Kyle Anderson Named Summer League MVP

[BatManu20]

Congrats, tbh. KA's taken a lot of heat on this board (way more than any 30th overall pick should, tbh). Glad to see him play well this summer. Now let's go win the Championship tomorrow.

622952664159125504


622955119689142272


https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CKUsxlCUcAAAA-O.png

[ElNono]

congrats :toast

[Robz4000]

Congrats Fathead, you earned it.

[timvp]

Damn, nice job. I thought they were going to give it to Curry's brother for chucking a million shots.

Well deserved, tbh.

Best summer league showing (ignoring Salt Lake City) by a Spurs player since Tony Parker (not counting Kawhi's cameo). Simmons' performance is top ten -- if not top five.

[r0drig0lac]

http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/images/smilies/bobo.gif

[Mugen]

PHATHEAD.

[dafonearth]

Great job Slowmo! Can't wait to see you contribute to our 2016 championship team! :lobt2:

[Mugen]

the assist count would be higher if the Spurs weren't playing two Make-a-Wish Foundation players like Cherry and Atkins tbh.

[benefactor]

Vicarage of Simmons is unimpressed

[HarlemHeat37]

Staaaaaaaccckkkkkeeedddd..

[SAGirl]

He's not going back down to the d'league! This guy was player of the month in Feb. in the D'league, led them to semifinals last year, now summer league MVP. He is an NBA player and too skilled for the dleague. He may not play a whole lot this year, but dleague is not going to help him get better at this point. He has to be challenged in real games now.

[DJR210]

Dat confidence :tu

[steeledl]

Vicarage of Simmons is unimpressed

Yes... we are :depressed

[alfahdlan]

Congratz, Slowmo!!!

[DesignatedT]

:tu

[MultiTroll]

[QUOTE=BatManu20;8130460]Congrats, tbh. /QUOTE]
It's a positive.
Anyone got a list of previous MVPs from this league?

[BatManu20]

the assist count would be higher if the Spurs weren't playing two Make-a-Wish Foundation players like Cherry and Atkins tbh.

:lol

[LiSpurs516]

the assist count would be higher if the Spurs weren't playing two Make-a-Wish Foundation players like Cherry and Atkins tbh.
Agreed, KA had some nice feeds. Half the team was chucking bricks

[Poolboy5623]

I'm starting to warm up to this Anderson kid..

[SPURt]

I for one like Anderson's game, but did not see this one coming. Congrats to him! May his impact be swift and his role grow accordingly!

[SPURt]

the assist count would be higher if the Spurs weren't playing two Make-a-Wish Foundation players like Cherry and Atkins tbh.
Hahaha!

[timvp]

This is why Buford went from "we need a veteran wing next" to "F it, who has Bonner's number?", tbh.

[Poolboy5623]

I think he can play small mins...the competition will obviously step up, but he'll be sorrounded by much better players. Interested to see how he performs. Then again, with Manu, (at his age)he may play more than I'm thinking.

[alfahdlan]

:bobo

[AFBlue]

Well deserved tbqh. Simmons had more highlight reel plays, but Anderson carried the team for long stretches. I like what I see from both though tbqh.

[SupremeGuy]

Nice. :toast

[dafonearth]

now we got 2 summer league mvps and 3 finals mvps on our team!

[Spurs9]

I started to like him more over the summer league, wasn't too impressed in the past, but he def has the skills.

[alfahdlan]

:lobt2:

[SpursFan86]

Vicarage of Simmons is unimpressed

Simmons vs. Anderson is the new Kawhi vs. Parker :lol

[cutewizard]

yiiiiiiiiiiihaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa

[cutewizard]

Kyle Anderson is very cute

[cutewizard]

now we got 2 summer league mvps and 3 finals mvps on our team!

plus Manu who would have been Finals MVP too

[cutewizard]

I for one like Anderson's game, but did not see this one coming. Congrats to him! May his impact be swift and his role grow accordingly!


AMEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEN TO THAT

[YGWHI]

:tu


Hope Kyle can translate his game to the NBA level, I expect Pop gives him a ton of minutes in the preseason games.

[SAGirl]

Love this instagram of a post up move he put up today... not a hammer dunk ( I love those too), but it is special in its own way:
https://instagram.com/p/5Vy39xJ_Ll/

https://instagram.com/p/5Vy39xJ_Ll/

[cutewizard]

we are a team of MVPs

Marjanovic, Serbian League MVP

[cutewizard]

LaMarcus could be the regular season MVP this year, hopefully

YOU HEARD IT FROM ME FIRST!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

LOL

[horsielove]

congrats KA, tbh imo fwiw.

[spursgu]

That's nice. I'm rooting for Kyle. Hopefully he keeps getting better and will make the rotation this season.

[cutewizard]

Kyle rulesssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss

[SnakeBoy]

He's not going back down to the d'league! This guy was player of the month in Feb. in the D'league, led them to semifinals last year, now summer league MVP. He is an NBA player and too skilled for the dleague. He may not play a whole lot this year, but dleague is not going to help him get better at this point. He has to be challenged in real games now.

Yep, the purpose of the D league is to learn and there's nothing left for him to learn there.

[Kikoluna]

Good job beating guys that will be playing in the Dominican Republic league. I have converted and now see Kyle's greatness.

[Strategic]

Hopefully another up and coming pop star.

[ceperez]

Was McCallum last year's Summer League MVP?

[Nathan89]

"playmaker" with 1.5 assists.

[100%duncan]

Simmons and Kyle Anderson performing much better than D'Bustelo Russell and poor mans oden julius randle

[Kikoluna]

"playmaker" with 1.5 assists.
Thank you

[Spurtacular]

I find it odd that they give out the SLMVP before the final game is played.

[exstatic]

Good job beating guys that will be playing in the Dominican Republic league. I have converted and now see Kyle's greatness.

Top 3 picks from this year's draft were there, sport.

[littlecoyotecoin]

Was McCallum last year's Summer League MVP?

Yes. Pretty sure he was.

[r0drig0lac]

Good job beating guys that will be playing in the Dominican Republic league. I have converted and now see Kyle's greatness.http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/images/smilies/smirolleyes.gif

[lefty]

2 great signings, now this

http://i.imgur.com/Vs3DqJG.gif

[100%duncan]

I find it odd that they give out the SLMVP before the final game is played.
Theres also a fmvp iirc

[BatManu20]

"playmaker" with 1.5 assists.


the assist count would be higher if the Spurs weren't playing two Make-a-Wish Foundation players like Cherry and Atkins tbh.

[Richie]

McCallum was the championship game MVP, Glen Rice Jr was the MVP

[HI-FI]

Very cool and well deserved. I like his game a lot.

[baseline bum]

Damn, nice job. I thought they were going to give it to Curry's brother for chucking a million shots.

Well deserved, tbh.

Best summer league showing (ignoring Salt Lake City) by a Spurs player since Tony Parker (not counting Kawhi's cameo). Simmons' performance is top ten -- if not top five.

Better than this guy's 2002 summer league showing?

http://cdn1.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1064971/628x471.jpg

[SAGirl]

Thank you
Most of the guys in the starting lineup he plays with can't make a shot. Even when he makes good passes they end up in bricks. There is worse. Some teammates have very bad hands (worse than Ayers) and can't handle a pass well. Obviously this SL team needs him to score and that is what coaches want from him for the SL.

