com/tag/trail-blazers/videos-oldest-3.html&docid=vZgRoRgzj7c6vM&imgurl=http://brightcove.vo.llnwd.net/d12/unsecured/media/268012951001/268012951001_610750861001_Ike-media-day-wmv-thumb.jpg%253FpubId%253D268012951001&w=256&h=192&ei=GJYDT5KtJ8ugtwee3eieDg&zoom=1)

[tlongII]

Championship baby!!!

[timtonymanu]

Championship baby!!!

Serious question: How did Ike look in Portland?

[RuffnReadyOzStyle]

Ahem:

http://spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?p=5549590#post20

Seems like I called this signing hours before it occurred! :D

I watched quite a bit of him last year with the Clips, and I like Ike: he's nothing special, doesn't have a high ceiling due to his lumbering lack of athleticism, but he is a banger and a hard worker and fine as a 4-5th big. I like this signing.

[timvp]

I think the best outcome would be to use Diogu for his scoring ability while Ginobili is gone. Once Ginobili is back, it'd probably make sense to release Diogu and sign a defensive center. When scoring isn't at a premium, Diogu just doesn't have enough value.

[RuffnReadyOzStyle]

As always spurs with a move that nobody expected... I'm curious to know if somebody had discussed this option... maybe in the think tank forum

Actually, I suggested it yesterday because I was surprised he remained unsigned:

http://spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?p=5549590#post20

Microfracture surgery explains why he was out there.

[slick'81]

after his micro fracture surgery diagu has lost all if not most of his explosiveness dont think he has much left but hey what do the spurs have left to lose

[gospursgojas]

Ahem:

http://spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?p=5549590#post20

Seems like I called this signing hours before it occurred! :D

I watched quite a bit of him last year with the Clips, and I like Ike: he's nothing special, doesn't have a high ceiling due to his lumbering lack of athleticism, but he is a banger and a hard worker and fine as a 4-5th big. I like this signing.


Actually, I suggested it yesterday because I was surprised he remained unsigned:

http://spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?p=5549590#post20

Microfracture surgery explains why he was out there.

Look back a page you were given your props....good call :tu

[TD 21]

He didn't actually "call it", as so many of you are saying. What he did was suggest it.

[The Great Fantastic]

Yes!!!! A spurs signing and a forum feather ruffling! Did Ruff call it? Did he suggest it? Let's get off topic on what Diogu can bring us and get to the goods!

Go!!!!!!

[RuffnReadyOzStyle]

Look back a page you were given your props....good call :tu

Thanks. :)


He didn't actually "call it", as so many of you are saying. What he did was suggest it.

Semantics. I've been sitting here wondering why we haven't signed him, mention it, then we sign him.

Anyway, I like the signing although didn't know about the microfracture surgery. It'll be interesting to see how much that hampers him - obviously not too much or I doubt Pop would've signed him.


Yes!!!! A spurs signing and a forum feather ruffling! Did Ruff call it? Did he suggest it? Let's get off topic on what Diogu can bring us and get to the goods!

Go!!!!!!

:lmao

[timvp]

The major red flag with Diogu: Why the hell didn't the Clippers re-sign him? They are amazingly desperate for a backup big. They've been using the rotting corpse of Brian Cook as their third big so far this season. Bonner >>>>>>>> Cook

I know they are waiting for Reggie Evans to heal but the Clippers signed Solomon Jones today, a pretty damn bad bigman whose ceiling is a worse Francisco Elson. They obviously wanted no part of Diogu.

It's possible that the Clippers got tired of Diogu since he's a sub par defender and doesn't pass. Or maybe the doctors wouldn't clear Diogu due to something regarding his knee. But if the most bigman starved team in the league wouldn't even give Diogu a non-guaranteed deal, that can't be a good sign.

Then again, I guess the Spurs could just hope that was just the Clippers being the Clippers.

