Aron Baynes to sign with the Spurs

[bluebellmaniac]

Ducks?
KBP...

[temujin]

ARON BAYNES 2012
Let me start by saying i am from Slovenija huge fan of Union Olimpija and i ve seen over 30 games played by my team this year most of them in person. Let me break player profile at DRAFT EXPRES and give u my perception of pply s abilities backed up by some stats:

* Physical presence
TRUE
Arons ability as a powerful big man was dully noticed in Euroleage. Often pushing and carrying best opp. big man out of a paint like its nothing. Loncar,Davis even so called "Baby Shack Shortcanidis" 7th 250lbt Panathinaicos center couldnt muscle im inside.

* Little athleticism to speak of
TRUE AND FALSE
In Euroleague made a more than few power dunk and also posterized opp players. Standing dunk under the rim is standard weapon of choise. However thats is Euroleage in NBA his atletic skills would be most likely consider average at best. * LumberingI trully have no idea what that meens :))
* Leaping ability is poor
FALSE
Having achieved 9.8 reb /game he was BEST rebounder in Euroleague and 3rd best in regional ABA leaguu (7.1reb). * Extremely fundamental playerTRUE Scoring and rebounting was never a problem for Aron, but the number of moves in offense is very limited. Posses great hook shot, can dunk on ppl, can score by shooting form close range.. ..and thats about it.

* Excellent touch around the basket
TRUE
When he receve the ball in the paint he cant be stoped.

* Lacks any real creativity with his post moves
TRUE
Same as "fundemental player".

* Holds his position wel
lTRUE
Like said befor he cant be moved inside even by bigger and heavier player.

* Does a good job on the defensive glass
TRUE AND FALSE
Having only 0.5 block per game in Euroleage and 0.9 in ABA league doesnt give a real picture of his inside defense. U have 2 realize that U.Olimpia played in Euro l. against teams who s basic offense is long range shootin (combine 72% live game points).Also never got "owned" by any big man in competision.His biggest problem was collectin lots of personal fouls, at start of a season he had 5 (max in europe) before the end of a game in 7 out of 9 games. Shown great progress on that area.

Aron Baynes is hard working, intelegent player who, under good coaching (Greg would be perfect for him!!!) could develept into a good player.

Some stats for Euroleague regular season:
Ranks #1 : 2-pointers made (54)#1 in Offensive Rebounds (39)#1 in Total Rebounds (98)#3 in Defensive Rebounds (59)#10 in Points (138)#11 in Fouls Drawn

Agree.
Javtokas, Robertas, before accident, with less offensive skills.

[benfti]

Did we learn how to expedite the process with Patty?

Pattys was a little different, he was already in the US when we signed him with a VISA that allowed him to work in Portland, he had to exit the country (I think he went down to mexico) and then re-enter the country via the Australian consulate in Mexico with a new work visa that allowed him to work in Texas, Aron would just have to enter the US with a work visa approval for Texas

[bigfan]

Ive worked at US consulates, his visa would take about an hour.

[99 Problems]

The team mate he lifting is 3 times the size of Shaq.

[freetiago]

Didnt read thread but only spurfan could get this excited over a 15th man who likely wont see much minutes at all during the season

[Slippy]

Thanks for that! Oh, and what people say someone is lumbering, it means that they are heavy footed and slow.

To answer Imakandi. You wouldn't consider Baynes a lumbering kind of player.

[boutons_deux]

Ive worked at US consulates, his visa would take about an hour.

the standard 6-month tourist visit doesn't permit employment.

[Paranoid Pop]

Didnt read thread but only spurfan could get this excited over a 15th man who likely wont see much minutes at all during the season

Say freetiago :lol!

[NickiRasgo]

http://www.abovetherim.com.au/nba/aussie-stars-on-and-off-the-court/


AUSSIE STARS – ON AND OFF THE COURT

I wanted to do an article on Australian basketballer’s in the NBA, but this has turn into something much bigger. It was originally meant to look at Patty Mills and how he has carved out a nice spot in the rotation for the San Antonio Spurs. Then the Spurs took it to the next step and signed another Aussie to their squad so welcome Aron Baynes, you are now a part of this feature as well. Finally, Matt Dellevadova was recently described as the best St Mary’s product since Patty himself, so I figured he should get a mention too. And yesterday it all culminated with a terrific twitter promotion from Patty Mills himself, as he offered signed jerseys to everyone who spent over $150 on his Wears My Shirt website so he could raise money for Cottage By the Sea. So here we are – this is much more than just a basketball article, it’s much more than an Australian article, this is quite frankly, one of the best, most enlightening and interesting stories you will read this week.


Let’s start with Matthew Dellevadova. Delly was born in Maryborough, about an hour from where I am sitting and writing this. A small country town mainly known for farming, it will soon be known for producing one of Australia’s best basketball stars. He was recruited to the Australian Institute of Sport for high performance athlete’s and competed for the Australian Junior National team at the FIBA Under 19 World Championships. The Aussies finished 4th and Delly lead the squad with 10.1 points per game. Matthew Dellevadova also made it to the London 2012 Olympic squad which is where you may have seen his game most recently (unless you follow the Gaels of St Mary’s like a number of basketball mad Aussies do!) The 6’4” point guard has a very impressive resume, but a more impressive repertoire of skills. He is strong, quick, has terrific court vision and tops all that off with a smooth as silk jump shot. At 22 years of age and in his last year with the Gaels, we could be watching another Australian enter the NBA in the next draft. His scoring has gone up in each of his four seasons and he is currently pouring in 17.3ppg. Impressively, his shooting percentages have also gone up each year and he is netting them at a very efficient 45% fg and 40% 3pt. The Gaels have gotten off to a 4-1 start to their campaign and Delly is the big reason why. Make sure you follow this young man on twitter too, and show your support for a future star – @matthewdelly.


Next on the list is arguably the best player in the European league currently and it is this form that has made the San Antonio Spurs sit up and take notice (having Aussie Boomers Head Coach Brett Brown as an assistant coach must help too) but there is no denying Aron Baynes is a star. Baynes was born in New Zealand but moved to Australia and we now claim him! He is a different story to Dellevadova – for starters Baynes is 26 years old, 6”10’ and plays big. He played four years of college basketball in the United States of America for Washington State from 2005-2009. In his final year he had decent numbers of 12.7ppg and 7.5rpg but went undrafted. He has had a good career over in Europe which started in Lithuania, and he has really impressed in his latest stint with Olimpija Ljubljana where he is putting up numbers to the tune of 14ppg and 10rpg. San Antonio have taken notice and it is no surprise as nearly half the roster for the Spurs is foreign, including Patty Mills. Baynes also played in the Olympic team with Mills and Dellevadova and his size and fundamental skill shone through on a number of occasions. After signing his new $3.5million 4 year contract, I for one can’t wait to see just what he can do on the world’s biggest and best stage – we think he has the goods! @aronbaynes


Now we have spoken about the next generation of Aussie stars who have or will most likely make the NBA, it is time to focus on Patty Mills. Mills is a diminutive point guard from Australia. He stands barely 6’0 tall but plays big with blinding speed. Mills is the only Indigenous Australian currently playing in the NBA and is a big part of the Spurs rotation. He provides speed, outside shooting, a keen eye and sound knowledge of the game as well as the aforementioned quickness that an aging Spurs lineup needs. Mills played for the ACT Under 18 team and was swiftly recognised and given a scholarship to the Australian Institute of Sport which was not far from his home town of Canberra. Patty was selected to represent Australia in the Under 20 national team and impressed. He was then asked to try out for the 2006 FIBA World Championship Boomers squad, the youngest player to ever attend a Boomers training camp. He also earned Basketball Australia’s Male Junior player of the year award and then the 2006 Basketball Australia Player of the Year.


After these accolades and honing his craft in the very competitive SEABL competition, Mills took his talents over to the United States collegiate program where he attended St Marys University. After a very impressive career spanning 2 years (and dropping 18.4ppg and 4apg) and after leading the Gaels to the NCAA tournament, Mills went to the NBA. He was drafted in the 2nd round of the 2009 NBA Draft by the Portland Trailblazers, but only appeared in 10 games after breaking his foot in the NAB summer league. The following year he saw more games and more court time, with 64 appearances and averaging 12 mins per game, as he came back to full speed from his previous injury. During the NBA lockout, Patty Mills came back to Australia to play in the local NBL competition for the Melbourne Tigers. (Side Note: I was lucky enough to score a jersey and catch the Tigers victory over New Zealand for my bucks day!) However after just 9 games, Mills decided he would head over to China and ply his trade there. He would be released due to a hamstring injury and then was picked up by the San Antonio Spurs where he continued his career and stills plays today.


Now we know of Patty’s on court achievements and his basketball talent, but this is where the story continues to grow and develop. Patty Mills is a very proud Australian – he loves the country, the people and gets back as often as he can. He also proudly represents Australia especially via his twitter account (@Patty_Mills). Yesterday, Patty hosted a competition via the Wears My Shirt website and the Patty Mills Foundation. He was raising money for Cottage By The Sea and was providing everyone who spent over $150 on products from the store a signed Patty Mills #8 Spurs jersey. The support was deafening, and not just from the faithful Aussie followers. He has a cult following over in America also and they were well represented on twitter this afternoon. By the end of it, thousands of dollars worth of orders were placed and Patty Mills was issuing over 40 signed jerseys. What an absolute champion. These types of stories get buried far too often and with the timing of Delly and Baynes and the upcoming Australia Day (which Patty cannot wait for!) we at Above The Rim thought it needed to be thrust into the spotlight.


In a day an age where people especially sporting stars are seen as insensitive, selfish, inaccessible, Patty Mills is the polar opposite. Perhaps it is his nature, his background, his patriotism to his country, perhaps he wants to give back to those who have helped and supported him – whatever the reason, it needs to be acknowledged. I have no doubt that everyone in Australia is proud of Patty’s achievements as a basketball player, but I have a feeling that everyone who knows and follows Mills is proud of who he is as a person just as much, if not more so.