[k_nguyen93]

Well now we just Simmons to win the FMVP tomorrow so we have 3 Summer League MVPs.

[baseline bum]

This is why Buford went from "we need a veteran wing next" to "F it, who has Bonner's number?", tbh.

So Kyle is looking like a legit NBA player?

[Spurtacular]

Theres also a fmvp iirc

That's just excessive for a short exhibition league. It takes away from what little luster a SLMVP would have as well.

[Shipupi]

Simmons vs. Anderson is the new Kawhi vs. Parker :lol
It's summer league man... it's all we have

[spursince#99]

Damn, nice job. I thought they were going to give it to Curry's brother for chucking a million shots.

Well deserved, tbh.

Best summer league showing (ignoring Salt Lake City) by a Spurs player since Tony Parker (not counting Kawhi's cameo). Simmons' performance is top ten -- if not top five.


Don't be so sure.

[wildcardX]

Simmons vs. Anderson is the new Kawhi vs. Parker :lol

Oh no, I can just imagine someone making a thread tomorrow about who has the better beard.

[SnakeBoy]

Simmons vs. Anderson is the new Kawhi vs. Parker :lol

:lol

I can just see the threads coming...

:cry fathead is hogging the ball :cry
:cry if only fathead would pass to Simmons :cry

[SpursFan86]

:lol

I can just see the threads coming...

:cry fathead is hogging the ball :cry
:cry if only fathead would pass to Simmons :cry

Can't wait for the "playsimmons" account to pop up when/if KA wins the 4th wing spot in the rotation :lol

[SAGirl]

Can't wait for the "playsimmons" account to pop up when/if KA wins the 4th wing spot in the rotation :lol
Wow OMG, that is literally what will happen. Ppl will stop short of calling for Manu to be benched and Simmons put in, can you see that one too?

[steeledl]

Wow OMG, that is literally what will happen. Ppl will stop short of calling for Manu to be benched and Simmons put in, can you see that one too?

If Manu continues to regress at the rate he has been, I could see people calling for Manu to not play at all..... regardless of possible replacements.

[Mr Bones]

Simmons vs. Anderson is the new Kawhi vs. Parker :lol


:lol

[slick'81]

Lol at everyone who said dude wouldn't make the team after one summer league game

[Darkwaters]

Lol at everyone who said dude wouldn't make the team after one summer league game

I'm guessing you missed the entire 2014-2015 NBA season... His start to SL was just a continuation of a very poor NBA season showing.

[slick'81]

I'm guessing you missed the entire 2014-2015 NBA season... His start to SL was just a continuation of a very poor NBA season showing.


Hell be ok

[Darkwaters]

Wow - what a turn around for Kyle Anderson! He was terrible in basically every way in Utah. And it wasn't an isolated thing either as he was very bad during the NBA season last year (although quite good in Austin).

The biggest change? Hes making shots. His last bad shooting night was the last game in Utah when he went 2-12. Since then hes been at or around 50% every night. I really feel like the fact that hes getting results on the offensive end has just brought his whole confidence level around. He now looks calm and composed whereas he was scared and lost in Utah. Quite a change.

I'm really hoping he can play like this at the NBA level. I'm going to reserve total judgment until I see him put together some consistency against better competition. After last year it's only prudent. But after a shaky start he had about as good of a summer league as could be imagined. Cheers Kyle!

[Uriel]

Damn, nice job. I thought they were going to give it to Curry's brother for chucking a million shots.

Well deserved, tbh.

Best summer league showing (ignoring Salt Lake City) by a Spurs player since Tony Parker (not counting Kawhi's cameo). Simmons' performance is top ten -- if not top five.
Better than George Hill?

[Uriel]

Although it's great that he was named Summer League MVP, we can't put too much stock in the award itself. Last year's recipient, Glenn Rice, Jr., couldn't even stick in the NBA and was eventually waived by the Wizards.

Obviously, you can't compare the two, since Anderson is far younger and was drafted in the first round. But it's a reminder that the award in and of itself means nothing. What counts is whether Anderson can carry over his summer league play into the NBA on a consistent basis.

[JakeCuenca]

Although it's great that he was named Summer League MVP, we can't put too much stock in the award itself. Last year's recipient, Glenn Rice, Jr., couldn't even stick in the NBA and was eventually waived by the Wizards.

Obviously, you can't compare the two, since Anderson is far younger and was drafted in the first round. But it's a reminder that the award in and of itself means nothing. What counts is whether Anderson can carry over his summer league play into the NBA on a consistent basis.

duh

[100%duncan]

duh
:lmao

[sexinthatsx]

Truth is... Jonathan Simmons will merely become an ST legend like James Gist and that's about it.

[dabom]

Truth is... Jonathan Simmons will merely become an ST legend like James Gist and that's about it.

I could say the something about KA. :lmao

[100%duncan]

I could say the something about KA. :lmao

Yup :lol

[sexinthatsx]

I haven't really watched Jonathan Simmons play, but from what you guys are saying, he's a good perimeter defensive player. But I'm under the impression that Spurs are trying to get a player to fill in Manu's role, and I think KA better fits the bill than Simmons. Would that be a correct assessment?

[steeledl]

I haven't really watched Jonathan Simmons play, but from what you guys are saying, he's a good perimeter defensive player. But I'm under the impression that Spurs are trying to get a player to fill in Manu's role, and I think KA better fits the bill than Simmons. Would that be a correct assessment?

Incorrect. Simmons is black Ginobili.

[dabom]

Incorrect. Simmons is black Ginobili.

I agree with this faggot. :lmao

[lefty20]

It's a good sign. But I'm not entirely sold on him yet. He could still end up being Basketball's version of AAAA player. He will likely get some solid minutes early in the season to prove that he is in fact ready for the big leagues, so I hope he's comes in ready to prove something.

[100%duncan]

I haven't really watched Jonathan Simmons play, but from what you guys are saying, he's a good perimeter defensive player. But I'm under the impression that Spurs are trying to get a player to fill in Manu's role, and I think KA better fits the bill than Simmons. Would that be a correct assessment?

How does a player who lacks speed and explosiveness fit the manu role over player who candrive to the basket and score at will. Both being good passers.

[steeledl]

I agree with this faggot. :lmao

Stop hitting on me faggot.

[sexinthatsx]

Did both Simmons and KA played with the Austin Toros this past season?

[dabom]

Stop hitting on me faggot.

Pity reply.

[aal04]

Hes going to start in within 18 months for Spurs. Im calling it

[steeledl]

Hes going to start in within 18 months for Spurs. Im calling it


Maybe if we have a bunch of injuries and have 3 games in 4 nights... I could see him cracking the starting line up if Pop rests guys.

[SAGirl]

I take it ppl mean it (by IT I meant the Manu role, was replying to someone but forgot to reply with the post included), not in terms of their style of play or even their position necessarily, but more as the 6th man. Meaning the leader of the second unit, the catalyst for the 2nd unit and a guy who will get you buckets. KA has that kind of potential in the future. he is not ready for that right now, which is why you want Manu back. He has a versatile game, being a perimeter player that can slide between the guard and forward positions. Pop can play him in several different styles. He wont be Manu, no one will, someone will be SG at some point, and it may be KA or someone else (I am inclined to think Simmons can back him in that role sufficiently adequately with the strength of that bench. In a future beyond this season, you may need a different catalyst, a guy who will change the pace or style of the first unit, to give you some different looks, and Kyle IMO could be it. He is still too young and inexperienced for a role like that, but seing his game in SL and how the Spurs are bringing him along, that is kind of what you can project 2 years from now I think.

