Spurs Select G Josh Primo in the 2021 NBA Draft (12th Overall)

[Spurtacular]

The Spurs will probably never draft a white again.

Disagree. But I wish Wagner was on the board for this pick.

If Wagner was on the board and they did this pick, I would be going ballistic; but nothing to do with racial reasons.

[K...]

what's the overlap on people who bitch about the Morris Carrol deal and people who absolutely believe the spurs could get a two for one with the 12 pick?

[Mr. Body]

I've just watched a couple of interviews. I'll say this, and I hate when people say this about black people, but he sounds highly intelligent. Not just a chill guy, but high IQ.

Also, spotting up or off a dribble, his 3-ball comes out quick.

Bad side: he's not an athlete.

Most white people are fucking idiots, so it's not rare to find black people who speak better than them.

[tim_duncan_fan]

Most white people are fucking idiots, so it's not rare to find black people who speak better than them.

Maybe that sounded racist the way I wrote it. I meant we don't like hearing when people say we "sound intelligent" or "so well-spoken" because duh. But for a super-young hooper, dude sounds really notably smart.

[mudyez]

Some thoughts:

1. After what happened with Kawhi, the Spurs might value character more than ever. If taking a project, might as well take the project, that will probably stay after you grew him.

2. It doesn't matter, that he is a other guard. Senguns drop showed that bigs are not worth much anyway. You can get a Montrez Harrell as a drop in to your trade these days. So why waste a pick on a big? Until Primo becomes an NBA ready player, our team will Look different anyway and some other guards will be gone.

3) We don't really know, if a team like the Pacers didn't really want to take him. I trust the Spurs in evaluating the options and the talent. Rather have him than two guys the Spurs don't think will pan out.

Sure, the night was a bummer, but I have a lot of trust when it comes to the Spurs drafting.

[JeffDuncan]

...

2. It doesn't matter, that he is a other guard. ...




It matters when the team is so short of forwards.

Number of power forwards on the current roster: one. Samanic.

Number of small forwards on the current roster: one. Keldon.

As they are currently listed.

There’s one combo 4/5: Eubanks.

Two players, Vassell and Wieskamp, could possibly be listed as small forwards I guess.

One center. One power forward. One player backing up both. That is the current roster.

Something is going to change. But that’s why people talk about too many guards.

[mudyez]

It matters when the team is so short of forwards.

Number of power forwards on the current roster: one. Samanic.

Number of small forwards on the current roster: one. Keldon.

As they are currently listed.

There’s one combo 4/5: Eubanks.

Two players, Vassell and Wieskamp, could possibly be listed as small forwards I guess.

One center. One power forward. One player backing up both. That is the current roster.

Something is going to change. But that’s why people talk about too many guards.

Well, it's not like they are going for a deep run anyway. Should be ok to have kind of an unbalanced roster in a year, you are probably looking more at some Mock Drafts than Playoffs positioning.

AND as I said, it's not that hard to get some somewhat competent big just to fill in for a year or two. Maybe you even can do a team like Boston (Tristan T) a favour and snag something extra with that (not that the Spurs are doing maneuvering like that, but well).

AND I'm still hopefull we will get Lauri.

[Teamduncan21]

Well, it's not like they are going for a deep run anyway. Should be ok to have kind of an unbalanced roster in a year, you are probably looking more at some Mock Drafts than Playoffs positioning.

AND as I said, it's not that hard to get some somewhat competent big just to fill in for a year or two. Maybe you even can do a team like Boston (Tristan T) a favour and snag something extra with that (not that the Spurs are doing maneuvering like that, but well).

AND I'm still hopefull we will get Lauri.


Yeah it seems bigs are a bit less valuable. Jarett Allen Collins kristaps? On top of what you have mentioned.

[rascal]

Some thoughts:


Sure, the night was a bummer, but I have a lot of trust when it comes to the Spurs drafting.

I don't. They hit a a couple of draft picks twenty years ago. Nothing all that special recently.

[pad300]

...
2. It doesn't matter, that he is a other guard. Senguns drop showed that bigs are not worth much anyway. You can get a Montrez Harrell as a drop in to your trade these days. So why waste a pick on a big? Until Primo becomes an NBA ready player, our team will Look different anyway and some other guards will be gone.
...

I call BS. That's the current zeitgeist, but look at the recent history of Champion and finalists.

2021 - Bucks (Giannis), Suns (Ayton)
2020 - Lakers (AD), Miami (Bam)
2019* - Raptors (Marc Gasol) Suns (Durant) *Durant got injured, otherwise I figure Suns win going away
2018 - Suns (Durant) Cavs (Lebron at PF)
2017 - Suns (Durant) Cavs (Lebron at PF)

Teams that get to the finals have good 2-way bigs. The team that wins, has the better 2-way big... (You can argue that 17 and 18 were a tie - at which points the rest of the Warriors had an overwhelming talent advantage).

[RC_Drunkford]

I call BS. That's the current zeitgeist, but look at the recent history of Champion and finalists.