For more information on the Patty Mills Foundation or Wears My Shirt, head over to their website at www.wearsmyshirt.com – check out all the work they do, but especially check out Patty Mills – his ASSIST AUSTRALIA campaign is listed on there, where he raised $40,000 for victims of natural disasters in Australia and much more. More importantly, continue to follow and support Patty who is super active on twitter – he deserves our attention on and off the court.

[NickiRasgo]

Saw this too on Twitter:

Aron Baynes' visa situation seems to be very similar to Patty Mills' last season. Nothing to worry about Aussie hoops fans, he'll be a Spur.

Though I don't know who he is, maybe some random fan.

[pad300]

Agree.
Javtokas, Robertas, before accident, with less offensive skills.

You guys really confident about this comparison? The Javtokas who was a Dwight Howard level athlete, able to dunk on a 12ft hoop?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kvYgYijGCtY
I hope you're right, bu I really don't see it. If Baynes had that kind of athleticism, he'd have been drafted...

[buttsR4rebounding]

You guys really confident about this comparison? The Javtokas who was a Dwight Howard level athlete, able to dunk on a 12ft hoop?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kvYgYijGCtY
I hope you're right, bu I really don't see it. If Baynes had that kind of athleticism, he'd have been drafted...

I agree. The only positive regarding increased athleticism is that when he was of draft age he was not in the shape he is in now. But, Javtokas before the accident--no way.

[timvp]

Agree.
Javtokas, Robertas, before accident, with less offensive skills.

I've compared him to Javtokas but, IMO, it's more the post-accident version. Before the accident, Javtokas was a GREAT athlete (the "Euro Blake Griffin" wouldn't be much of a stretch) but had little technical skill. After the accident, he lost quite a bit of his athleticism (although he was still above average) but compensated by getting much more skilled.

A bigger Javtokas post-accident with a little less skill? Something like that.

[xmas1997]

One thing for sure, the Spurs could have done a lot worse and probably have in the past.

[LittleCriminal]

Baynes could not get any worse than this....http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/03/Blair_pose.JPG/180px-Blair_pose.JPG

[Boomersgold]

Baynes could not get any worse than this....http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/03/Blair_pose.JPG/180px-Blair_pose.JPG

Couldn't you find a photo of him on the court? :lol

[Chinook]

Couldn't you find a photo of him on the court? :lol

Wouldn't make sense. This is the wild Blair's natural habitat.

[LittleCriminal]

Couldn't you find a photo of him on the court? :lol

lol!!!

[Strategic]

Baynes could not get any worse than this....http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/03/Blair_pose.JPG/180px-Blair_pose.JPG


Never under estimate the power of this.............................................. ......http://s3-media3.ak.yelpcdn.com/bphoto/gc8P1J3L3h2X2HMtmCsDVA/l.jpg

[LittleCriminal]

Never under estimate the power of this.............................................. ......http://s3-media3.ak.yelpcdn.com/bphoto/gc8P1J3L3h2X2HMtmCsDVA/l.jpg

Number 2, Plain and Dry, two slices of cheese, Whatasized, Coke with Little Ice. Extra butter on the Buns.
So good I can only eat it once a month unfortunately. Drool...

[bigfan]

Ahh Javtokas, the one that got away. Ive always believed the guy would have been huge here, a 7 footer that could dunk like a madman and bigger guns than David Robinson. Hell, I still wish they would give him a shot, he's just 33 but I read he had a knee injury in the olympics.

[spurraider21]

Ahh Javtokas, the one that got away. Ive always believed the guy would have been huge here, a 7 footer that could dunk like a madman and bigger guns than David Robinson. Hell, I still wish they would give him a shot, he's just 33 but I read he had a knee injury in the olympics.
why did he never come over? did they just give up on him after the accident?

[BackHome]

Because he and his agent were asses and tried to hardball and get more money mind you that the Spurs payed for his operations. Screw Him and his Agent!

[BackHome]

If he was from Saudia Arabia he would have his Visa and be playing today.

[Maddog]

a question for our antipodean and European fans

Why didn't he get more PT in the Olympics?
Foul Trouble? Looks like he averaged 1 foul/3 minutes
Currently in Slovenia lower 1/~9 minutes
Getting better? Different games? Different competition
Fouling is definitely not one of Pops favorite things

[JureEe]

a question for our antipodean and European fans

Why didn't he get more PT in the Olympics?
Foul Trouble? Looks like he averaged 1 foul/3 minutes
Currently in Slovenia lower 1/~9 minutes
Getting better? Different games? Different competition
Fouling is definitely not one of Pops favorite things

regarding fouls.. i think that he made very good improvment during season,..

First 3 games in ABA league: 3 fouls in 29 min, 3 fouls in 8 min, 4foul in 19 min... =1F/5,6m
first 3 Euroleague games: 3 foulss on 30 min, 4 fouls in 24min, 3 fouls in 24 min.. =1F/7,8m

last 3 ABA games: 3 fouls in 35 min, 5 in 25min, 3 in 33min = 1F/8,4
last 3 in Euroleague.. 3 fouls in 23, 2 in 26, 4 in 25..= 1F/8,2

[Imakandi]

[QUOTE=Maddog;6299177]a question for our antipodean and European fans

Why didn't he get more PT in the Olympics?


Biggest reason obvioslly his playing time

Played only 12 min p/game (1qt), 8pt (65% shooting!) and 3,5 reb based on minutes spend on court not too bad would u agree?
Why? Well q. for Aussie coach, Baynes stats in Lithuania were good (11pt/game), but granted AUS had M.Nillsen, A,Maric and D.Anderson all "bigger" names all playing natural C position, all had great 2011/12 season...

[Russ]

Don't know if this link has been posted . . .

http://www.ridiculousupside.com/2013/1/13/3871718/before-making-move-from-europe-baynes-and-spurs-busy-playing-the

[LittleCriminal]

Don't know if this link has been posted . . .

http://www.ridiculousupside.com/2013/1/13/3871718/before-making-move-from-europe-baynes-and-spurs-busy-playing-the

"Leave it up to Greg Oden (http://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/24277/greg-oden) to hold up the deal between Aron Baynes and the San Antonio Spurs (http://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/san-antonio-spurs)."

[benefactor]

It's bullshit. Olimpija already put a statement out saying they received the buyout money.

[Captivus]

When is this guy expected to be in the US?

[Buddy Holly]

Don't know if this link has been posted . . .

http://www.ridiculousupside.com/2013/1/13/3871718/before-making-move-from-europe-baynes-and-spurs-busy-playing-the

That's bs. Funny how the visa issue had people reporting the Spurs weren't sure about adding Patty because they were trying to sign Fisher. lmao

Now the visa delay has people reporting that the Spurs are trying to sign Oden instead.

[LittleCriminal]

It's gotta be bullshit... Why pass up a guy who is needed and can play now, as opposed to a guy who is needed and can't play till 2016...

[McGusto55]

So when is this guy gonna play...for us...

[ace3g]

And as of today, it has only been 7 days since there were reports of him signing (Patty Mills took 10 days).

[I. Hustle]

Number 2, Plain and Dry, two slices of cheese, Whatasized, Coke with Little Ice. Extra butter on the Buns.
So good I can only eat it once a month unfortunately. Drool...

Number 2, no onions, grilled jalapeños, Dr. Pepper, Whatasized. (I'm going to try the extra butter on the buns).

Once a month? I can't even do that. I don't remember my last trip.

[Two10Whitey]

So is this guy coming over this season or for 2013-2014?

[Imakandi]

"Leave it up to Greg Oden (http://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/24277/greg-oden) to hold up the deal between Aron Baynes and the San Antonio Spurs (http://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/san-antonio-spurs)."

From 1st hand the buyout of Aron Baynes.... Deal is made, Aron s no longer memeber of Union Olimpija!

[DesignatedT]

It took Patty Mills 10 days to get a visa and get over here. This story broke 7days ago.

[LittleCriminal]

Number 2, no onions, grilled jalapeños, Dr. Pepper, Whatasized. (I'm going to try the extra butter on the buns).

Once a month? I can't even do that. I don't remember my last trip.

Kudos to you.... I know sluts who eat that shit everyday and complain that they can't lose weight. lol.
For some reason I cannot find a decent Dr Pepper that comes out of a fountain though. It's always mixed wrong. Has a watered down taste.
Coke is usually stronger at most places for some reason.

[LittleCriminal]

From 1st hand the buyout of Aron Baynes.... Deal is made, Aron s no longer memeber of Union Olimpija!

Yeah I'm not agreeing with the report, just posting what was reported. Greg Oden Is a Bust IMO until Proven Otherwise.

[ace3g]

http://www.poundingtherock.com/2013/1/16/3879676/aron-baynes-san-antonio-spurs-wsu-cougars

Michael Preston of the brilliant CougCenter (http://www.cougcenter.com/), SBNation's site for all things related to the Washington State Cougars, who graciously agreed to grace us with an up close fan's account of Aron Baynes' college career.

[benfti]

Good read that.

[ace3g]

Yeah, everyone when describing Baynes, always keys in on his hard work which has helped his rapid development since starting basketball at a late age.

[exstatic]

why did he never come over? did they just give up on him after the accident?

No, they paid for his medical bills (when they totally didn't have to), and kept tabs on him. They wanted to bring him over 5 or 6 years ago, but he wanted more than the LLE. We ended up with Elson and Jackie Butler that summer, and it ultimately cost us Scola to get rid of his fat ass. End of story.

[Ice009]

Yeah, everyone when describing Baynes, always keys in on his hard work which has helped his rapid development since starting basketball at a late age.

TD started at a late age too. Baynes is way behind in his development ;).

[RuffnReadyOzStyle]

No, they paid for his medical bills (when they totally didn't have to), and kept tabs on him. They wanted to bring him over 5 or 6 years ago, but he wanted more than the LLE. We ended up with Elson and Jackie Butler that summer, and it ultimately cost us Scola to get rid of his fat ass. End of story.

Some sorry history there. :oops

And I really thought Butler could grow into a strong NBA player under Pop (as did many others on ST). Instead he took the money and disappeared. Very sad.