[milkyway21]

I knew it.
Congratulations KA :tu
22 pts, 5.8 rbds, 2 assts, 1.5 blocks, 1.3 stl/game for Slow-mo.

so cool beating lottery picks Curry, Warren, Okafor...

Now, WIN the trophy!!!

[tesseractive]

Hes going to start in within 18 months for Spurs. Im calling it
So is he going to beat out Kawhi or LaMarcus for a starting spot? :rollin

[dabom]

So is he going to beat out Kawhi or LaMarcus for a starting spot? :rollin

Maybe tony parker. :lmao

[absoloot66]

the assist count would be higher if the Spurs weren't playing two Make-a-Wish Foundation players like Cherry and Atkins tbh.

:lol

[aal04]

So is he going to beat out Kawhi or LaMarcus for a starting spot? :rollin

Every spur wants him to play SF/PF. Hes played PG all college. He's flexible and very adaptable.

Bookmarking this thread for 18 months time :)

[ceperez]

Every spur wants him to play SF/PF. Hes played PG all college. He's flexible and very adaptable.

Bookmarking this thread for 18 months time :)

Spurs might event a completely new kind of offense this season. With Aldridge and West taking up the PF role, what's a guy like Diaw and Anderson to do?

Diaw and Anderson are difficult to guard because their ability to dribble and pass the ball just messes up the opponents defense. With the offense setting up screens and cuts all over the place. SL offense is mostly everyone standing around with nobody to pass to. It is surprising that Anderson and Simmons have a decent number of assists in their stats.

[tesseractive]

Every spur wants him to play SF/PF. Hes played PG all college. He's flexible and very adaptable.

Bookmarking this thread for 18 months time :)
If he's running the offense, prepare for him to be constantly pressed bringing up the ball, and say goodbye to any easy baskets early in the shot clock -- the defense will be set by the time he reaches halfcourt. :lol

[LiSpurs516]

Spurs might invent a completely new kind of offense this season. With Aldridge and West taking up the PF role, what's a guy like Diaw and Anderson to do?

Diaw and Anderson are difficult to guard because their ability to dribble and pass the ball just messes up the opponents defense. With the offense setting up screens and cuts all over the place. SL offense is mostly everyone standing around with nobody to pass to. It is surprising that Anderson and Simmons have a decent number of assists in their stats.

Fixed. But I agree its rare that all of our bigs are considered good passing bigs like we have. West and LMA should fit in seamlessly.

[Raven]

:cry so proud :cry

[pgardn]

Spurs might event a completely new kind of offense this season. With Aldridge and West taking up the PF role, what's a guy like Diaw and Anderson to do?

Diaw and Anderson are difficult to guard because their ability to dribble and pass the ball just messes up the opponents defense. With the offense setting up screens and cuts all over the place. SL offense is mostly everyone standing around with nobody to pass to. It is surprising that Anderson and Simmons have a decent number of assists in their stats.

This is what is interesting about him. He is very good at keeping over aggressive defenders off balance when he has the ball. He is most like Diaw I believe without the strength or lower body. But unlike Diaw, I think he has to fit really well with the players around him. I don't know how well he blends in if he does not get touches fairly regularly. Boris does what needs to be done in any group. I don't see KA adapting situationally yet. This is worrying as I don't want him rotting, the guy needs minutes.

I will let Pop find a way to utilize him effectively as he is clearly a player. For those who see him playing Manu's role, I don't see it, at all.

[timtonymanu]

Good stuff. I'm excited to see how all the young guys fit in the Spurs this season.

[Raven]

I haven't really watched Jonathan Simmons play, but from what you guys are saying, he's a good perimeter defensive player. But I'm under the impression that Spurs are trying to get a player to fill in Manu's role, and I think KA better fits the bill than Simmons. Would that be a correct assessment?

he's a dunker. If he's something other than that, we'll still have to see, but his athleticism is legit.

[Raven]

the player KA looks like the most, is hedo turkoglu. And i loved him most of the time, so that's not bad.

[KaiRMD1]

Congrats Stewie, old sport

[Emperor]

Can't wait for the season to start!

[jermaine]

he's a dunker. If he's something other than that, we'll still have to see, but his athleticism is legit.

He's a poor man's Ginobili with hops. His vision is great. His turnovers are simple to fix. But he's not afraid an he goes to the hole like a man.

[benefactor]

Truth is... Jonathan Simmons will merely become an ST legend like James Gist and that's about it.

I haven't really watched Jonathan Simmons play
Well ok

[benefactor]

he's a dunker. If he's something other than that, we'll still have to see, but his athleticism is legit.
Christ almighty what a shit take.

[Killakobe81]

I started to like him more over the summer league, wasn't too impressed in the past, but he def has the skills.

Bruin pride. Solid player it's crazy even in summer league you are better coached than the Lakers. Dark times in Lakernation.

[TheCerebral1]

Not that this award means much, but it's good to see he's put in the work. Continue to progress!

[TXstbobcat]

Did both Simmons and KA played with the Austin Toros this past season?

Simmons played in Austin last season and Slomo rotated between Austin and the Spurs last season.

[hater]

Christ almighty what a shit take.

It's raven :lmao

She also said Ferrari belinelli has no muscle tone thus he should not be in the NBA :lol

:lol raven

[ceperez]

he's a dunker. If he's something other than that, we'll still have to see, but his athleticism is legit.

WTF?????? He has to weave through traffic to get those dunks. He uses his left or right hand to score in traffic. Please don't compare him to James Gist.

[Dex]

he's a dunker. If he's something other than that, we'll still have to see, but his athleticism is legit.

He's much more than just a dunker, although he can certainly sky. From the SL games I've seen, he's a very adept finisher around the basket and is able to use the glass to get off a shot. He's got good footwork and an effective euro-step. He drives relentlessly...there were multiple times where he would try drive, get cut off or bumped by his defender, then just keep pushing and make his way into the paint. He's also a good passer, especially on the weak side and out to the three point line, which makes his ability to penetrate even more useful. Shooting may be a concern; he is able to hit the three but his shot looks like it could use some work.

Obviously, it remains to be seen if he can do this against NBA level talent, or if he will even get the minutes to try, but he's definitely more than just a one-trick pony who can only dunk.

[Phenomanul]

This is why Buford went from "we need a veteran wing next" to "F it, who has Bonner's number?", tbh.

:lmao pretty much.

[littlecoyotecoin]

:lmao pretty much.

Then he said: What was I thinking, I do, I have everyone's number.

[nickdaquick]

[QUOTE=BatManu20;8130460]Congrats, tbh. /QUOTE]
It's a positive.
Anyone got a list of previous MVPs from this league?

LMGTFY (http://lmgtfy.com/?q=NBA+Summer+League+MVP+history)

[Dex]

So the Spurs got the best SF on the FA market...two of the best PF on the FA market...one of the best SGs on the FA market...

And now we have the top SL prospect coming off the bench?