[RuffnReadyOzStyle]

The major red flag with Diogu: Why the hell didn't the Clippers re-sign him? They are amazingly desperate for a backup big. They've been using the rotting corpse of Brian Cook as their third big so far this season. Bonner >>>>>>>> Cook

I know they are waiting for Reggie Evans to heal but the Clippers signed Solomon Jones today, a pretty damn bad bigman whose ceiling is a worse Francisco Elson. They obviously wanted no part of Diogu.

It's possible that the Clippers got tired of Diogu since he's a sub par defender and doesn't pass. Or maybe the doctors wouldn't clear Diogu due to something regarding his knee. But if the most bigman starved team in the league wouldn't even give Diogu a non-guaranteed deal, that can't be a good sign.

Then again, I guess the Spurs could just hope that was just the Clippers being the Clippers.

Yeah, that's what baffled me too. I guess we're just taking a flyer on Ike, and if he doesn't work out he won't last as per usual. We do go through a lot of 3rd stringers every year.

[MI21]

Not big on Diogu, but he gives the team something they lack at the moment with TD's decline in the post.

He has a decent amount of junk in the post and can score against quality NBA defenders. The other end isn't so pretty, but he does have a legitimate NBA talent - scoring down low.

[The Great Fantastic]

I have a name, Ruff. That's just rude.

[SenorSpur]

I think the best outcome would be to use Diogu for his scoring ability while Ginobili is gone. Once Ginobili is back, it'd probably make sense to release Diogu and sign a defensive center. When scoring isn't at a premium, Diogu just doesn't have enough value.

That would be a good scenario. However unless I"m reading the tea leaves wrong, I just see a defensive-minded big on the market for them to sign. Did you have anyone specific in mind? I guess the landscape could change in 2 months.

[TD 21]

Semantics. I've been sitting here wondering why we haven't signed him, mention it, then we sign him.

Anyway, I like the signing although didn't know about the microfracture surgery. It'll be interesting to see how much that hampers him - obviously not too much or I doubt Pop would've signed him.

No offense, but they're two completely different things.

timvp, as far as why the Clippers signed a lesser talent, in Jones, over Diogu, it's obvious. They wanted/needed more of a rim protector type.

[Nathan89]

He didn't actually "call it", as so many of you are saying. What he did was suggest it.

"If we want another big, why not grab someone like Ike Diogu for the minimum."
-Ruff

He called it as a good addition. Was he supposed to say "the spurs are going to sign Ike"? Without a source that would be stupid. If this doesn't qualify as "calling it" on this forum, then I don't know what does.

[timvp]

timvp, as far as why the Clippers signed a lesser talent, in Jones, over Diogu, it's obvious. They wanted/needed more of a rim protector type.

Could be but they already have the league's leading shotblocker in DeAndre Jordan and in their current backup bigs (Cook and Evans), they show they don't value shotblocking. Plus if shotblocking is the issue, why not sign and play Diogu over Cook?

[dbestpro]

Just for grins, his real name is Ikechukwu Somtochukwu Diogu.

[TD 21]

"If we want another big, why not grab someone like Ike Diogu for the minimum."
-Ruff

He called it as a good addition. Was he supposed to say "the spurs are going to sign Ike"? Without a source that would be stupid. If this doesn't qualify as "calling it" on this forum, then I don't know what does.

He could have said "I could see them signing Diogu", or "I wouldn't be surprised if they sign Diogu", or "I think they'll sign Diogu".

But why let facts get in the way of a good story?

timvp, Jordan accounts for one player though and he's foul prone. Signing Jones indicates that they do value shot blocking, but that they first wanted to get the best big they could for the minimum and given what was left, that was Evans. Playing Diogu over Cook would mean even less shooting amongst their bigs than they already have.

[RuffnReadyOzStyle]

I have a name, Ruff. That's just rude.

My apologies. I had to type it in but didn't know who I was replying to. Fixed it for you.


Just for grins, his real name is Ikechukwu Somtochukwu Diogu.