[FuzzyLumpkins]

Good read that.

:lol When I read that it came as an Aussie accent in my head.

[HI-FI]

Kudos to you.... I know sluts who eat that shit everyday and complain that they can't lose weight. lol.
For some reason I cannot find a decent Dr Pepper that comes out of a fountain though. It's always mixed wrong. Has a watered down taste.
Coke is usually stronger at most places for some reason.
ever since you mentioned getting extra butter on your no.2 combo, I'm thinking of it now as well. I'm typically a patty melt or taquito w/potato guy. Good stuff though, I try to hit it up once a month.


http://www.poundingtherock.com/2013/1/16/3879676/aron-baynes-san-antonio-spurs-wsu-cougars

Michael Preston of the brilliant CougCenter (http://www.cougcenter.com/), SBNation's site for all things related to the Washington State Cougars, who graciously agreed to grace us with an up close fan's account of Aron Baynes' college career.
thanks for link. good read. If he remains passionate and hard working towards the game, he could be a steal for us.

[Bruno]

Something to notice about Baynes is the unwinding o the signing:
- In mid December, rumors tarting to pop out about Euro teams wanting Baynes. Tel Aviv and Vittoria were the msot serious ones.
- Around December 20, these rumors were shut down. Ljubljana even posted a news on their website stating that Baynes would stay. A reliable report stated that Tel Aviv wanted to offer wanted to offer $200K for the buyout while Lubjana wanted $300K. The deal feel part for $50K since Baynes was ready to give $50K to pay the buyout.
- Nothing happened during 20 days. Not a single rumor and it seemed quite certain Baynes would stay in Slovenia.
- On January 9th, Spurs were reported to be close to signing Baynes and the deal was done in few hours. The buyout was reportedly $350K-$400K.

You can imagine a lot of scenario explaining these events but the most likely one is that Spurs weren't interested enough in Baynes to sign him in December but they were 20 days later. So, the big question is: What event(s) has(ve) pushed Spurs to change their minds in these 20 days?

[benfti]

Something to notice about Baynes is the unwinding o the signing:
- In mid December, rumors tarting to pop out about Euro teams wanting Baynes. Tel Aviv and Vittoria were the msot serious ones.
- Around December 20, these rumors were shut down. Ljubljana even posted a news on their website stating that Baynes would stay. A reliable report stated that Tel Aviv wanted to offer wanted to offer $200K for the buyout while Lubjana wanted $300K. The deal feel part for $50K since Baynes was ready to give $50K to pay the buyout.
- Nothing happened during 20 days. Not a single rumor and it seemed quite certain Baynes would stay in Slovenia.
- On January 9th, Spurs were reported to be close to signing Baynes and the deal was done in few hours. The buyout was reportedly $350K-$400K.

You can imagine a lot of scenario explaining these events but the most likely one is that Spurs weren't interested enough in Baynes to sign him in December but they were 20 days later. So, the big question is: What event(s) has(ve) pushed Spurs to change their minds in these 20 days?

My more recent word there was the Spurs were ready to pull the trigger 2 months ago, and decided to let a few Euro teams test the waters for what the buy out price was going to be because they thought if they went in first and as an NBA team that the Slovenes were going to (to use an Aussie term) bend em over the table on the buy out figure, as soon as Lubjana narrowly missed on 300, spurs came in on 350.

jobs right.

[BG_Spurs_Fan]

You can imagine a lot of scenario explaining these events but the most likely one is that Spurs weren't interested enough in Baynes to sign him in December but they were 20 days later. So, the big question is: What event(s) has(ve) pushed Spurs to change their minds in these 20 days?

Wild guess, of course, but the Spurs might have originally intended to get Baynes in the summer, however, it is possible that at some point in December/January some euro team was close to getting him and offering him a long term contract, which would have prevented the Spurs from getting him when they wanted. So they had to rush in and get the deal done fast, even if they don't see him in the rotation for this season.

[NickiRasgo]

Wild guess, of course, but the Spurs might have originally intended to get Baynes in the summer, however, it is possible that at some point in December/January some euro team was close to getting him and offering him a long term contract, which would have prevented the Spurs from getting him when they wanted. So they had to rush in and get the deal done fast, even if they don't see him in the rotation for this season.

Isn't Lorbek said in the interview before that the Spurs are really looking for a center?

http://www.projectspurs.com/2012-articles/july/report-spurs-looking-for-center-before-negotiating-with-lorbek.html


According Lorbek, the Spurs' first choice right now is a more physical center that plays 5.

[Spursfanfromafar]

So, the big question is: What event(s) has(ve) pushed Spurs to change their minds in these 20 days?

Perhaps a health check of Blair suggesting that he is done and the fork can be stuck.

[Bruno]

My more recent word there was the Spurs were ready to pull the trigger 2 months ago, and decided to let a few Euro teams test the waters for what the buy out price was going to be because they thought if they went in first and as an NBA team that the Slovaks were going to (to use an Aussie term) bend em over the table on the buy out figure, as soon as Lubjana narrowly missed on 300, spurs came in on 350.

jobs right.

It would make sense and be a nice sneaky CIA-like scenario. In that case, Spurs could even had a pre-agreement with Baynes' agent to be sure that a deal with another Euro team wouldn't succeed.

[mountainballer]

You can imagine a lot of scenario explaining these events but the most likely one is that Spurs weren't interested enough in Baynes to sign him in December but they were 20 days later. So, the big question is: What event(s) has(ve) pushed Spurs to change their minds in these 20 days?

Spurs might have offered less or the same in Dezember, Ljubljana tested the market, didn't find a better offer. Spurs get the deal or the raised their offer. might just have bebn a typical negotiation process.
Spurs raised the offer when they learned that Blair won't make the whole season. (has been mentionedby Spursfanfromafar)
Spurs prepare for a deadline move and need to cover the back up center position. (would a Splitter trade)
Pop wished for a center for Christmas.

[timvp]

Something to notice about Baynes is the unwinding o the signing:
- In mid December, rumors tarting to pop out about Euro teams wanting Baynes. Tel Aviv and Vittoria were the msot serious ones.
- Around December 20, these rumors were shut down. Ljubljana even posted a news on their website stating that Baynes would stay. A reliable report stated that Tel Aviv wanted to offer wanted to offer $200K for the buyout while Lubjana wanted $300K. The deal feel part for $50K since Baynes was ready to give $50K to pay the buyout.
- Nothing happened during 20 days. Not a single rumor and it seemed quite certain Baynes would stay in Slovenia.
- On January 9th, Spurs were reported to be close to signing Baynes and the deal was done in few hours. The buyout was reportedly $350K-$400K.

You can imagine a lot of scenario explaining these events but the most likely one is that Spurs weren't interested enough in Baynes to sign him in December but they were 20 days later. So, the big question is: What event(s) has(ve) pushed Spurs to change their minds in these 20 days?

Blair's physical collapse would explain it somewhat. If it got to the point that the Spurs were in the market for a Blair replacement, going hard after Baynes would still be cheaper than trying to trade for a decent big.

Another possibility: The Spurs and the Rockets were the "two Western Conference teams" interested in Baynes. Ljubljana was waiting for a bidding war between the Spurs and Rockets to develop. But the Rockets -- due to the good play from Omer Asik and the surprisingly effective play of Greg Smith -- decided they didn't need yet another big center, and instead decided to go with Patrick Beverley. With the market narrowing on Ljubljana, they lowered their buyout number and the Spurs swooped in to close the deal.

:smokin

[Richie]

Aside from his size and rebounding, I'm most excited about this baby hook he has that keeps getting mentioned. Having just one half-decent move could earn him more minutes

[Bruno]

Perhaps a health check of Blair suggesting that he is done and the fork can be stuck.

That's a possibility even if Spurs gave up on Blair on December 13rd and he looked awful at that time. Something could have happened in these 20 days regarding Blair (Blair asking for a trade, a medical exam...).



Another possibility: The Spurs and the Rockets were the "two Western Conference teams" interested in Baynes. Ljubljana was waiting for a bidding war between the Spurs and Rockets to develop. But the Rockets -- due to the good play from Omer Asik and the surprisingly effective play of Greg Smith -- decided they didn't need yet another big center, and instead decided to go with Patrick Beverley. With the market narrowing on Ljubljana, they lowered their buyout number and the Spurs swooped in to close the deal.

:smokin

It doesn't fit with the report that Lubjana was ready to let go Baynes for $300K to Maccabi:
http://www.sportando.net/eng/europe/israel/48139/behind-the-scenes-look-at-maccabi-recruits-planinic-and-baynes.html


I do like benfti theory. Another theory would be that Spurs targeted another player and when they realized, a couple of weeks ago, they couldn't get him, so they went with Baynes who was their plan B.

[Strategic]

You can imagine a lot of scenario explaining these events but the most likely one is that Spurs weren't interested enough in Baynes to sign him in December but they were 20 days later. So, the big question is: What event(s) has(ve) pushed Spurs to change their minds in these 20 days?

Knowing that he needs another big to round out a four man rotation, maybe Pop concluded that in no scenerio would Blair or Bonner be suited to play along side Diaw. He may have also eliminated the possibilty of advancing one of the 6'9" bigs that are now playing in Austin to fill the 4th spot. These things, along with the connections he has between the Spurs and people in the know considering Baynes' recent interest, may have prompted the Spurs to pull the string on this deal.

[KL2]

Kudos to you.... I know sluts who eat that shit everyday and complain that they can't lose weight. lol.
For some reason I cannot find a decent Dr Pepper that comes out of a fountain though. It's always mixed wrong. Has a watered down taste.
Coke is usually stronger at most places for some reason.


Orange Fanta is the way to go, no caffeine in it either. I gave up on the other fountain drinks, it's either too watered down or far too sweet.

[capek]

Something to notice about Baynes is the unwinding o the signing:
You can imagine a lot of scenario explaining these events but the most likely one is that Spurs weren't interested enough in Baynes to sign him in December but they were 20 days later. So, the big question is: What event(s) has(ve) pushed Spurs to change their minds in these 20 days?