Oh...and we still have that Jim Dunan guy.

[ceperez]

He's a poor man's Ginobili with hops. His vision is great. His turnovers are simple to fix. But he's not afraid an he goes to the hole like a man.

Also very curious to see how Ginobili will play with someone who is a poor man's version of himself. I don't recall him ever having that opportunity!

[el contusione]

He's not going back down to the d'league! This guy was player of the month in Feb. in the D'league, led them to semifinals last year, now summer league MVP. He is an NBA player and too skilled for the dleague. He may not play a whole lot this year, but dleague is not going to help him get better at this point. He has to be challenged in real games now.
I agree.. He needs to play with the bench to develop more chemistry with them. If the Spurs just want to give him playing time then they might send him to dleague but at this point he's better off staying in SA.

[ceperez]

I agree.. He needs to play with the bench to develop more chemistry with them. If the Spurs just want to give him playing time then they might send him to dleague but at this point he's better off staying in SA.

Pop is going to send these guys to D-league until they get 'over themselves', I guarantee it.

[el contusione]

Pop is going to send these guys to D-league until they get 'over themselves', I guarantee it.
hahaha then SJax should have been in the dleague while he was signed with the Spurs. However, Anderson doesn't look like a guy who's ego will be an issue.

[Drom John]

Las Vegas MVPs
2012 Damian Lillard/Josh Selby
2013 Jonas Valančiūnas
2014 Glen Rice, Jr.
2015 Kyle Anderson

[Canyonero]

Go get 'em Kyle.

[sexinthatsx]

Well ok

A couple years ago when George Hill was playing in SL, I remember the Spurs had Alonzo Gee and James Gist on the team. James Gist showed flashes, but Alonzo Gee was the way more athletic and hustle player. Spurs ended up waiving him and he ended up starting for another team posting good numbers. Sometimes, it's not about athletic ability and play; there has to be something extra the FO is looking in these players.

[sexinthatsx]

Simmons played in Austin last season and Slomo rotated between Austin and the Spurs last season.

Because KA and Simmons both played together on the court at the same time, Pop can possibly just sign both and put them on the floor at the same time because they have good synergy.

[Chinook]

A couple years ago when George Hill was playing in SL, I remember the Spurs had Alonzo Gee and James Gist on the team. James Gist showed flashes, but Alonzo Gee was the way more athletic and hustle player. Spurs ended up waiving him and he ended up starting for another team posting good numbers. Sometimes, it's not about athletic ability and play; there has to be something extra the FO is looking in these players.


I haven't really watched Jonathan Simmons play

This cannot be overstated.

[JakeCuenca]

This cannot be overstated.

:lmao

[Mr. Body]

Las Vegas MVPs
2012 Damian Lillard/Josh Selby
2013 Jonas Valančiūnas
2014 Glen Rice, Jr.
2015 Kyle Anderson

Josh Selby. Wow. Whatever happened to that dude.

[dbestpro]

I really want see what happens when teams go small if Pop gives KA some burn at PG and Boban at Center. The post-ups would be hilarious.

[MultiTroll]

I stayed up all night and took some time off from jerking, so please find this witty:

LMGTFY (http://lmgtfy.com/?q=NBA+Summer+League+MVP+history)
Here's the last 3 years for Vegas. There is also an Orlando summer league:




Year
Nat.
Player
Pos.
Team


2015[note 1] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NBA_Summer_League#cite_note-LasVegas-3)
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/a/a4/Flag_of_the_United_States.svg/23px-Flag_of_the_United_States.svg.png (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States)
Kyle Anderson (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kyle_Anderson_(basketball))
SF (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Small_forward)
San Antonio Spurs (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/San_Antonio_Spurs)


2014[note 1] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NBA_Summer_League#cite_note-LasVegas-3)
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/a/a4/Flag_of_the_United_States.svg/23px-Flag_of_the_United_States.svg.png (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States)
Glen Rice Jr. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glen_Rice_Jr.)
SG (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shooting_guard)
Washington Wizards (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Washington_Wizards)


2013[note 1] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NBA_Summer_League#cite_note-LasVegas-3)
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/11/Flag_of_Lithuania.svg/23px-Flag_of_Lithuania.svg.png (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lithuania)
Jonas Valančiūnas (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jonas_Valan%C4%8Di%C5%ABnas)
C (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Center_(basketball))
Toronto Raptors (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toronto_Raptors)


2012[note 1] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NBA_Summer_League#cite_note-LasVegas-3)
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/a/a4/Flag_of_the_United_States.svg/23px-Flag_of_the_United_States.svg.png (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States)
Damian Lillard (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Damian_Lillard) (co-MVPs)
PG (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Point_guard)
Portland Trail Blazers (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portland_Trail_Blazers)


2012[note 1] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NBA_Summer_League#cite_note-LasVegas-3)
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/a/a4/Flag_of_the_United_States.svg/23px-Flag_of_the_United_States.svg.png (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States)
Josh Selby (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Josh_Selby) (co-MVPs)
PG (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Point_guard)
Memphis Grizzlies (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Memphis_Grizzlies)



Going back, Blake Griffin 2009
John Wall 2010
This could be a very good thing.

[boutons_deux]

a very thing.

... :lol

[MultiTroll]

... :lol
It would fit in 90% of ST posts aye? :lol
Edited.
Thank you.

[sexinthatsx]

This cannot be overstated.

So what's your take on the players then?

[GSH]

Although it's great that he was named Summer League MVP, we can't put too much stock in the award itself. Last year's recipient, Glenn Rice, Jr., couldn't even stick in the NBA and was eventually waived by the Wizards.





Going back, Blake Griffin 2009
John Wall 2010
This could be a very good thing.

Devon Brown was D-League MVP and Rookie of the Year. Anderson did well, but he still has the same plusses and minuses he did going into SL. I hope he can contribute consistently, but the question marks will be there until November, at least.

[Chinook]

So what's your take on the players then?

Anderson hasn't developed his NBA game enough to be a consistent play-maker at the next level. His one-on-one game is superior, though, and it will translate better. Simmons' best attribute is that he is fearless. The last young player the Spurs have had who's been willing to put it out there his first year was Green. If he stays aggressive and smart rather than going into a shell like most first-year guys, Simmons would be a better fit for the rotation.

[ceperez]

Here's the last 3 years for Vegas. There is also an Orlando summer league:




Year
Nat.
Player
Pos.
Team


2015[note 1] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NBA_Summer_League#cite_note-LasVegas-3)
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/a/a4/Flag_of_the_United_States.svg/23px-Flag_of_the_United_States.svg.png (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States)
Kyle Anderson (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kyle_Anderson_(basketball))
SF (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Small_forward)
San Antonio Spurs (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/San_Antonio_Spurs)


2014[note 1] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NBA_Summer_League#cite_note-LasVegas-3)
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/a/a4/Flag_of_the_United_States.svg/23px-Flag_of_the_United_States.svg.png (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States)
Glen Rice Jr. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glen_Rice_Jr.)
SG (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shooting_guard)
Washington Wizards (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Washington_Wizards)


2013[note 1] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NBA_Summer_League#cite_note-LasVegas-3)
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/11/Flag_of_Lithuania.svg/23px-Flag_of_Lithuania.svg.png (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lithuania)
Jonas Valančiūnas (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jonas_Valan%C4%8Di%C5%ABnas)
C (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Center_(basketball))
Toronto Raptors (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toronto_Raptors)


2012[note 1] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NBA_Summer_League#cite_note-LasVegas-3)
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/a/a4/Flag_of_the_United_States.svg/23px-Flag_of_the_United_States.svg.png (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States)
Damian Lillard (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Damian_Lillard) (co-MVPs)
PG (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Point_guard)
Portland Trail Blazers (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portland_Trail_Blazers)


2012[note 1] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NBA_Summer_League#cite_note-LasVegas-3)
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/a/a4/Flag_of_the_United_States.svg/23px-Flag_of_the_United_States.svg.png (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States)
Josh Selby (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Josh_Selby) (co-MVPs)
PG (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Point_guard)
Memphis Grizzlies (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Memphis_Grizzlies)



Going back, Blake Griffin 2009
John Wall 2010
This could be a very good thing.