I'm guessing Bill and Sean are going to have a go at pronouncing that at some stage and will mess it up completely... and when they do, you can say I called that too! :lmao

[jjktkk]

Do you have any semblance of reading comprehension or are you too caught up in being a front office apologist to think straight?

Only a complete, fucking moron would think I need to apologize for respecting Pop and RC. Google top 5 NBA front offices and post your results dumbass. But on to your needless ranting and raving. You said in your previous post and I quote, " But considering they need size, shooting and defense in a big, he doesn't fill a single need." To which I replied Diogu provides scoring and rebounding. scoring equates to shooting, does it not? Were you implying long range shooting? Diogu might not even make the team, but he does have a chance to provide "something".


I specifically said, "he can score down low, is a good offensive rebounder". But he doesn't provide size for his position, shooting or defense. Those are the qualities they lack in their bigs.

This is true, although Splitter is helping in that regard. I don't know if the Spurs will look to find a antoher big with size.

[TD 21]

Only a complete, fucking moron would think I need to apologize for respecting Pop and RC. Google top 5 NBA front offices and post your results dumbass. But on to your needless ranting and raving. You said in your previous post and I quote, " But considering they need size, shooting and defense in a big, he doesn't fill a single need." To which I replied Diogu provides scoring and rebounding. scoring equates to shooting, does it not? Were you implying long range shooting? Diogu might not even make the team, but he does have a chance to provide "something".



This is true, although Splitter is helping in that regard. I don't know if the Spurs will look to find a antoher big with size.

Being an apologist and being respectful are two entirely different things. But I'm not the least bit surprised that you're unaware of the difference.

Obviously, I meant mid range shooting.

Splitter is helping in that regard, but they need another big, who's at least a legit 6-9 and who isn't a liability from mid range, defensively or on the glass. It depends on Diogu's contract, as to whether they'll pursue another big with size. I'd imagine it's non-guaranteed, but I haven't heard anything as of it. If it is, we could see a revolving door for a while, similar to what they did auditioning depth small forward's last season.

[CGD]

Is Sam Amik the only person reporting this right now?

[Nathan89]

He could have said "I could see them signing Diogu", or "I wouldn't be surprised if they sign Diogu", or "I think they'll sign Diogu".

But why let facts get in the way of a good story?



He called it as a good option.

You sound jealous, imho.

[DPG21920]

This is an underwhelming signing but one that had to happen. We won't find out if it truly matters until a few weeks. RC and the FO has been on a pretty bad slide the past 3 years or so however.

[DPG21920]

He called it as a good option.

You sound jealous, imho.

I think it's because Ruff dislocated a shoulder patting himself on the back in multiple threads all the while ignoring those who gave him props in the first place :lol

But he was excited and he's Ruff, so he gets an obvious pass IMVHO

[TD 21]

He called it as a good option.

You sound jealous, imho.

I'm just a stickler for details.

[SenorSpur]

ESPN's John Hollinger's take on the Ike Diogu signing, and how it fits with the Spurs:

+ Undersized 4 with great activity around basket. Good rebounder. Draws fouls.
+ Struggles to finish against size. Poor defensive player because of lack of height.
+ Mediocre outside shooter. Tunnel vision -- just looks to score. Limited handle.

"After missing a season with a knee injury, Diogu showed he can still score with great efficiency, albeit not quite at the rate he did pre-injury. He shot 56.1 percent, drew his usual horde of fouls and averaged a very solid 17.6 points per 40 minutes. However, Diogu needs to boost his contribution in other respects. The fact he has a grand total of five assists in his past 65 NBA games tells you a lot about his approach -- catch ball, attack rim, repeat. He needs to share the wealth a bit offensively, and defensively he needs to improve too. He's not terrible, because he moves decently and will get physical, but he's short (6-foot-8) for a power forward and has to compensate with greater effort than he's shown. All the same, it's puzzling he hasn't been able to carve out a greater role. Countless big men with lesser production have become established rotation players; between injuries and constantly being in the wrong place at the wrong time, Diogu hasn't."