Well, besides what has already been mentioned, all of which is relevant and seems like part of the story, the other thing that's happened over that 20 days is Tiago's insertion in the starting lineup. Pop had been keeping Splitter on the bench mainly to ensure we had a center on the court at all times. But when it became clear that the Spurs with a starting Tiago were a better team, but also that it was hurting the team to now not have a true center coming off the bench (the gnashing of teeth on ST about all those "mad scientist" small ball bench lineups documented this well), I figure that was what created the impetus to sign Baynes when the Spurs did.

And then most likely the Spurs were in the position to sign him because of the smart maneuvering and positioning their scouting department did by staying abreast of his talks with other Euro teams and/or keeping in touch with his agent.

What I think is interesting, if not necessarily surprising, is the stark difference between how interested foreign players are in playing for San Antonio, versus American players. We seem to be a top destination for the former, while the later most often don't even give us the time of day. I guess you'd say that foreign players care more about the quality of the program and the chance to win, whereas American-born players are more about the lifestyle.

[exstatic]

What I think is interesting, if not necessarily surprising, is the stark difference between how interested foreign players are in playing for San Antonio, versus American players. We seem to be a top destination for the former, while the later most often don't even give us the time of day. I guess you'd say that foreign players care more about the quality of the program and the chance to win, whereas American-born players are more about the lifestyle.

Which is the reason that only about maybe 25% of NBA players could ever play for the Spurs. I laugh at the pining of GNSF for idiots like Josh Smith or DeMarcus Cousins. Those are the exact types of paycheck/lifestyle players that could never play here.

[Paranoid Pop]

Which is the reason that only about maybe 25% of NBA players could ever play for the Spurs. I laugh at the pining of GNSF for idiots like Josh Smith or DeMarcus Cousins. Those are the exact types of paycheck/lifestyle players that could never play here.

By opposition to Nobel prize winners with great attitude like Sjax?

Pop is the first to admit toughness matters, it's basketball, some of you are going too far with the classy bs imo.

[racm]

Which is the reason that only about maybe 25% of NBA players could ever play for the Spurs. I laugh at the pining of GNSF for idiots like Josh Smith or DeMarcus Cousins. Those are the exact types of paycheck/lifestyle players that could never play here.

That's why the Spurs don't just draft based on raw talent, they also look at fit. Better a guy who blows dunks but doesn't sleep on defense.

[racm]

By opposition to Nobel prize winners with great attitude like Sjax?

Pop is the first to admit toughness matters, it's basketball, some of you are going too far with the classy bs imo.

Tbf, Jackson has been with Pop once already and those two are almost like father and son in demeanor.

There's being a tough guy and there's being a total headcase.

[Paranoid Pop]

Tbf, Jackson has been with Pop once already and those two are almost like father and son in demeanor.

There's being a tough guy and there's being a total headcase.

Sjax was a total head case in Milwaukee, Boris was on bad terms with his previous coach as well.

Meanwhile Bonner never had any issue with any coach...

[FuzzyLumpkins]

That's why the Spurs don't just draft based on raw talent, they also look at fit. Better a guy who blows dunks but doesn't sleep on defense.

I worry that De Colo has some Beno in him.

[Ice009]

Tbf, Jackson has been with Pop once already and those two are almost like father and son in demeanor.

There's being a tough guy and there's being a total headcase.

Funny u should mention father and son demeanor. Jax said this after the Wolves game :


http://blog.mysanantonio.com/spursnation/2013/01/13/pops-ejection-sparks-spurs-victory-over-timberwolves/

Immediately upon seeing Popovich quick-stepping to an exit, a question flashed in the mind of veteran guard Stephen Jackson, whose two technical fouls against the Lakers four days earlier produced both his own ejection and a five-point possession for L.A.

“Is that my Dad?” Jackson wondered. “Am I Pop Jr.?”

“Any time a coach does that, you know what it means: Go out there and play harder, go out there and get this game, even if he’s not on the sideline,” Jackson said. “Every player loves a coach who goes to bat for him. You can’t get better than the way Pop does it.”

[Russo21]

Anyone know when this beast will suit up for the Spurs?

[TrainOfThought5]

does he have a nickname??

[chapnis]

does he have a nickname??

the Bayne train, or just Bane.

[Bruno]

292219093866663937

[benefactor]

:tu

[gee]

yeah boi

[NickiRasgo]

O' yeah!

[Bruno]

Looking at Spurs schedule, my guess would be that he will play his first game for Spurs next Wednesday against the Pelicans.

[Paranoid Pop]

the Bayne train, or just Bane.

The train thing is already taken tbh.

[Strategic]

Looking at Spurs schedule, my guess would be that he will play his first game for Spurs next Wednesday against the Pelicans.

I thought that he might not have to suffer the humility of bumping elbows on the bench with the man that he is replacing in the rotation. The Spurs may not make that other move until they see first hand that Baynes belongs on the NBA court this year, that is, if they plan on making that move at all.

[Maddog]

The train thing is already taken tbh.

http://www.woai.com/media/lib/12/e/4/4/e445b078-2ca1-4e77-946f-e91f167c09b1/Story.jpg

[txstr1986]

the Bayne train, or just Bane.

I like Bane. He could walk up to opposing players and say "You just adopted the hardwood, I was born on it".

Which would be ironic considering he's a latecomer to the game compared to most...

[Leetonidas]

The fire rises brotha!

[loveforthegame]

Good news. :tu

[Jordanobili2320]

292219093866663937

great news thank you! What is the soonest he could see action?

[Russ]

292219093866663937

What's his mode of transit, the Mayflower?

[boutons_deux]

What's his mode of transit, the Mayflower?

Our Lord God and Savior Aron Baynes doesn't need to move. The planet rotates to him.

[silverblackfan]

I know Bonner owns the Chuck Norris thread, but Baynes has potential here to get even more hyped up before he ever puts on a jersey.
Good stuff!
:toast

[xellos88330]

Hopefully this guy will do well!!! Best of luck to you Baynes!!!

[Captivus]

Looking at Spurs schedule, my guess would be that he will play his first game for Spurs next Wednesday against the Pelicans.

:wow

[ace3g]

:tu

[LittleCriminal]

http://cdn.memegenerator.net/instances/400x/15468431.jpg

[DesignatedT]

:tu

[timtonymanu]

Finally. Can't wait to see him on an NBA court.

[Strategic]

And what about that other EuroBasket headline, "Real snatch win in Malaga"?

[ace3g]

Someone on twitter posted this image in response to the news

http://i667.photobucket.com/albums/vv31/PlayaFly210/16gdc82.gif

[dylankerouac]

"You just adopted the hardwood, I was born on it"

:tu

[capek]

And what about that other EuroBasket headline, "Real snatch win in Malaga"?

Snatch always wins. Must have been a slow news day.

Back to the news at hand. I'm excited! I can't wait to see him suited up and getting some minutes with the bench unit.

[Maddog]

This is somewhat interesting
The Spurs will now have 5 players who where in the 2009 NBA draft on their roster. All 2nd rounders or undrafted.
37. Blair
46. Green
53. DeColo
55. Mills
Undrafted- Baynes

[Strategic]

Back to the news at hand. I'm excited! I can't wait to see him suited up and getting some minutes with the bench unit.


Me too. I'm tempered by reason, but since Pop has benched both Bonner and Blair, he is using a three man rotation between the four and five spots. This may immediately open up 8 to 10 minutes of PT for Baynes, unless he proves to be a project. If that happens I look for Rick Jackson of the Toros to get a 10 day contract. Time will out.

[ace3g]

speaking of what number he might wear, how about 31, which he wore for Rytas:

http://blog.mysanantonio.com/spursnation/files/2013/01/aronbaynes2-306x405.jpg

[DapDaGenius]

speaking of what number he might wear, how about 31, which he wore for Rytas:

http://blog.mysanantonio.com/spursnation/files/2013/01/aronbaynes2-306x405.jpg

I don't know why but I feel like 24, would be a great number for him to wear. I think it's lucky.

[Floyd Pacquiao]

I don't know why but I feel like 24, would be a great number for him to wear. I think it's lucky.

The number 24 should be a banned number to wear on the spurs tbh

[Buddy Holly]

I don't know why but I feel like 24, would be a great number for him to wear. I think it's lucky.

To quote Michael Jordan at the 1996 all-star game, "That's a bad luck number, dawg."

[Trill Clinton]

Someone on twitter posted this image in response to the news

http://i667.photobucket.com/albums/vv31/PlayaFly210/16gdc82.gif

:lol

[ace3g]

dan mccarney ‏@danmccarneysaen (https://twitter.com/danmccarneysaen) Andrew Bogut has not played against Aron Baynes but was complimentary of the newest Spur. (Pending physical, of course.)

Baynes couldn't have signed with a better team, Bogut said.

[DapDaGenius]

To quote Michael Jordan at the 1996 all-star game, "That's a bad luck number, dawg."

:lmao Jordan and his superstitions. Didn't he used to wear his UNC shorts under his Bulls shorts? haha

[siraulo23]

21 pages for this scrub lol

jk

but seriously, hopefully he can play well enough to get into the rotation

[cd021]

From Spurs Nation.


Australian center Aron Baynes is en route to San Antonio to finalize his acquisition by the Spurs, according to a Tweet posted earlier on Friday by self-styled European basketball expert David Pick.
Baynes, 26, had been averaging 13.8 points and 9.8 rebounds in Euroleague play for Slovenia’s Union Olimpija before reports broke about two weeks ago that he had reached a multi-year agreement with the Spurs.

http://blog.mysanantonio.com/spursnation/2013/01/18/aussie-center-reportedly-on-his-way/

[Chinook]

Good find. Thanks for posting. :toast

[raybies]

Hard working defenders are usually the exception to pops heiarchy?. Plus there is a need for a pt center. At about 10 minutes at least for season. Then there's height matchups foul trouble situations and it looks favorable for him to get some time. All he has to do is defend and rebound.

I like his chances with his work ethic, growth rate and spurs system.