Spurs fans should be more than thrilled that pick #30 of the 1st round was voted the best performer if Summer League.

Most times, pick #30 even for the Spurs are complete no-shows.

2013 Jean-Charles - One game with 6 block, but didn't show up after.
2011 Cory Joseph - Serviceable guard
2010 James Anderson - #20 pick ... a no show.
2008 George Hill - #25.. showed up but was a great trade asset.
2007 Tiago Splitter - showed up for one season.
2005 Mahinmi - no show
2004 Udih - played a couple of seasons, but never resigned.
2001 Parker - HOF

Spurs don't get a lot of chances to pick in the first round, previous to 2010 they were picking quite well. Since 2010 there have been 2 busts out of 4 picks. By Spurs standards their luck in picking well in the first round is declining. Either because the league is smarter now or there's less talent out there. I think it is because of the former.

[Chinook]

Spurs fans should be more than thrilled that pick #30 of the 1st round was voted the best performer if Summer League.

Most times, pick #30 even for the Spurs are complete no-shows.

2013 Jean-Charles - One game with 6 block, but didn't show up after.
2011 Cory Joseph - Serviceable guard
2010 James Anderson - #20 pick ... a no show.
2008 George Hill - #25.. showed up but was a great trade asset.
2007 Tiago Splitter - showed up for one season.
2005 Mahinmi - no show
2004 Udih - played a couple of seasons, but never resigned.
2001 Parker - HOF

Spurs don't get a lot of chances to pick in the first round, previous to 2010 they were picking quite well. Since 2010 there have 2 busts out of 4 picks.

I'm confused as to whether you're talking about SL only or not. LJC hasn't even been on the team. He's a no-show by the very definition, but he's not a bust, which seems to be what 'no-show' means to you.

Cory is a serviceable guard who got a big contract. Very much a successful late first-rounder.

Anderson remains the most disappointing pick in at least a decade. Even so, there wasn't really a better player picked immediately after him. You have to drop all the way to 28 to find anyone established, and you have to go all the way to 40 to find a superior player at the same position. And that guy's a headcase.

Hill is still a solid starter and netted a lottery pick. He was insane value for the Spurs.

Tiago Splitter is the main reason Tim is still healthy enough to play. His was an awesome pick. Dude showed up in multiple playoff series and was the team's best overall defensive player until he got hurt last season. If Mirotic can be anything close to Tiago, Chicago would be ecstatic.

Mahinmi has a ring and is a very serviceable player in the league even after all these years. Not a horrible pick if they give him the time he needed to develop instead of stashing him then giving up on him. But still, there were a few better players who were picked immediately after him. It was a poor finance-motivated move by the team. Hopefully, Milutinov doesn't go the same way.

Udrih is also a player the Spurs gave up on too soon. He was never a great player, but he's still solid after more than a decade, and that's a hell of an accomplishment for a low first.

The Spurs don't necessarily click with all of the players they draft, but their ability to pick solid-at-works players with their late picks is extraordinary. You can even add Blair at 37 in 2009 to see how much value they get in that range.

[TD 21]

Tiago Splitter is the main reason Tim is still healthy enough to play. His was an awesome pick. Dude showed up in multiple playoff series and was the team's best overall defensive player until he got hurt last season. If Mirotic can be anything close to Tiago, Chicago would be ecstatic.

:lol No. Duncan is the main reason Duncan is still healthy enough to play. No matter how solid Splitter was/is the rare times he's in peak form, the reality is, he was/is a 20-25 mpg player and was/is either frequently injured or working his way back into form. He also didn't show up repeatedly against the other two elite teams from '12-'14.

[Slime Baller]

the assist count would be higher if the Spurs weren't playing two Make-a-Wish Foundation players like Cherry and Atkins tbh.
I laughed way, way too hard at this.

[ceperez]

I'm confused as to whether you're talking about SL only or not. LJC hasn't even been on the team. He's a no-show by the very definition, but he's not a bust, which seems to be what 'no-show' means to you.

Cory is a serviceable guard who got a big contract. Very much a successful late first-rounder.

Anderson remains the most disappointing pick in at least a decade. Even so, there wasn't really a better player picked immediately after him. You have to drop all the way to 28 to find anyone established, and you have to go all the way to 40 to find a superior player at the same position. And that guy's a headcase.

Hill is still a solid starter and netted a lottery pick. He was insane value for the Spurs.

Tiago Splitter is the main reason Tim is still healthy enough to play. His was an awesome pick. Dude showed up in multiple playoff series and was the team's best overall defensive player until he got hurt last season. If Mirotic can be anything close to Tiago, Chicago would be ecstatic.

Mahinmi has a ring and is a very serviceable player in the league even after all these years. Not a horrible pick if they give him the time he needed to develop instead of stashing him then giving up on him. But still, there were a few better players who were picked immediately after him. It was a poor finance-motivated move by the team. Hopefully, Milutinov doesn't go the same way.

Udrih is also a player the Spurs gave up on too soon. He was never a great player, but he's still solid after more than a decade, and that's a hell of an accomplishment for a low first.

The Spurs don't necessarily click with all of the players they draft, but their ability to pick solid-at-works players with their late picks is extraordinary. You can even add Blair at 37 in 2009 to see how much value they get in that range.


My point is this, since 2010, Spurs record of drafting has not been great.

Before 2010, Spurs drafted George Hill, Splitter, Mahinmi, Udrih, Parker. That is from 2001 to 2009 ( 8 years, more if you count previous years without first round picks). Only real bust was Mahinmi, who barely played for the Spurs.

So just saying that Spurs should be happy to pick up Anderson as a serviceable player because the picks have been quite slim lately.

[benefactor]

My point is this, since 2010, Spurs record of drafting has not been great.

Before 2010, Spurs drafted George Hill, Splitter, Mahinmi, Udrih, Parker. That is from 2001 to 2009 ( 8 years, more if you count previous years without first round picks). Only real bust was Mahinmi, who barely played for the Spurs.

So just saying that Spurs should be happy to pick up Anderson as a serviceable player because the picks have been quite slim lately.
det goalpost move tho

[SanDiegoSpursFan]

Wrong thread

[exstatic]

Better than George Hill?

Is this a joke? George Hill fucking STUNK in SL...

[exstatic]

I haven't really watched Jonathan Simmons play, but from what you guys are saying, he's a good perimeter defensive player. But I'm under the impression that Spurs are trying to get a player to fill in Manu's role, and I think KA better fits the bill than Simmons. Would that be a correct assessment?