[Solid D]

He's got some toughness but I don't care for this signing. Another long wingspan player who is 6-9 in high-heels. Small ball personified. +1 for physicality. Maybe a nice practice player tree stump in the post..if the Spurs ever get to practice.

[jjktkk]

Obviously, I meant mid range shooting.



Duncan provides mid range shooting. His regression, in regards to his post game has hurt the Spurs fronline overall. They need more of a post scorer imo., but any kind of scoring from a big is welcome.

[analyzed]

That would be a good scenario. However unless I"m reading the tea leaves wrong, I just see a defensive-minded big on the market for them to sign. Did you have anyone specific in mind? I guess the landscape could change in 2 months.

Kenyon Martin should be free from his Chinese contract by March. Maybe Ike is a temporary fill in before we get Martin ( Denver dosent really need Martin)

[analyzed]

ESPN's John Hollinger's take on the Ike Diogu signing, and how it fits with the Spurs:

+ Undersized 4 with great activity around basket. Good rebounder. Draws fouls.
+ Struggles to finish against size. Poor defensive player because of lack of height.
+ Mediocre outside shooter. Tunnel vision -- just looks to score. Limited handle.

"After missing a season with a knee injury, Diogu showed he can still score with great efficiency, albeit not quite at the rate he did pre-injury. He shot 56.1 percent, drew his usual horde of fouls and averaged a very solid 17.6 points per 40 minutes. However, Diogu needs to boost his contribution in other respects. The fact he has a grand total of five assists in his past 65 NBA games tells you a lot about his approach -- catch ball, attack rim, repeat. He needs to share the wealth a bit offensively, and defensively he needs to improve too. He's not terrible, because he moves decently and will get physical, but he's short (6-foot-8) for a power forward and has to compensate with greater effort than he's shown. All the same, it's puzzling he hasn't been able to carve out a greater role. Countless big men with lesser production have become established rotation players; between injuries and constantly being in the wrong place at the wrong time, Diogu hasn't."

Wow we got a second rate Blair

[DPG21920]

Wow we got a second rate Blair


My impressions from watching him play in limited time is to think of himlike a bigger Blair but shift Blair's rebounding potential to offensive potential.

Ahem

- Ruff

[TP2150]

Do they come with him?


http://thenolookpass.com/Pix/ikediogu.jpg

[Amuseddaysleeper]

Does this mean we probably won't have a good shot at Przybilla?

I assume his announcement should be very soon

[ace3g]

Spurs press release:

http://www.nba.com/spurs/news/120103_spurs_sign_ike_diogu

He will wear #1

[GSH]

ESPN's John Hollinger's take on the Ike Diogu signing, and how it fits with the Spurs:

+ Undersized 4 with great activity around basket. Good rebounder. Draws fouls.
+ Struggles to finish against size. Poor defensive player because of lack of height.
+ Mediocre outside shooter. Tunnel vision -- just looks to score. Limited handle.

"...The fact he has a grand total of five assists in his past 65 NBA games tells you a lot about his approach -- catch ball, attack rim, repeat. He needs to share the wealth a bit offensively, and defensively he needs to improve too... All the same, it's puzzling he hasn't been able to carve out a greater role."

Sounds like the Drew Gooden story. Left college after Junior year. Top 10 draft pick. Notorious underachiever. Played for nine teams in nine years (Gooden). Black hole on offense. Adequate on defense - except when he's not.

And I'm still glad the Spurs signed him.

[DPG21920]

lol The Portland announcers bagging on the Spurs. First off, they were saying something about Golden State and one guy said they've had some injuries and the other goes "isn't that always the case with that team?". Silence after realizing who they are :lol

Then Durant fouls someone and he complains and he says "you don't play for the Spurs, come on, quit complaining. By the way, Spurs with a huge loss in Ginobili. Broke his hand".

[Amuseddaysleeper]

I'm getting the OKC feed, but F those Portland announcers.