[TDMVPDPOY]

21 pages for this scrub lol


this

[DesignatedT]

(20 blocks in 26 games)

This was in college or europe?

[BackHome]

You can fix a lot of things on this site but YOU CAN'T FIX STUPID..

[ace3g]

“This system will fit him best,” Bogut said. “He’s definitely not a guy who could go to an isolation team that throws him the ball every time down. He’s better suited to be with a good team concept, and (Gregg) Popovich has a great system for that.”

http://blog.mysanantonio.com/spursnation/2013/01/18/aussie-center-reportedly-on-his-way/

[therealtruth]

The Spurs for the longest time were on a wild goose chase for an athletic, defensive power forward with a mid range jumper that was affordable. However they're finally following my advice to start Splitter and get a backup center.

[KL2]

Recently read an article about Klove owning him in college, it'll be interesting to see them battle now in he nba!

[PingPong]

There are any chances to Barnes be the "new Bonner" or "new Blair", I mean Pop's darling?

:downspin:

[PingPong]

From Spurs Nation.
No idea who Rafael Uehara is or what his credentials are, but he certainly seems to have a decent handle on the newest Spurs.


Rafael.Ueharajoined Mar 10, 2011 last login Feb 02, 2012 posts 128 comments 10Managing Editor of 'The Basketball Post', international scout for NetScouts Basketball, contributor on EuroLeague Adventures, two-time college dropout - going for the record, quitter,and unemployed dude. São Paulo, Brazil. website: The Basketball Post (http://thebasketballpost.com/) email: [email protected]


@rafael_uehara

[objective]

Don't make trouble for this site guys.

Spurs Nation = EXPRESS NEWS

DO NOT POST FULL ARTICLES FROM THE EXPRESS NEWS, SHORT EXCERPTS ONLY

[maverick1948]

Looking at Spurs schedule, my guess would be that he will play his first game for Spurs next Wednesday against the Pelicans.

I doubt he plays against the Pels. He will have no practice time with the team. Counting last nights game, we have 6 games in 9 nights. No off time to work with team. He might see some time at Charlotte and Washington games but not alot. I think he will spend the 1st half of rodeo road trip at Austin getting in shape and learning some of the Spurs offense. Then after the all star break, we get to see him play more. :toast

[ThePop]

He won't really play until next season, we should know this.

[SpursRock20]

He won't really play until next season, we should know this.

Then why did the Spurs not wait until the offseason to get him? I believe they have hopes that he can play 5-10 minutes a game this season.

[AFBlue]

He won't really play until next season, we should know this.

I kind of view it like the Nando situation. They signed him to play, not develop, and there's a legitimate opportunity to grab minutes with sub-par performances from the other competition.

I think it's not likely he'll perform well enough to grab the spot for good given his lack of familiarity with the players and system, but I do think he'll get a shot.

[ThePop]

Then why did the Spurs not wait until the offseason to get him? I believe they have hopes that he can play 5-10 minutes a game this season.

What I mean is he won't have a big role until next year, look how long it took Splitter to finally play.

[Hoops Czar]

What I mean is he won't have a big role until next year, look how long it took Splitter to finally play.

If Pop can find time for De Colo, he can surely find time for Baynes.

[AFBlue]

What I mean is he won't have a big role until next year, look how long it took Splitter to finally play.

Define "big role."

He's not going to surpass Splitter in the starting rotation or Boris as the first big off the bench, but he could take the fourth big role, which could be 10-15 mins/gm.

As I said before, it's not likely. But, I do think he'll get the opportunity.

[AFBlue]

And to top it off...no hyperlink? For shame!

[timvp]

Don't make trouble for this site guys.

Spurs Nation = EXPRESS NEWS

DO NOT POST FULL ARTICLES FROM THE EXPRESS NEWS, SHORT EXCERPTS ONLY


And to top it off...no hyperlink? For shame!

True stories.

[LittleCriminal]

He looks like he's lost weight.... With Brett Brown as his previous Head Coach, It Looks like he's ready for the 4th spot off the Spurs bench!

[Strategic]

I'm waiting for the first confirmed Baynes sighting in town!:corn:

[Strategic]

:corn::jekka

[Strategic]

:drunk

[superbigtime]

http://blog.mysanantonio.com/spursnation/2013/01/18/aussie-center-reportedly-on-his-way/

Nice little article there. Definitely looking forward to the Baynes of my Existence arriving in SA. Is it me or has Pop fallen back on 'Tiago has been injured so much, otherwise he would have been playing more all along, and everyone would see what a good player he is' as an excuse for not having played him more way too much. His injuries seem really overstated and overblown by Pop. Yeah he had some injuries his first year, TWO SEASONS AGO. Pop underplayed him and finally finally finally is playing him the right way. Hell, play him more if foul situation allows.

[objective]

Nice little article there. Definitely looking forward to the Baynes of my Existence arriving in SA. Is it me or has Pop fallen back on 'Tiago has been injured so much, otherwise he would have been playing more all along, and everyone would see what a good player he is' as an excuse for not having played him more way too much. His injuries seem really overstated and overblown by Pop. Yeah he had some injuries his first year, TWO SEASONS AGO. Pop underplayed him and finally finally finally is playing him the right way. Hell, play him more if foul situation allows.

Misleading (lying to) the media with regards to history and his decisions is a Pop staple. Aided and abetted by the slow, cowardly media who parrot whatever Pop says, reality be damned.

Pop could claim that the Spurs have been back-to-back champs the last two years and that Splitter had Ebola-Aids-Scurvy and the Express News would print it without hesitation, context, or fact checking.

[Bruno]

I doubt he plays against the Pels. He will have no practice time with the team. Counting last nights game, we have 6 games in 9 nights. No off time to work with team. He might see some time at Charlotte and Washington games but not alot. I think he will spend the 1st half of rodeo road trip at Austin getting in shape and learning some of the Spurs offense. Then after the all star break, we get to see him play more. :toast

Well, I disagree:
- Baynes is currently in great playing shape. He doesn't need to go Austin to get in shape.
- Baynes will mostly set screen and play some pick and roll on the offensive end. To do that, he doesn't really need to learn the offense and going to Austin won't really help him in that area. Even if Toros theoretically are running Spurs offense, it's far from being the case in reality and the drop of quality between NBA bigmen and D-League bigmen is just huge.

IMO, Baynes will sit at the end of Spurs bench as soon as he is signed. He will mostly play garbage time minutes at first but he could see his role being expanded if he is doing well. He could be send down to Austin but more for 1 game stints like De Colo than for an extended period of time like for Joseph.

[benfti]

Well, I disagree:
- Baynes is currently in great playing shape. He doesn't need to go Austin to get in shape.
- Baynes will mostly set screen and play some pick and roll on the offensive end. To do that, he doesn't really need to learn the offense and going to Austin won't really help him in that area. Even if Toros theoretically are running Spurs offense, it's far from being the case in reality and the drop of quality between NBA bigmen and D-League bigmen is just huge.

IMO, Baynes will sit at the end of Spurs bench as soon as he is signed. He will mostly play garbage time minutes at first but he could see his role being expanded if he is doing well. He could be send down to Austin but more for 1 game stints like De Colo than for an extended period of time like for Joseph.

plus, he knows a lot of the sets already from the Aussie national team

[ace3g]

If he can avg around 4 pts and 4-5 boards by the end of the season that would be great and reasonable expectations.

[objective]

I don't think there will be garbage time minutes against the Hornets, they've played the Spurs close all year.

[objective]

IN CASE ANYONE HAS A THIRST FOR BAYNES GAME FOOTAGE

Here's links to full Adriatic League games from their official site, click the links to see the video, these should work, it was earlier.

Game 16. 13 & 8. 4 steals, 3 blocks. (http://www.abaliga.com/a5851/League_Video/Round_16_Union_Olimpija_Crvena_zvezda_Telekom_full _match_video.html)

Game 15. 14 & 2. (http://www.abaliga.com/a5796/League_Video/Round_15_Split_Union_Olimpija_full_match_video.htm l)

Game 14. 16 & 12. (http://www.abaliga.com/a5786/League_Video/Round_14_Union_Olimpija_Radnicki_full_match_video. html)

Game 13. 14 & 7. 3 steals, 2 blocks. (http://www.abaliga.com/a5743/League_Video/Round_13_Union_Olimpija_Buducnost_VOLI_full_match_ video.html)

Game 12. 12 & 5. (http://www.abaliga.com/a5702/League_Video/Round_12_Siroki_WWin_Union_Olimpija_full_match_vid eo.html)

Game 11. 19 & 14 w/ 2 blocks. (http://www.abaliga.com/a5662/League_Video/Round_11_Union_Olimpija_Cibona_full_match_video.ht ml)

Game 10. 13 & 10. (http://www.abaliga.com/a5622/League_Video/Round_10_Krka_Union_Olimpija_full_match_video.html )

Game 09. 16 & 4. BERTANS plays in this game and has 8 points in 25 minutes. (http://www.abaliga.com/a5588/League_Video/Round_9_Union_Olimpija_Partizan_mt_s_full_match_vi deo.html)

Game 08. 24 & 4. (http://www.abaliga.com/a5539/League_Video/Round_8_Union_Olimpija_Szolnoki_Olaj_full_match_vi deo.html)

Game 07. 3 & 4. (http://www.abaliga.com/a5494/League_Video/Round_7_Union_Olimpija_MZT_Skopje_Aerodroma_full_m atch_video.html)

Game 06. 6 & 2. (http://www.abaliga.com/a5448/League_Video/Round_6_Igokea_Union_Olimpija_full_match_video.htm l)

Game 05. 14 & 5. (http://www.abaliga.com/a5400/League_Video/Round_5_Union_Olimpija_Cedevita_full_match_video.h tml)

Game 04. 11 & 2. (http://www.abaliga.com/a5344/League_Video/Round_4_Zadar_Union_Olimpija_full_match_video.html )

Game 03. 8 & 3. (http://www.abaliga.com/a5302/League_Video/Round_3_Crvena_zvezda_Beograd_DIVA_Union_Olimpija_ full_match_video.html)

Game 02. 6 & 1. (http://www.abaliga.com/a5260/League_Video/Round_2_HL_Union_Olimpija_Split.html)

Game 01. 12 & 3. (http://www.abaliga.com/a5250/League_Video/Round_1_Radnicki_Union_Olimpija_full_match_video.. html)

[MR-Clutch]

Confirmed sighting at the utsa game. Not sure how to upload a picture from my phone.