Not even close. How can you even have an OPINION without having watched one game of his?

[sexinthatsx]

Not even close. How can you even have an OPINION without having watched one game of his?

Since when did an impression an opinion become the same word?

[Uriel]

Is this a joke? George Hill fucking STUNK in SL...
George Hill's second go-around in SL was very impressive, and left many people confident he would excel in his sophomore year (which he did).

[ace3g]

https://s.yimg.com/sr/imgv1/1/b66174d8-a144-3ba2-b517-3f5dfc1e68b7

[silverblackfan]

I'm confused as to whether you're talking about SL only or not. LJC hasn't even been on the team. He's a no-show by the very definition, but he's not a bust, which seems to be what 'no-show' means to you.

Cory is a serviceable guard who got a big contract. Very much a successful late first-rounder.

Anderson remains the most disappointing pick in at least a decade. Even so, there wasn't really a better player picked immediately after him. You have to drop all the way to 28 to find anyone established, and you have to go all the way to 40 to find a superior player at the same position. And that guy's a headcase.

Hill is still a solid starter and netted a lottery pick. He was insane value for the Spurs.

Tiago Splitter is the main reason Tim is still healthy enough to play. His was an awesome pick. Dude showed up in multiple playoff series and was the team's best overall defensive player until he got hurt last season. If Mirotic can be anything close to Tiago, Chicago would be ecstatic.

Mahinmi has a ring and is a very serviceable player in the league even after all these years. Not a horrible pick if they give him the time he needed to develop instead of stashing him then giving up on him. But still, there were a few better players who were picked immediately after him. It was a poor finance-motivated move by the team. Hopefully, Milutinov doesn't go the same way.

Udrih is also a player the Spurs gave up on too soon. He was never a great player, but he's still solid after more than a decade, and that's a hell of an accomplishment for a low first.

The Spurs don't necessarily click with all of the players they draft, but their ability to pick solid-at-works players with their late picks is extraordinary. You can even add Blair at 37 in 2009 to see how much value they get in that range.

Solid post. Did they draft Malik Rose?

[pgardn]

I really want see what happens when teams go small if Pop gives KA some burn at PG and Boban at Center. The post-ups would be hilarious.

If we miss a shot I would also like to see the ensuing comedy trying to get back on D.

[pgardn]

I'm confused as to whether you're talking about SL only or not. LJC hasn't even been on the team. He's a no-show by the very definition, but he's not a bust, which seems to be what 'no-show' means to you.

Cory is a serviceable guard who got a big contract. Very much a successful late first-rounder.

Anderson remains the most disappointing pick in at least a decade. Even so, there wasn't really a better player picked immediately after him. You have to drop all the way to 28 to find anyone established, and you have to go all the way to 40 to find a superior player at the same position. And that guy's a headcase.

Hill is still a solid starter and netted a lottery pick. He was insane value for the Spurs.

Tiago Splitter is the main reason Tim is still healthy enough to play. His was an awesome pick. Dude showed up in multiple playoff series and was the team's best overall defensive player until he got hurt last season. If Mirotic can be anything close to Tiago, Chicago would be ecstatic.

Mahinmi has a ring and is a very serviceable player in the league even after all these years. Not a horrible pick if they give him the time he needed to develop instead of stashing him then giving up on him. But still, there were a few better players who were picked immediately after him. It was a poor finance-motivated move by the team. Hopefully, Milutinov doesn't go the same way.

Udrih is also a player the Spurs gave up on too soon. He was never a great player, but he's still solid after more than a decade, and that's a hell of an accomplishment for a low first.

The Spurs don't necessarily click with all of the players they draft, but their ability to pick solid-at-works players with their late picks is extraordinary. You can even add Blair at 37 in 2009 to see how much value they get in that range.

At this point Corey Joseph showed far less upside than KA, far less.

[SAGirl]

http://www.nba.com/spurs/video/teams/spurs/2015/07/21/summerleagueleadermp4-3648860Underrated aspect of Kyle's intangibles is his leadership. I mentioned somewhere else that he has in his young career already been a leader of winning teams. Spurs website did a little collage of interviews about this aspect:

http://www.nba.com/spurs/video/teams/spurs/2015/07/21/summerleagueleadermp4-3648860

[kobyz]

I hope he'll improve his shot, become more assertive and confident and be the next detlef schrempf as he reminds me the German so much with his attributes and style...

[Chinook]

At this point Corey Joseph showed far less upside than KA, far less.

Far less.

[ceperez]

Kyle Anderson playing with the Spurs will likely have the same offensive options a Kawhi Leonard.

(1) Posting up smaller guard and forwards.
(2) Hitting the 3 point shot when open.

[wildbill2u]

I've given Anderson some heat on these threads, principally because of his lack of speed. Every time he starts to change my mind, he does some things (mostly on defense) that brings me back to neutral, leaning against his being a good rotation player. Like last night in the closing minutes there were at least two times when he just waved goodbye at a player blasting past him on the way to the basket.

He has more time in the pro game than most of the first team players in SL and should be better than pure rookies. He's learned to hide some of his lack of speed by laying off his man and by using his length--but will it be enough for him to earn big minutes against players with more physical ability?

[yavozerb]

I've given Anderson some heat on these threads, principally because of his lack of speed. Every time he starts to change my mind, he does some things (mostly on defense) that brings me back to neutral, leaning against his being a good rotation player. Like last night in the closing minutes there were at least two times when he just waved goodbye at a player blasting past him on the way to the basket.
He has more time in the pro game than most of the first team players in SL and should be better than pure rookies. He's learned to hide some of his lack of speed by laying off his man and by using his length--but will it be enough for him to earn big minutes against players with more physical ability?

Dude, they just played 3 games in 3 days..Agree that his defense needs some work though but overal was pleased with his overall performance

[Diego20]

1,5 asissts per game? And someone said he's manu replacement..

[pgardn]

Far less.

Yes, I know that.

[ChumpDumper]

1,5 asissts per game? And someone said he's manu replacement..Had you seen some of the passes he made to guys he had been plaiying with for about three weeks, you might think differently.

[ducks]

1,5 asissts per game? And someone said he's manu replacement..

you watch games?
his passes were awesome should have had 5-9 game easily would had his teammates other then simmons not be scrubs

[Chinook]

Yes, I know that.

Just saying. Far, far less.

[silverblackfan]

Just saying. Far, far less.
:lol

[Kikoluna]

I am just disgusted by the accolades this guy is getting. Did you not see the eggs he laid every time he got called up? Unbelievable.

[steeledl]

I am just disgusted by the accolades this guy is getting. Did you not see the eggs he laid every time he got called up? Unbelievable.

Same tbh. I won't believe in this guys game will translate til he shows something in the NBA. He was absolutely dreadful playing with the big boys last year.

[ceperez]

The bias and stereotyping here is ridiculous.

Spurs have always been a very unathletic team that compensates by playing skilled basketball.

He's the SL MVP and that is a good enough achievement for a 21 year old.

[SAGirl]

The bias and stereotyping here is ridiculous.

Spurs have always been a very unathletic team that compensates by playing skilled basketball.