[TDMVPDPOY]

lol The Portland announcers bagging on the Spurs. First off, they were saying something about Golden State and one guy said they've had some injuries and the other goes "isn't that always the case with that team?". Silence after realizing who they are :lol

Then Durant fouls someone and he complains and he says "you don't play for the Spurs, come on, quit complaining. By the way, Spurs with a huge loss in Ginobili. Broke his hand".

fck portland, maybe the spurs should go and sign Roy to 7 games to put his salary back on the blazers cap...

[DMC]

Where do we find all these fucking names? Do we go to Bob Costas, Dick Vitale or Marv and ask "have you ever heard of this guy" and only select the ones they say no to?

[RuffnReadyOzStyle]

I think it's because Ruff dislocated a shoulder patting himself on the back in multiple threads all the while ignoring those who gave him props in the first place :lol

But he was excited and he's Ruff, so he gets an obvious pass IMVHO

Hey, it's not often you mention something and it happens within hours, and it was only in two relevant threads, so :P.


Ahem

- Ruff

:lmao

The forum has been complaining about how we really only have 3 true big men for some time. Now we've got a 4th who is serviceable in a pinch. That's all this is, but I don't see any better bangers out there right now so I think it makes sense.

DPG, as for your comment about the FO striking out over the past 3 years, I agree to some extent, but they've also had little to work with in terms of tradeable assets and cap flexibility. We all know they screwed up the RJ re-signing, and they follow a pattern - grab old veterans on the decline and hope they'll contribute something in the system. It worked with Finley, failed with RJ. The major concern for mine is how they are going to go about rebuilding... half-measures make no sense, so I hope they fully commit to it when they start.

PS They hit a home run with Leonard methinks - kid will be very good in a couple of years.

[urunobili]

WOW Portland announcers classless. They are the most annoying in the league and now they pull this shit? will the NBA ever step up to fine them for this kind of shit?

[DPG21920]

:lol I don't think it's anywhere near something they should be fined for, but it was just a random shot. They weren't celebrating the injury, just kind of mentioning it in passing after taking the shot.

[The_Worlds_finest]

Good sign, could have done worse

[analyzed]

Spurs press release:

http://www.nba.com/spurs/news/120103_spurs_sign_ike_diogu

He will wear #1

At least he won't be wearing #50 as he is pictured in press release :)

[E-RockWill]

ESPN's John Hollinger's take on the Ike Diogu signing, and how it fits with the Spurs:

+ Undersized 4 with great activity around basket. Good rebounder. Draws fouls.
+ Struggles to finish against size. Poor defensive player because of lack of height.
+ Mediocre outside shooter. Tunnel vision -- just looks to score. Limited handle.

"After missing a season with a knee injury, Diogu showed he can still score with great efficiency, albeit not quite at the rate he did pre-injury. He shot 56.1 percent, drew his usual horde of fouls and averaged a very solid 17.6 points per 40 minutes. However, Diogu needs to boost his contribution in other respects. The fact he has a grand total of five assists in his past 65 NBA games tells you a lot about his approach -- catch ball, attack rim, repeat. He needs to share the wealth a bit offensively, and defensively he needs to improve too. He's not terrible, because he moves decently and will get physical, but he's short (6-foot-8) for a power forward and has to compensate with greater effort than he's shown. All the same, it's puzzling he hasn't been able to carve out a greater role. Countless big men with lesser production have become established rotation players; between injuries and constantly being in the wrong place at the wrong time, Diogu hasn't."

That is exactly what our offense needs. Besides being one of the best basketball players in the world, Manu consistently takes it to the rim.

Grab rebounds, take it to the bucket & draw fouls.

Know your role & go play. :flag:

[ducks]

sounds like a 5 big

[G-Dawgg]

The major red flag with Diogu: Why the hell didn't the Clippers re-sign him? They are amazingly desperate for a backup big. They've been using the rotting corpse of Brian Cook as their third big so far this season. Bonner >>>>>>>> Cook

I know they are waiting for Reggie Evans to heal but the Clippers signed Solomon Jones today, a pretty damn bad bigman whose ceiling is a worse Francisco Elson. They obviously wanted no part of Diogu.