[FuzzyLumpkins]

objective. you are the man.

[objective]

thanks.

It's even better. Each game has it's own play-by-play section like NBA.com only a little more vague on the clock time. Here's his results (http://www.abaliga.com/player/2183/Aron_Baynes) page. Clicking on a game can then filter to PBP in case anyone wants to fast forward to blocks, steals, scores, turnovers, etc.

[timvp]

Confirmed sighting at the utsa game. Not sure how to upload a picture from my phone.

You can email to [email protected] and I'll put it up for you, tbh.

[Strategic]

FSSW gives me the 30 minute pregame and I appreciate the hell out of that, but then they black out the F__ing game..........bastards!!

[MR-Clutch]

http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/webkit-fake-url://8F0E6FEA-F0C7-4A8F-89B5-16DCEF8899C6/imagejpeg

[timvp]

http://www.spurstalk.com/baynes-at-utsa.JPG

Here is the picture of Baynes at UTSA courtesy of MR-Clutch

Nice job :tu

[ace3g]

MR-Clutch (http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/member.php?u=33595) :tu

[loveforthegame]

Thanks man. :tu

[Strategic]

http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/webkit-fake-url://8F0E6FEA-F0C7-4A8F-89B5-16DCEF8899C6/imagejpeg Excellent!

[HI-FI]

good job Mr. Clutch. Great to see he's here, it feels good to have more bigs on the team.

[adonis827]

Baynes is the one on black jacket I would think?

[DesignatedT]

Baynes is the one on black jacket I would think?

The one with the glasses.

[HI-FI]

The one with the glasses.

wrong, Baynes is wearing red and looks frumpy from this angle.

[RD2191]

lmfao designated t trying to troll us

[SpursRock20]

The one with the glasses.

That's obviously Manu.

[Floyd Pacquiao]

Baynes looks about 6'5 in that pic tbh

[SpurPadre]

Baynes looks about 6'5 in that pic tbh

Still taller than Blair tbh

[BillMc]

Cool! Thanks:toast

[Spur|n|Austin]

:clap

[manustarting2gd]

Baynes train!!!

[hater]

LMAO what d fuck this midget gonna do for us? :pctoss

[MR-Clutch]

No problem guys, just doing my civic duty to this great fanbase and website.This guy was huge, he had a wide shoulder frame and thick arms. Jeromie hill, the guy he is talking to, is a 6'8 power foward for UTSA, and baynes dwarfed both in height and frame. All I know is that Bayne's physical attributes have me excited to see what he brings to the table.

[Buddy Holly]

LMAO what d fuck this midget gonna do for us? :pctoss

Midget? NSIS.

[99 Problems]

Just trying to push this thread over to page 24. Thanks for reading just the same.

[The Btown Spur]

I also saw him at the UTSA vs. TX ST. game. Beginning of the 2nd half UTSA player Jeromie Hill (aussie player who is injured but is usually a good player on UTSA) walks out and sees Baynes and seems very surprised to seem him. So am i honestly, but he is a big ass dude, and glad hes on our side.

[TDMVPDPOY]

lol clowns in here gettin excited of luc longley clone

[Boomersgold]

lol clowns in here gettin excited of luc longley clone

Luc Longley clone > Blair or Bonner. Fact.

[Captivus]

lol clowns in here gettin excited of luc longley clone

Kmon men...50% of your posts are to criticize other posts from other people.
Dont live that life, trust me.

[Samr.]

Uhm, I'd be pretty happy to see a Luc Longley clone as the Spurs' 4 big. Hell I'd consider it a success if we got a Cherokee Parks clone.

Sounds to me like Baynes is more of the Eduardo Najera type just bigger. Can't say I'm too upset about that.

[BackHome]

We got our Frank Brickowski..:)

[LittleCriminal]

I thought for sure I'd wake up and see Spurs Sign Aron Baynes somewhere.... I mean they already showed him where all the white ho's are at last night...(UTSA GAME)
What else is there to see? The Alamo?? Pfff.
Sign this dude already!!!

Lamont needs To GTFOH ASAP!!

[KL2]

I thought for sure I'd wake up and see Spurs Sign Aron Baynes somewhere.... I mean they already showed him where all the white ho's are at last night...(UTSA GAME)
What else is there to see? The Alamo?? Pfff.
Sign this dude already!!!

Lamont needs To GTFOH ASAP!!


I think he may need to get his physical first which'd most likely be done by the Spurs' medical staff, he's still gotta resolve his issues with his passport first though.

[benfti]

lol clowns in here gettin excited of luc longley clone
OK. Starting centre in the best team probably ever to take the court.


You really have No clue do you?

[Buddy Holly]

I think he may need to get his physical first which'd most likely be done by the Spurs' medical staff, he's still gotta resolve his issues with his passport first though.

He's in San Antonio, his passport issue is resolved.

[LittleCriminal]

I think he may need to get his physical first which'd most likely be done by the Spurs' medical staff, he's still gotta resolve his issues with his passport first though.

You stated "Most Likely"... implying the Spurs Organization could possibly let another teams medical staff perform the physical on a player the Spurs want??

I am in no way an expert on passports but from what i've gathered you need a passport to enter this country legally right?
With him being in San Antonio, we can assume he's resolved his so called "passport issues" or is he here illegally to you?

[SupremeGuy]

Let's get this guy here already... I wanna see Pop play with our new toy.

[99 Problems]

Luc Longley, more rings than some people have fingers.

By the way he was one of Brett Brown's assistants on the recent Aussie team that the Bayne Train was part of.

[benfti]

Luc Longley, more rings than some people have fingers.

By the way he was one of Brett Brown's assistants on the recent Aussie team that the Bayne Train was part of.

Indeed, just to educate TDMVPDPOY who is clearly 12, That bulls team ran the triangle, Jackson needed an passing center to anchor that offense and Longley was the man. He might not have been the most flashy player on that team, but he didnt need to be, scrubs dont start on teams with that won many rings.

first he rips into Gaze, now Longley, who is this guy and how do i get him deported for crimes against the crown?

[objective]

I've been reviewing some of the games I posted. Here are some early impressions:

So far, the good, after watching chunks of 3 games including every made field goal:

As reported by others, he does gather and get up to dunk very fast. No wasted motions or pumpfakes or bumbles, if he gets the ball clear underneath either off a pick and roll or a penetrate and dump, he immediately goes up and finishes.

He sets his picks long enough to actually contact and pick off a player more than I'm used to seeing an NBA big man. Nothing bone-shattering, but NBA guys rarely even make contact.

His own post game offense seems fine. I've seen him get the ball in the post, go to work and score across several games. Pretty impressive actually.

Also seen him nail a couple of free throw line jumpers, but also miss a few jumpers.

His post defense seems adequate.

the bad:

I do not enjoy his defense outside of the post. I wasn't thrilled with his pick and roll defense, how he recovers.

More importantly across the chunks I've watched I really didn't like his face up defense away from the rim. Free throw line and beyond, his own man was getting right by him for layups and dunks. Including a big, lumbering fat guy who sauntered past for a score.

[raybies]

So... he can guard centers and can benefit from team d. Fine on the offensive...

Pick and roll defense sounds like the big issue. Once a scouting report gets out, if a team sees him making a real contribution they say lets just run some pick and roll and get their fifth option out here...

[TDMVPDPOY]

Indeed, just to educate TDMVPDPOY who is clearly 12, That bulls team ran the triangle, Jackson needed an passing center to anchor that offense and Longley was the man. He might not have been the most flashy player on that team, but he didnt need to be, scrubs dont start on teams with that won many rings.

first he rips into Gaze, now Longley, who is this guy and how do i get him deported for crimes against the crown?

if luc longley was so good as u claim him to be.....how come he did jackshit in minnesota?

[benfti]

if luc longley was so good as u claim him to be.....how come he did jackshit in minnesota?

Wrong team, wrong system. BTW, im not saying he was a champion by any stretch of the imagination. But he was better than you are giving him credit for.

Whats more interesting about your initial claim is you claim Baynes as a Longley clone as if that is either a) accurate or b) a bad thing.

Its neither, he is not a clone of Longley, there is no similarity to either of their games except for the fact that they both bang down low and can rebound. I cant for the life of me see how a similarity like that can be a bad thing. Offensively, they are very different.

[hsxvvd]

Longley was also 7'2". Baynes is no more than 6'10".

Longley also played at a time when 7ft white stiffs were an NBA must have, not like today when teams prefer PF's pretending to be C's.

Baynes is physical, but I'll be honest, I didn't think he was NBA material skill wise.

[TDMVPDPOY]

i wonder if baynes is even good compared to that clown in the NBL playin on the hawks who wears a bandana...hahhahahaha fkn nbl

[DanAu]

My time here is so much happier thanks to some kind soul who mentioned how to ignore TDMVPDPOY in a past thread, *relaxed sigh*

[TDMVPDPOY]

My time here is so much happier thanks to some kind soul who mentioned how to ignore TDMVPDPOY in a past thread, *relaxed sigh*

look at this clown

[benfti]

My time here is so much happier thanks to some kind soul who mentioned how to ignore TDMVPDPOY in a past thread, *relaxed sigh*

fantastic, thanks for that.

[Capt Bringdown]

I think the Spurs would have been happy if Blair, Bonner, Kurt Thomas, Dice or any of the other parade of stiffs we've had in recent years were as effective as Luke Longley. Looking forward to seeing what this Baynes character brings to the table.

[BG_Spurs_Fan]

My time here is so much happier thanks to some kind soul who mentioned how to ignore TDMVPDPOY in a past thread, *relaxed sigh*

Timvp should make this the default setting for the site - TDMVPDPOY ignored - and with a 'unignore' function for masochists.