He's the SL MVP and that is a good enough achievement for a 21 year old.
Yea I wonder to myself what team these have dudes been watching TBH? Only guy who is athletic enough to dunk on a regular basis is Kawhi, and he doesnt even go for it every chance he can. Every one else is a finesse guy. Not saying athelticism is not exciting or whatever, since in here if you dont go with the flow its like you are against it, and I am not. Its just that for all the appreciation about smart basketball, ppl slam a guy who is not dunking like jeff ayers out there (a classic example of athleticism wasted, a shitty unskilled, but athletic guy.) But haters will hate regardless lol

[JeffDuncan]

http://www.lolcats.com/images/u/08/22/lolcatsdotcomq7px8bs8q4fl58up.jpg

[ceperez]

Yea I wonder to myself what team these have dudes been watching TBH? Only guy who is athletic enough to dunk on a regular basis is Kawhi, and he doesnt even go for it every chance he can. Every one else is a finesse guy. Not saying athelticism is not exciting or whatever, since in here if you dont go with the flow its like you are against it, and I am not. Its just that for all the appreciation about smart basketball, ppl slam a guy who is not dunking like jeff ayers out there (a classic example of athleticism wasted, a shitty unskilled, but athletic guy.) But haters will hate regardless lol

Exactly, as a matter of fact, Jeff Ayres was the most athletic player in the entire roster last year.

People have the mistaken impression that Kawhi has elite athleticism, he never had it. At best he had slightly above average athleticism. Just look at his predraft measurements: No step vert: 25.5 , max vert: 32 .

What about Danny Green: No step vert: 29. max vert: 33 . Green jumps higher than Leonard! Anyone watching Spurs games can see this as a fact.

You want an athlete? What about Ray McCallum: No step ver: 30, max vert: 40. 8 inches higher than Leonard.
or Simmons: No step vert: 30, max vert: 38.

Spurs got two players who can jump out of the gym. Those two players aren't Green or Leonard.

[ducks]

http://www.lolcats.com/images/u/08/22/lolcatsdotcomq7px8bs8q4fl58up.jpg

chris mullin was slow

[JeffDuncan]

And Larry Bird didn't beat defenders by outrunning them.

[dabom]

Exactly, as a matter of fact, Jeff Ayres was the most athletic player in the entire roster last year.

People have the mistaken impression that Kawhi has elite athleticism, he never had it. At best he had slightly above average athleticism. Just look at his predraft measurements: No step vert: 25.5 , max vert: 32

What about Danny Green: No step vert: 29. max vert: 33 . Green jumps higher than Leonard! Anyone watching Spurs games can see this as a fact.

You want an athlete? What about Ray McCallum: No step ver: 30, max vert: 40. 8 inches higher than Leonard.
or Simmons: No step vert: 30, max vert: 38.

Spurs got two players who can jump out of the gym. Those two players aren't Green or Leonard.

Kawhi didn't warm up like the other guys(there's a story about this) and I'm not sure but he had an injury before some of those workouts and maybe that jump stat. Someone correct me if I'm wrong.

[Kikoluna]

Forget the pre Draft vertical. Simply refer to Leonard's dunk against the heat. ..heck, even the failed dunk on birdman was amazing. He is without a doubt the most athletic. Please don't even mention the Simmons guy or kyle. Common man

[pgardn]

Just saying. Far, far less.

And I'm saying yes, I know that.

[SnakeBoy]

Kawhi didn't warm up like the other guys(there's a story about this) and I'm not sure but he had an injury before some of those workouts and maybe that jump stat. Someone correct me if I'm wrong.

:lol

:cry but he didn't warm up :cry

[wildbill2u]

Dude, they just played 3 games in 3 days..Agree that his defense needs some work though but overal was pleased with his overall performance

So had the other players, but when the game is down to seconds and close enough that a couple of fast breaks or 3s could change the outcome, your adrenalin and competitive spirit should kick in and you give max effort.

Come to think of it, I'm not even sure that wasn't his max effort, just not fast enough to be effective.

[dabom]

:lol

:cry but he didn't warm up :cry

Someone just said Kawhi is unathletic. :lmao

Even Bill Simmons said Kawhi is a top 5 athletic freak. Pics and video doesn't do him justice. Dude is a mammoth player for his position with cat like reflexes. Just because he doesn't try to jump high when he dunks doesn't mean he's not athletic.

This is one of those times we need to learn the context of what we're talking about.

[Nathan89]

chris mullin was slow


And Larry Bird didn't beat defenders by outrunning them.

Both were great shooters though.

[wildbill2u]

And Larry Bird didn't beat defenders by outrunning them.


Chris Mullin was slow.

And Gervin was slow. In fact his moves into the lane with a long stride are similar to KA.

But you will note that all three of those slow guys were exceptional shooters when the came into the league. I don't think KA compares to any of them.

[Chinook]

And I'm saying yes, I know that.

I'm glad you agree, because it's less.

[TampaDude]

Slo-Mo gettin' 'er done! :toast

[pjjrfan]

The games I saw him in he wasn't very confident being in games, he hesitated and always looked to pass the ball even when he was wide open. But his game is big time, he has great pace , excellent court vision , he is a great passer. His lack of speed won't affect him on offense although on defense it may hamper him, if he can play with the same confidence he will really help the spurs this season.

[ceperez]

Someone just said Kawhi is unathletic. :lmao

Even Bill Simmons said Kawhi is a top 5 athletic freak. Pics and video doesn't do him justice. Dude is a mammoth player for his position with cat like reflexes. Just because he doesn't try to jump high when he dunks doesn't mean he's not athletic.

This is one of those times we need to learn the context of what we're talking about.

I'm saying he doesn't jump high. Length and cat like reflexes aren't a definition of athletic. Manu has cat like reflexes, but I would call his athleticism elite. Duncan has length.

[dabom]

I'm saying he doesn't jump high. Length and cat like reflexes aren't a definition of athletic. Manu has cat like reflexes, but I would call his athleticism elite. Duncan has length.

Except he does jump high. He just doesn't need to most of the time. Cat like reflexes is athleticism though. I don't understand you anymore.

[bic50]

Same tbh. I won't believe in this guys game will translate til he shows something in the NBA. He was absolutely dreadful playing with the big boys last year.
Not sure what you were expecting from a 20yr old rookie on a championship team. We all already knew how pop is with rookies and It was obvious he wasnt going to get much playing time with the team last season which is why he was sent back to austin so much for playing time. I really like simmons, but hes turning 26 in a month and has done absolutely nothing with the big boys either, but yet youre all over him.

[steeledl]

Not sure what you were expecting from a 20yr old rookie on a championship team. We all already knew how pop is with rookies and It was obvious he wasnt going to get much playing time with the team last season which is why he was sent back to austin so much for playing time. I really like simmons, but hes turning 26 in a month and has done absolutely nothing with the big boys either, but yet youre all over him.


Simmons has NBA skills and athleticism . It's not that I was disappointed that anderson didn't get a lot of run.... It's that when he did play he looked like the worst player on the court even in garbage time often.

[bic50]

I am just disgusted by the accolades this guy is getting. Did you not see the eggs he laid every time he got called up? Unbelievable.
Why would any spurs fan be disgusted with the accolades a young player on the team they support is getting? Unbelievable. Anyone who expected him to just blow up last season is clueless. He has a year under his belt and from what it seems like pop and the rest of the coaching staff seem to be high on him. He'll be fine.