It's possible that the Clippers got tired of Diogu since he's a sub par defender and doesn't pass. Or maybe the doctors wouldn't clear Diogu due to something regarding his knee. But if the most bigman starved team in the league wouldn't even give Diogu a non-guaranteed deal, that can't be a good sign.

Maybe he's just not quick and athletic enough to run with their "lob city" style and keep up with an uptempo all-pointguard backcourt.
Then again, I guess the Spurs could just hope that was just the Clippers being the Clippers.

[The_Worlds_finest]

X3MyU_NCyu0 i know its old and highlites but this is what the guy is bringing to the table.

[my2sons]

Really he is a prolifent 3pt shooter that can open up the middle for timmy?

[Solid D]

Really he is a prolifent 3pt shooter that can open up the middle for timmy?

Ducks? Is that you?

[lefty]

Greg Oden father ?

<li class="rg_li" style="width: 188px; height: 147px;">https://encrypted-tbn3.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQDdFGPoIH3Ww-U7ExnL-pUBHZOtAdl1yV2BNWCN9_F3_YOeLulTA (http://www.google.com/imgres?start=28&num=10&hl=en&gbv=2&biw=1280&bih=832&tbm=isch&tbnid=-Sgb0tgIboJVcM:&imgrefurl=http://topics.oregonlive.com/tag/trail-blazers/videos-oldest-3.html&docid=vZgRoRgzj7c6vM&imgurl=http://brightcove.vo.llnwd.net/d12/unsecured/media/268012951001/268012951001_610750861001_Ike-media-day-wmv-thumb.jpg%253FpubId%253D268012951001&w=256&h=192&ei=GJYDT5KtJ8ugtwee3eieDg&zoom=1)
More like his son

[Brazil]

More like his son

:lol thats true

[jgome21]

I'll take that. We can use more depth right now esp with Duncan's age and Bonner's ineffectiveness on D/rebounding.

[weebo]

scrub...nothing to get your panties wet

[Ice009]

RC and the FO has been on a pretty bad slide the past 3 years or so however.

Isn't that about the time Sam Presti left? Would you say that is a coincidence?

[TJastal]

ESPN's John Hollinger's take on the Ike Diogu signing, and how it fits with the Spurs:

+ Undersized 4 with great activity around basket. Good rebounder. Draws fouls.
+ Struggles to finish against size. Poor defensive player because of lack of height.
+ Mediocre outside shooter. Tunnel vision -- just looks to score. Limited handle.

"After missing a season with a knee injury, Diogu showed he can still score with great efficiency, albeit not quite at the rate he did pre-injury. He shot 56.1 percent, drew his usual horde of fouls and averaged a very solid 17.6 points per 40 minutes. However, Diogu needs to boost his contribution in other respects. The fact he has a grand total of five assists in his past 65 NBA games tells you a lot about his approach -- catch ball, attack rim, repeat. He needs to share the wealth a bit offensively, and defensively he needs to improve too. He's not terrible, because he moves decently and will get physical, but he's short (6-foot-8) for a power forward and has to compensate with greater effort than he's shown. All the same, it's puzzling he hasn't been able to carve out a greater role. Countless big men with lesser production have become established rotation players; between injuries and constantly being in the wrong place at the wrong time, Diogu hasn't."

Cuz he sucks?

[angelbelow]

X3MyU_NCyu0 i know its old and highlites but this is what the guy is bringing to the table.

Bad highlight video because he really looks like a good player. Hes not.. hes not even a prospect anymore. At this point, hes a 5th big/roster rounder. He couldn't stick with a bigman depleted clippers and that says a lot. But given our situation, I'm not complaining about having him. (Although Lawal might have been better for defensive purposes.)