[Ice009]

I didn't get to see much of Longley playing for the Bulls. What kind of player was he?

I recall him getting a big contract after the left the Bulls, and it seemed like he was stealing money as he didn't get on the court much due to injuries.

[Two10Whitey]

Were Bulls fans chanting Luuuuc or boooo? I could never tell.

[Spur|n|Austin]

My time here is so much happier thanks to some kind soul who mentioned how to ignore TDMVPDPOY in a past thread, *relaxed sigh*

At least you learned early young grass hopper.

[Ed Helicopter Jones]

Longley was 7'2" and 300 lbs. He had soft hands and was a great passser with a decent mid-range game. He had decent foot work but was not an 'above-the-rim' type player at all. What made his career was that he fit extremely well into the Bulls system.


The only true similarity between Longley and Baynes is their country of origin.

I'm with whoever said they'd take Longley as the Spurs 3rd or 4th big.

[BackHome]

We only have four players over 6'10 and unless you want Bonner playing Center then he is going to be our second center. Now we need to find our second point guard..............

[SpursRock20]

Perkins vs. Baynes

Who you got?

[LASToog36]

when is he supposed to suit up im anxious

[ace3g]

when is he supposed to suit up im anxious

Spurs will probably announce his signing either later today or tomorrow when the team gets back to SA. Most likely will be in uniform vs Hornets.

[objective]

I think I must have watched 40-50% of his made field goals in the Adriatic League. And he impressed me a lot by his ability to score with either hand from the post. I think I liked his shots with his left even more than his right.

[loveforthegame]

Wrong thread.

[ace3g]

Well if the Spurs have a shootaround tomorrow, we will hopefully get a first look at Baynes with the team.

[ace3g]

Patrick Mills ‏@Patty_Mills (https://twitter.com/Patty_Mills) Calling all Aussies that are in Texas... I repeat... Calling all Aussies!! Where you at??

Just like with Diaw and Nando, I wonder if Aron will stay with Patty until he finds a place.

[Nero5]

He has potential to be the 10 hard rebounds in a game with big banging opposition. The spurs lack this as timmy cannot do it all.

[TrainOfThought5]

Perkins vs. Baynes

Who you got?

Nobody wins versus Thunderefs.

but if its true that Baynes has a serviceable jumpshot out to the free throw line and a couple polished post moves you have to go with Baynes. because he wont be an idiot like Perkins.

[jermaine]

He has potential to be the 10 hard rebounds in a game with big banging opposition. The spurs lack this as timmy cannot do it all.

I just wanna see someone in a Spurs uniform go up an dunk with some authority besides 50yr old Duncan. Lol. I was watching the game last night saying to myself, "its sad Duncan is dam near on his last leg an still gotta carry this young team. An I've been telling my wife. The Spurs dont have anyone that you can count on to hit a midrange shot. Neal is the closest thing but that if his head is on that game. He's also undersized. Tony can blow past people an spin his way to the rim, an if he dont get a foul called he's swinging his arms in the air like he got shot. But even his midrange game aint dependable. An this talk about Jack, im a Jack fan. But im sure his contract is our only way of getting someone decent. Idk if it's his rap career or what but he's starting to get on my nerves. He gets blew past by everyone. Spencer Haws did a up an uder on that fool 8ft away from the rim. I know Pop seen what I seen cuz he took his ass out an he didnt return.

[BG_Spurs_Fan]

Parker and Duncan have both been good with the midrange J this season. Spurs offense hasn't depended too much on midrange shots for as long as Pop's been around.

[jermaine]

Parker and Duncan have both been good with the midrange J this season. Spurs offense hasn't depended too much on midrange shots for as long as Pop's been around.

Your so right. I was thinking is that why we blow so many layups. All I ever see in the background of all the spurs practice videos is them shooting 3s. Someone passing them the ball out the paint. Or freethrows. I might be tripping about the midrange thing but is their not doubling Tim, we need someone to take someone off the dribjle an be able to hit a pullup midrange I think.

[Maddog]

Patrick Mills ‏@Patty_Mills (https://twitter.com/Patty_Mills) Calling all Aussies that are in Texas... I repeat... Calling all Aussies!! Where you at??

Just like with Diaw and Nando, I wonder if Aron will stay with Patty until he finds a place.
Well at least he will have someone other than coach Brown who can speak his native language with

[benfti]

Well at least he will have someone other than coach Brown who can speak his native language with
English?

[ABC]

Well at least he will have someone other than coach Brown who can speak his native language with

:lol

[LittleCriminal]

WTF??? Get this guy on the Roster already!!!

What are they waiting for??
Lamont's acl's to grow back??

[look_at_g_shred]

Any news regarding Baynes' debut?

[will_spurs]

English?

Australian, benfti-o.

[OZspurs]

happy to see another aussie joining spurs

[LittleCriminal]

Spurs will probably announce his signing either later today or tomorrow when the team gets back to SA. Most likely will be in uniform vs Hornets.

So sometime yesterday or today huh??
Inside source or a guesstimate?
Not hating on you at all... just curious.

[objective]

It's becoming frustrating.

He was here this weekend. After no official signing, I figured, "Oh, must be because of the weekend." Then yesterday, it must have been because of the holiday.

Why nothing so far today?

Unsettling . . . and suspicious.

Of course, now that I've posted this, no doubt the announcement will come shortly to make me look bad. You can all thank me later.

[ace3g]

So sometime yesterday or today huh??
Inside source or a guesstimate?
Not hating on you at all... just curious.

No inside sources, I wish I did though, lol.

I made the assumption that they would have a shootaround today, but that isn't the case from the tweet below:

Maximum Sports ‏@MaxSportsSA (https://twitter.com/MaxSportsSA) Spurs say they probably won't have injury update on Kawhi Leonard's leg gash, but hopefully tomorrow by shoot around.

So tomorrow should be the official press release/announcement.

[LittleCriminal]

No inside sources, I wish I did though, lol.

I made the assumption that they would have a shootaround today, but that isn't the case from the tweet below:

Maximum Sports ‏@MaxSportsSA (https://twitter.com/MaxSportsSA) Spurs say they probably won't have injury update on Kawhi Leonard's leg gash, but hopefully tomorrow by shoot around.

So tomorrow should be the official press release/announcement.

Thanks for the Info.....hopefully you and Objective are right...I can't wait till the deal is done.
Hopefully Lamont will be traded soon.

[DapDaGenius]

Timvp should make this the default setting for the site - TDMVPDPOY ignored - and with a 'unignore' function for masochists.

:lmao

[LittleCriminal]

For the kids....

mas·och·ist [mas-uh-kist] Show IPA
noun1.Psychiatry. a person who has masochism (http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/masochism), the condition in which (http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/which) sexual or other gratification dependson one's suffering physical pain or humiliation.

2.a person who is gratified by pain, degradation, etc., that is self-imposed or imposed by others.

3.a person who finds pleasure in self-denial, submissiveness, etc.

[Uriel]

Well at least he will have someone other than coach Brown who can speak his native language with
:lmao
:lmao
:lmao
:lmao
:lmao

[objective]

another business day in the books, still no signing.

Hope Baynes passed his physical.

Maybe they're waiting until after the Hornets game to save another 1/82 share of his salary off of the cap number, I don't know.

[timvp]

I'll get worried if it's not completed tomorrow. Today was an off-day so it's understandable that it either didn't happen or wasn't made official yet.

[LittleCriminal]

If they don't announce soon I'm going to end up like this Lady!!!
Only I'd be Screaming... "Lamont's Gotta get Outta Here"!!


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SYiv76qRCkA

[benefactor]

Fucking shit...step away from the ledge folks.

[Bruno]

Parker said on his radio show yesterday that Spurs have just signed an Aussie. If this deal hit a snag, it was today but I highly doubt it's the case. My guess is that Baynes will be oficially signed tomorrow.

Spurs financial best financial interest is to wait until tomorrow and it shouldn't even hurt Baynes. Let's say that Baynes and Spurs have agreed to a $400K salary for the rest of the season.
If Spurs sign him today, Baynes will get $400K and his contract will count for $432K against the luxury tax.
If Spurs sign him tomorrow, Baynes will get $400K and his contract will count for $427K against the luxury tax.
By waiting, Spurs save $5K by day and Baynes will be paid the same money.

[timvp]

^That's some pretty good goods.

[benfti]

^That's some pretty good goods.

[raybies]

^That's some pretty good goods.

Yah some front office needs to make him Vp already..

[td4mvp21]

Can this guy contribute right away? And more importantly, will Pop play him?

[benfti]

Can this guy contribute right away? And more importantly, will Pop play him?

He is big who plays big. That can help, the last question, your guess is as good as anyones. It must be said Pop does like Aussies, he has a tshirt

http://blog.mysanantonio.com/spursnation/files/2011/06/Pop-610-306x295.jpg

[benfti]

Its interesting to note. When/Should Baynes step on the court in an Spurs jersey 2 records would have been set.

1. There would have been more Australians play for San Antonio than any other NBA team (Previous record set by the Bulls, Longley, Anstey and Schenscher, then equaled by the Spurs, Gaze, Heal and Mills)
2. Never before has any NBA team had 2 Australians on its active roster. (Assuming something mysterious doesnt happen to Patty Mills)

Probably doesnt mean much to you blokes but as an Aussie and lifetime Spurs fan I'm proud of that.

[Dingle Barry]

Spurs financial best financial interest is to wait until tomorrow and it shouldn't even hurt Baynes. Let's say that Baynes and Spurs have agreed to a $400K salary for the rest of the season.
If Spurs sign him today, Baynes will get $400K and his contract will count for $432K against the luxury tax.
If Spurs sign him tomorrow, Baynes will get $400K and his contract will count for $427K against the luxury tax.
By waiting, Spurs save $5K by day and Baynes will be paid the same money.

You are one baaad mothafucka.

[HI-FI]

Its interesting to note. When/Should Baynes step on the court in an Spurs jersey 2 records would have been set.