[bic50]

Simmons has NBA skills and athleticism . It's not that I was disappointed that anderson didn't get a lot of run.... It's that when he did play he looked like the worst player on the court even in garbage time often.
Agree about simmons but hes hitting or is prime right now going on 26. Kyle is only 21 and is a unique talent imo. Last season he was a 20yr old rookie, I didnt expect anything from him, in fact I was surprised he played at all. He did play a few games where he looked ok. The game against portland comes to mind.

[ceperez]

Agree about simmons but hes hitting or is prime right now going on 26. Kyle is only 21 and is a unique talent imo. Last season he was a 20yr old rookie, I didnt expect anything from him, in fact I was surprised he played at all. He did play a few games where he looked ok. The game against portland comes to mind.


I'm sick and tired of these haters, all hating on a 21 year old because he has a nickname 'SloMo'.

The guy just won MVP for SL and took his team to win the championship. The least they can do is give some respect and give the guy the benefit of the doubt. What a bunch of low-life haters.

[bic50]

Exactly, as a matter of fact, Jeff Ayres was the most athletic player in the entire roster last year.

People have the mistaken impression that Kawhi has elite athleticism, he never had it. At best he had slightly above average athleticism. Just look at his predraft measurements: No step vert: 25.5 , max vert: 32 .

What about Danny Green: No step vert: 29. max vert: 33 . Green jumps higher than Leonard! Anyone watching Spurs games can see this as a fact.

You want an athlete? What about Ray McCallum: No step ver: 30, max vert: 40. 8 inches higher than Leonard.
or Simmons: No step vert: 30, max vert: 38.

Spurs got two players who can jump out of the gym. Those two players aren't Green or Leonard.



Dwayne Wade comes in at 31.5” & 35” in the no step & max
Blake Griffin measured at 32” & 35.5” (no step & max)
Carmello Anthony jumped 30.5” & 33.5” (no step & max)
Derrick Rose = 34.5” & 40” (no step & max)
Russell Westbrook = 30” & 36.5” (no step & max)

Going by predraft measurements that would make mccallum more "athletic" then dwayne wade, blake griffin, and russell westbrook. I see what youre saying but you cant really go by these numbers when determining athleticism, these guys are still young and growing and once they get into the league and start working out with trainers they most likely get stronger, quicker, jump higher, etc. Im sure kawhi would post higher numbers then he did in the predraft today.
"Green jumps higher than Leonard! Anyone watching Spurs games can see this as a fact" Dont understand this at all. Kawhi was the only one on the spurs especially last season who was catching and finishing alley oops.

[ceperez]

Except he does jump high. He just doesn't need to most of the time. Cat like reflexes is athleticism though. I don't understand you anymore.

No, he doesn't jump that high. When I mean high, I mean someone who could be invited to the slam dunk contest. Kawhi doesn't qualify.

Reflexes otherwise known as eye hand coordination isn't athleticism, you can have a bunch of overweight gamers that have quick reflexes but they are far from being athletic.

Just to remind you about Kawhi, here are his dunks:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=obktzLpjA94

he uses his length to reach the ring and dunk.

Now compare to Jonathan Simons:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dDgi4nrmKno

Leonard has a 4.5" standing reach advantage. Notice how much higher above the hoop Simmons reaches. Leonard's advantage is his length and large hands, but he certainly doesn't go up as high as Simmons.

[bic50]

No, he doesn't jump that high. When I mean high, I mean someone who could be invited to the slam dunk contest. Kawhi doesn't qualify.

Reflexes otherwise known as eye hand coordination isn't athleticism, you can have a bunch of overweight gamers that have quick reflexes but they are far from being athletic.
Agreed. Kawhi isnt dunk contest material but hes plenty athletic imo.

[dabom]

Dwayne Wade comes in at 31.5” & 35” in the no step & max
Blake Griffin measured at 32” & 35.5” (no step & max)
Carmello Anthony jumped 30.5” & 33.5” (no step & max)
Derrick Rose = 34.5” & 40” (no step & max)
Russell Westbrook = 30” & 36.5” (no step & max)

Going by predraft measurements that would make mccallum more "athletic" then dwayne wade, blake griffin, and russell westbrook. I see what youre saying but you cant really go by these numbers when determining athleticism, these guys are still young and growing and once they get into the league and start working out with trainers they most likely get stronger, quicker, jump higher, etc. Im sure kawhi would post higher numbers then he did in the predraft today.
"Green jumps higher than Leonard! Anyone watching Spurs games can see this as a fact" Dont understand this at all. Kawhi was the only one on the spurs especially last season who was catching and finishing alley oops.

Intelligent poster alert. :tu

[Flawless]

I don't understand why Kyle Anderson is receiving so much hate. It's true he has some flaws, but he's only 21. Over time, he'll figure out how to work around his flaws and become a more complete nba player. However, it's rather dissapointing seeing spurs fans trashing on him, even after winning the MVP for the Vegas Summer League.

[Axegrinder]

I don't understand why Kyle Anderson is receiving so much hate. It's true he has some flaws, but he's only 21. Over time, he'll figure out how to work around his flaws and become a more complete nba player. However, it's rather dissapointing seeing spurs fans trashing on him, even after winning the MVP for the Vegas Summer League.Clearly they are just spoiled

[dabom]

Clearly they are just spoiled

Are we supposed to respect a summer league mvp?

[Flawless]

Are we supposed to respect a summer league mvp?

It may not be a huge achievement, but it's still something to start with. You got to start small before you build your way up. However, the big test with be in the nba season.

[dabom]

It may not be a huge achievement, but it's still something to start with. You got to start small before you build your way up. However, the big test with be in the nba season.

Like you said. Maybe in the future. He hasn't earned any respect as a basketball player yet.

[SAGirl]

No, he doesn't jump that high. When I mean high, I mean someone who could be invited to the slam dunk contest. Kawhi doesn't qualify.

Reflexes otherwise known as eye hand coordination isn't athleticism, you can have a bunch of overweight gamers that have quick reflexes but they are far from being athletic.

Just to remind you about Kawhi, here are his dunks:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=obktzLpjA94

he uses his length to reach the ring and dunk.

Now compare to Jonathan Simons:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dDgi4nrmKno

Leonard has a 4.5" standing reach advantage. Notice how much higher above the hoop Simmons reaches. Leonard's advantage is his length and large hands, but he certainly doesn't go up as high as Simmons.
Nice comparison, Kawhi has always been described as a fluid not explosive athlete. He's a good athlete, but wow Simmons is for sure explosive, he puts the exclamation point in any dunk for sure.

[MI21]

Kawhi is a good overall athlete when you consider his decent speed, vertical, agility and stamina in what is quite a heavy frame. Combine that with his length, hand size, defensive IQ and timing and you get what we see now, an elite player.

But yeah, his vertical jump isn't that great and most of his dunks are due to his length. (One notable exception is that two hand put back in Miami in the '14 Finals, that was just filthy)

[apalisoc_9]

Kawhi has hands, size and strength.

He's going to have a long career because he doesn't rely on speed and Jump.

His Speed and Jump might as well be equal to 33 year old tbh...he's not really good on both.

The great news is that he's already a top 10 player with just strengh and size..and that's something that's going to stay with him for another 15+ years.