I caught quite a few clipper games last year with the impression that he was an intriguing prospect that just needed an opportunity to play. Well he had plenty of opportunities last year and hes simply too one dimensional.

He can score the ball, maybe grab some rebounds but he lacks defense and athleticism. His work ethic is also a HUGE question mark. Despite what you read, anything a player with the "talent" that Diogu poccesses but never seems to have the "opportunity" to play, hes either has character issues, lazy/no work ethic, or a weak body. Maybe we'll find out exactly why this guy hasn't been able to establish a role for himself yet.

[callo1]

Good pick up by the Spurs front office. Ike has good touch around the rim, and has just enough junk in his game to be able to get his shot off down low against taller opponents. He plays bigger than '6"9 in part due to his "88 wingspan. He can bang, rebound decently, and he can even get after some shots...more of a shot changer than a shot blocker, but shoot, I'll take that over Bonner's post defense any day. He is kind of like Blair with a more size and a better offensive game.

While we all would have like to have seen the Spurs sign a 7 footer, there really isn't one out there in the Spurs price range with the skill set of Diogu.

This guy is a good character guy, he isn't afraid of contact...he actually looks for it, and he leaves it out on the floor. He is a very hard worker, despite what others are saying... I'm sure that is why RC and Pop went after him.

Don't have to run any plays for him, he can clean up fairly well.

I see Ike fitting in very well in the silver and black.

I'm really excited, this guy is way underrated, and is a sleeper pick up that will make the team better. Book it.

[Buddy Holly]

Good pick up by the Spurs front office. Ike has good touch around the rim, and has just enough junk in his game to be able to get his shot off down low against taller opponents. He plays bigger then '6"9 in part due to his "88 wingspan. He can bang, rebound decently, and he can even get after some shots...more of a shot changer than a shot blocker, but shoot, I'll take that over Bonner's post defense any day. He is kind of like Blair with a more size and a better offensive game.

While we all would have like to have seen the Spurs sign a 7 footer, there really isn't one out there in the Spurs price range with the skill set of Diogu.

This guy is a good character guy, he isn't afraid of contact...he actually looks for it, and he leaves it out on the floor. He is a very hard worker... I'm sure that is why RC and Pop went after him. I see Ike fitting in very well in the silver and black.

I'm really excited, this guy is way underrated, and is a sleeper pick up that will make the team better. Book it.

I like and agree with this.

[dylankerouac]

I'll take it, at least the front office did something - we've all been wanting some sort of action on the big-man front. If he's not a good fit then in a month or so he'll just be let go. At least his strength is Timmy's biggest weakness right now. Also, any time he gets the ball he will likely already be in the low block (weakness anyone?) making a presence felt, hopefully a positive one. If he makes his presence felt and starts to pass the ball though, that may be interesting too.

[DJ Mbenga]

saw him with the clippers. he can rebound and gives energy. other than that his offense is cherry picking.

[jjktkk]

Diogu might be just the 1st of of a few bigs the Spurs bring in, but its good to see the FO finally bring in a player.

[Manu-of-steel]

I like this signing. Let's wait and see how it turns out

[WeNeedLength]

He dropped a 32 pt 11 rbnd game on Denver a couple years back. Has Bonner ever done that???

[jimo2305]

a 6'9 bigman.. OH MAI GAWD YES!! THIS IS JUST EXACTLY WHAT WE NEED

[Xevious]

I'll take any bigman just for injury insurance at this point.

[angelbelow]

He dropped a 32 pt 11 rbnd game on Denver a couple years back. Has Bonner ever done that???

Actually, IIRC, Bonner had a 30pt 15 rebound game in 2008.

Edit. Okay my bad, it was 25 pts and 17 rebounds: http://www.basketball-reference.com/boxscores/200712110GSW.html

[Russo21]

Now to trade Bonner and i'd be moderately happy

[Proxy]

Anything to cut into Bonner's minutes is good in my book.