1. There would have been more Australians play for San Antonio than any other NBA team (Previous record set by the Bulls, Longley, Anstey and Schenscher, then equaled by the Spurs, Gaze, Heal and Mills)
2. Never before has any NBA team had 2 Australians on its active roster. (Assuming something mysterious doesnt happen to Patty Mills)

Probably doesnt mean much to you blokes but as an Aussie and lifetime Spurs fan I'm proud of that.
hopefully Mills doesn't disappear from some Last Wave/mystical Aborigine shit.

it's kind of crazy how many Aussie fans are on here tbh. i'm cool with it, as long as Aussies don't start pushing for their countrymen over the team's interests. Boomersgold is pretty bad about this tbh.

[Boomersgold]

hopefully Mills doesn't disappear from some Last Wave/mystical Aborigine shit.

it's kind of crazy how many Aussie fans are on here tbh. i'm cool with it, as long as Aussies don't start pushing for their countrymen over the team's interests. Boomersgold is pretty bad about this tbh.

Actually, even though I'm biased for Patty Mills, I've always cheered on the team even when Patty doesn't get playing time. In fact, besides asking how "Patty's done so far", if he's afforded playing time on the court, 95% of my posts are me cheering on the other players on the team. Check my history....

Also, I'm a fan of Patty because I was a huge fan of him when he played for Saint Mary's, not because Patty's an Australian. I'm not biased for Australians. I've mentioned many times on here that I'm not particularly a fan of Baynes, and had never heard of him until his appearance on the national squad. I take being accused of being biased for "my countrymen" as being an insult, tbh. It pisses me off.

[Boomersgold]

hopefully Mills doesn't disappear from some Last Wave/mystical Aborigine shit.

it's kind of crazy how many Aussie fans are on here tbh. i'm cool with it, as long as Aussies don't start pushing for their countrymen over the team's interests. Boomersgold is pretty bad about this tbh.

Checked my history yet, buddy?

[HI-FI]

Checked my history yet, buddy?
:lol
no, and I don't plan on it. i got better things to do, like sleep. I just know you mention Patty a lot over guys who are just as deserving like Nando, CoJo etc...You aren't as bad as playblair, i'll give you that. I'm actually a fan of Mills being on the team fwiw.

[TrainOfThought5]

"Check My History" is going to become the newest ST Macho catchphrase.

[Boomersgold]

:lol
no, and I don't plan on it. i got better things to do, like sleep. I just know you mention Patty a lot over guys who are just as deserving like Nando, CoJo etc...You aren't as bad as playblair, i'll give you that. I'm actually a fan of Mills being on the team fwiw.

Just a few snippets of the things I post on this forum (to show that I'm not THAT bad of a poster) :lol

Re: Quick Grades: Spurs @ Hawks - Jan. 19 (http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=208289&p=6306527#post6306527)
Bonner flat out balled tonight. Does his performance warrant bringing him back in the regular rotation?
Re: Game Thread: Spurs @ Hawks - Jan. 19 @ 6 PM CST (http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=208285&p=6306303#post6306303)
Tony Parker for MVP!
Re: Game Thread: Spurs @ Hawks - Jan. 19 @ 6 PM CST (http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=208285&p=6306216#post6306216)
Parker to Tiago!
Re: Game Thread: Spurs @ Hawks - Jan. 19 @ 6 PM CST (http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=208285&p=6306193#post6306193)
Gary Neal 2 from 9.
Re: Game Thread: Spurs @ Hawks - Jan. 19 @ 6 PM CST (http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=208285&p=6306087#post6306087)
Shooting a three off a pass isn't a "hero possession". He's not playing well to start the second half though.
Re: Game Thread: Spurs @ Hawks - Jan. 19 @ 6 PM CST (http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=208285&p=6306018#post6306018)
Bonner's destroying the Hawks by himself.
Re: Game Thread: Spurs @ Hawks - Jan. 19 @ 6 PM CST (http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=208285&p=6306008#post6306008)
Matt Bonner showing that his regular seasons statistics of shooting above 50% from the three point line is no lie.
Re: Game Thread: Spurs @ Hawks - Jan. 19 @ 6 PM CST (http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=208285&p=6305978#post6305978)
What a pass by TP!
Re: Game Thread: Spurs vs. Warriors - Jan. 18 (http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=208251&p=6304505#post6304505)
Jackson with the Pete Maravich ball fake!
Re: Game Thread: Spurs vs. Warriors - Jan. 18 (http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=208251&p=6304530#post6304530)
Has Jackson been having lessons from Hakeem?
Re: Game Thread: Spurs vs. Warriors - Jan. 18 (http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=208251&p=6304361#post6304361)
Holy Crap! Tiago with the monster rebound!

Patty's my favorite player, and like everyone's favorite players, we cheer for them a little more than we do the other players.

[HI-FI]

^it's all good. I don't really care where our players come from, as long as they represent the team and community well. i think Mills is a good value, and it's cool he's an Aborigine as well.

"Check My History" is going to become the newest ST Macho catchphrase.
:lol

[benfti]

nah dude, you bang the Patty drum way to much, and not rating Baynes seems to be more of a "see im not biased towards Aussies" diversion tactic, anyone who knows ball down here knows he is a legitimate prospect because of the tools he has, and how hard he has worked and measurably improved on the areas he was low on a few years ago.

FWIW I think Patty has potential to end up a starter somewhere one day, The tools he has got, Speed and shooting when on are at the elite level of the league, CP3 himself says Patty is the fastest guy with the ball in his hands in the NBA, and when he gets hot that speed and his eye make him very tough for opposing teams let alone guards.

Baynes I am keen to see how what he has compares to other guys in the NBA. But if you dont rate him, you really have not seem him properly.

[Solid D]

Its interesting to note. When/Should Baynes step on the court in an Spurs jersey 2 records would have been set.

1. There would have been more Australians play for San Antonio than any other NBA team (Previous record set by the Bulls, Longley, Anstey and Schenscher, then equaled by the Spurs, Gaze, Heal and Mills)
2. Never before has any NBA team had 2 Australians on its active roster. (Assuming something mysterious doesnt happen to Patty Mills)

Probably doesnt mean much to you blokes but as an Aussie and lifetime Spurs fan I'm proud of that.

We'll need to keep an eye on the sudden rise in population of Aussies in San Antonio, lately. When you hear the term "breeding like rabbits", you automatically think of Australia...plus Aussies always go around saying "mate" to people. Coincidence? I think not. :smokin

[Boomersgold]

nah dude, you bang the Patty drum way to much, and not rating Baynes seems to be more of a "see im not biased towards Aussies" diversion tactic, anyone who knows ball down here knows he is a legitimate prospect because of the tools he has, and how hard he has worked and measurably improved on the areas he was low on a few years ago.

FWIW I think Patty has potential to end up a starter somewhere one day, The tools he has got, Speed and shooting when on are at the elite level of the league, CP3 himself says Patty is the fastest guy with the ball in his hands in the NBA, and when he gets hot that speed and his eye make him very tough for opposing teams let alone guards.

Baynes I am keen to see how what he has compares to other guys in the NBA. But if you dont rate him, you really have not seem him properly.

I never said that I didn't think that Baynes can be a legitimate prospect for the Spurs. He's an obvious upgrade over Blair and Bonner, but I'm still not a fan of his, like El Nono isn't a fan of Parkers' (even though El Nono respects his talents). I was very impressed with the way that he performed at the Olympics though, but I'm not sure how he'll fair in the NBA.

I don't think that you can talk, buddy. Almost all of your 125 posts have to do with Patty Mills or Baynes. I've got no problems with being biased with our fellow countrymen, but I'm not someone who blindly becomes a fan of someone just because they came from the same country that I live in.

btw, didn't you say that you work at the AIS? Have you worked with Baynes before, and if so, what role do you see him playing in the NBA?

[benfti]

you sure?

Actually I post on here because my brother-in-law, a Texas native, who posts here said "hey, you should come and post on this site" you know a lot about Aussie basketball and TDMVPDPOY is a poor representation. Actually since I have been coming here I think most of the Aussies who post here are really good.

I talk lot about those guys, because I know a lot about those guys, and would like to share that with people who might be interested.

[Boomersgold]

you sure?

Actually I post on here because my brother-in-law, a Texas native, who posts here said "hey, you should come and post on this site" you know a lot about Aussie basketball and TDMVPDPOY is a poor representation. Actually since I have been coming here I think most of the Aussies who post here are really good.

I talk lot about those guys, because I know a lot about those guys, and would like to share that with people who might be interested.

Fair enough, you should post here more often then. You obviously know a lot about Baynes and Mills...

[benfti]

I worked in sports science at the AIS through a period that had Baynes and Patty go through. Baynes has come a long way since then, Patty we all knew would make it, cards just had to fall his way, Baynes showed glimpses but needed to do a lot of work as he came from a long way back having picked up the sport so late, his progression has been nothing short of extraordinary he is an enormous competitor, and he gets angry ina good way and thats when he plays his best ball. I think he will be a solid back up 4/5 in the NBA and see rotation minutes. I am really looking forward to see him get stuck into Demarcus Cousins....

[Boomersgold]

I worked in sports science at the AIS through a period that had Baynes and Patty go through. Baynes has come a long way since then, Patty we all knew would make it, cards just had to fall his way, Baynes showed glimpses but needed to do a lot of work as he came from a long way back having picked up the sport so late, his progression has been nothing short of extraordinary he is an enormous competitor, and he gets angry ina good way and thats when he plays his best ball. I think he will be a solid back up 4/5 in the NBA and see rotation minutes. I am really looking forward to see him get stuck into Demarcus Cousins....

Thanks, man. Looking forward to seeing Baynes in a Spurs uniform.

[racm]

Wonder what his jersey number will be.

[benfti]

Matthew Dellavedova now there is a kid who just needs to get a shot, he could be pick 60 and will work his way onto a roster and eventually start.

[racm]

Matthew Dellavedova now there is a kid who just needs to get a shot, he could be pick 60 and will work his way onto a roster and eventually start.

He could eventually replace Neal. :lol

At this rate we could start most of the Australian NT at the end of the 2014 regular season.