[Spurtacus]

Meh. Hope he was cheap. Hope he outplays Bonner.

[dbestpro]

Everyone thinks Ike will cut into Bonner's minutes. However, Ike's game is most like Blair's. To me, this signing is more a message to Blair, and to give him a push to let him know that someone is looking over his shoulder for playing time.

[wildbill2u]

Just for grins, his real name is Ikechukwu Somtochukwu Diogu.

Chukwu, Chukwu, he's our man
If Bonner can't rebound
Diogu can.

Or something like that. I know the FO knows more than us, but where's the real Melvin Ely when you need him?

[Darkwaters]

http://www.abovethelaw.com/images/entries/i%20like%20ike%20button.gif

[8FOR!3]

Everyone thinks Ike will cut into Bonner's minutes. However, Ike's game is most like Blair's. To me, this signing is more a message to Blair, and to give him a push to let him know that someone is looking over his shoulder for playing time.

I doubt Pop's trying to send a message to Blair. He's the best player on the team right now with Ginobili hurt and TP/Timmy not getting the job done.

[TDomination]

a 6'9 bigman.. OH MAI GAWD YES!! THIS IS JUST EXACTLY WHAT WE NEED

Haha i love the sig!

[TDomination]

is he expected to be in uniform tonight?

[dbestpro]

I doubt Pop's trying to send a message to Blair. He's the best player on the team right now with Ginobili hurt and TP/Timmy not getting the job done.

If Blair is our best player then it's time to start talking about the first pick in the draft.

[ace3g]

Ike shoot around vid

http://www.nba.com/spurs/video/120104_diogu_shoot

[SenorSpur]

I have to admit that I like the fact that he can go with either hand around the basket.

[TDomination]

is he expected to be in uniform tonight?

Yes he is

[timvp]

Super Nintendo, Sega Genesis. Was Ike was dead broke, man, Ike couldn't picture this.

[Stalin]

More like his son

lefty with the goods

[G-Dawgg]

This is a good signing for us. He's gotta be an upgrade over Tim Duncan and Matt Bonner....

[justinandimcool]

I've seen this guy play about 2 minutes in my lifetime.

How's is game? Poor man's _______?

[8FOR!3]

If Blair is our best player then it's time to start talking about the first pick in the draft.

I said RIGHT now. He's averaging 14 and 6. You could make a case for RJ, but through five games Duncan and Parker have been more off. Ginobilis the only big three player who's been more consistent through 5 than RJ/Blair.

[The ADMIRAL 50]

Super Nintendo, Sega Genesis. Was Ike was dead broke, man, Ike couldn't picture this.


:lol NOTORIOUS TIM.V.P :lol

[analyzed]

I've seen this guy play about 2 minutes in my lifetime.

How's is game? Poor man's _BLAIR__?

[Mr Bones]

Diogu measured 6' 6-1/2" in bare feet, making him a half inch taller than Kawhi Leonard in bare feet. Most players gain about an inch when measured with sneakers on, but somehow he managed to gain an inch and a half. He's probably a hair under 6'8". I doubt he's close to his listed 6'9".

[Spurtacus]

If Blair is our best player then it's time to start talking about the first pick in the draft.

Take away Manu and Blair has been our best player through 5 games.

[therealtruth]

I said RIGHT now. He's averaging 14 and 6. You could make a case for RJ, but through five games Duncan and Parker have been more off. Ginobilis the only big three player who's been more consistent through 5 than RJ/Blair.

As good as Blair's increased scoring has been I think he would help the team more if he worked on his defense and making easy shots around the basket. He needs to go up strong and maybe even dunk some of those shots.

[TD 21]

He said "people are going to be surprised with what I can do away from the basket". Given that and the Spurs need for another big who's at least a respectable mid range shooter, I'd imagine they're confident that he's developed his mid range jumper enough to where he can make them at a respectable rate. And if he has, add that to his low post game and offensive rebounding and I see no reason why he couldn't be a lesser version of Landry.