2021 - Bucks (Giannis), Suns (Ayton)
2020 - Lakers (AD), Miami (Bam)
2019* - Raptors (Marc Gasol) Suns (Durant) *Durant got injured, otherwise I figure Suns win going away
2018 - Suns (Durant) Cavs (Lebron at PF)
2017 - Suns (Durant) Cavs (Lebron at PF)

Teams that get to the finals have good 2-way bigs. The team that wins, has the better 2-way big... (You can argue that 17 and 18 were a tie - at which points the rest of the Warriors had an overwhelming talent advantage).

damn I never knew the Phoenix Suns had KD and made the finals 3 times in a row :dizzy

[ace3g]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/E7gc6eQWEAcJ0Nw?format=jpg&name=large

[pad300]

damn I never knew the Phoenix Suns had KD and made the finals 3 times in a row :dizzy

Yeah Ok, my brain short circuited. GSW. The point stands...

[SnakeBoy]

I'm really looking forward to watching him develop into an MVP caliber player and then leaving, or not develop and landing a long term contract with the Spurs.

[mudyez]

I call BS. That's the current zeitgeist, but look at the recent history of Champion and finalists.

2021 - Bucks (Giannis), Suns (Ayton)
2020 - Lakers (AD), Miami (Bam)
2019* - Raptors (Marc Gasol) Suns (Durant) *Durant got injured, otherwise I figure Suns win going away
2018 - Suns (Durant) Cavs (Lebron at PF)
2017 - Suns (Durant) Cavs (Lebron at PF)

Teams that get to the finals have good 2-way bigs. The team that wins, has the better 2-way big... (You can argue that 17 and 18 were a tie - at which points the rest of the Warriors had an overwhelming talent advantage).

If you call Lebron, Giannis and Durant "bigs" you are 100% right. Some might call Lebron a PG and the other two SFs and well you are right, no team became Champion playing only guards.

Mentioning Embiid and Jokic alongside AD and Bam would have suited your argument way better.

I'm not opposed to getting a big, but I don't think we absolutely had to draft one just to balance out our roster. Especially while not playing for anything the next 2 or 3 seasons. Maybe a guy like Sengun becomes very good, but it's not likely we didn't draft the next league MVP here (I giess this gets bookmarked now ^^). Probably there are even better options available via MLE.

Long story short: I agree that bigs are important and this years Bucks and last years Lakers proved that during the Finals. But we are in rebuilding mode, thus making it ok to just get some stop gab big or even not that.

[mudyez]

I don't. They hit a a couple of draft picks twenty years ago. Nothing all that special recently.

People think every late firstrounder becomes a productive NBA player. Take a look at the draft boards over the last years! So many guys (even in the lottery) that didn't get a second contract or not even really sticking around for more than some training sessions. Sure the Spurs missed out on some talents like Jokic as well (as did nearly everyone), but when going though the Spurs firstrounders and taking into account where they drafted, they did pretty well. Just look up any draft history of regular playoff teams and you wont remember most of the namens taken. I take White, Keldon, Murray and Co over all of them, even though I have to admit, that drafting higher and not effin' it up is a other story.

[slick'81]

People think every late firstrounder becomes a productive NBA player. Take a look at the draft boards over the last years! So many guys (even in the lottery) that didn't get a second contract or not even really sticking around for more than some training sessions. Sure the Spurs missed out on some talents like Jokic as well (as did nearly everyone), but when going though the Spurs firstrounders and taking into account where they drafted, they did pretty well. Just look up any draft history of regular playoff teams and you wont remember most of the namens taken. I take White, Keldon, Murray and Co over all of them, even though I have to admit, that drafting higher and not effin' it up is a other story.


Spurs can develop players period. Lets see what they can do with babyface PRIMo

[ace3g]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/E7qZSLqWUAEE8tP?format=jpg&name=large

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/E7qd6SqWEAIs0Jk?format=jpg&name=large

[slick'81]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/E7qZSLqWUAEE8tP?format=jpg&name=large

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/E7qd6SqWEAIs0Jk?format=jpg&name=large

dude has some man hands,and fingers like edward scissor hands. JohnB is surely satisfied

[SAGirl]

https://youtu.be/-yBwis43OPE

[ace3g]

https://www.nba.com/spurs/sites/spurs/files/20210811_sas_rt_joshprimorookiesigning_08.jpeg (https://www.nba.com/spurs/news/spurs-sign-2021-first-round-pick-josh-primo)
SPURS SIGN 2021 FIRST ROUND PICK JOSH PRIMO (https://www.nba.com/spurs/news/spurs-sign-2021-first-round-pick-josh-primo)
SAN ANTONIO (August 11, 2021) – The San Antonio Spurs today announced that they have signed guard Josh Primo. Per team policy, terms of the contract were not announced.

[ace3g]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/E8joLZtVcAQr0tQ?format=jpg&name=large (https://t.co/mmiMalqvXD)
View original (https://t.co/mmiMalqvXD)Flag media (https://tweetdeck.twitter.com/#)



https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/1069403041940602880/Bb1X4Bjr_normal.jpg
Tom Petrini realTomPetrini
(https://twitter.com/RealTomPetrini) 1m (https://twitter.com/RealTomPetrini/status/1425644567198539778)
Fascinating nugget about Josh Primo’s ambidexterity, thanks to @big_oh_tea (https://twitter.com/big_oh_tea/) for pointing this out si.com/nba/thunder/dr… (https://t.co/KnBEusYExz) twitter.com/spurs/status/1… (https://t.co/zDyKo2wZmm)

[ace3g]

CSdR-piLli-

[GAustex]

So far he has good form on his shot. He stumbles around a bit. Loose with the ball on the dribble.
Patience I guess. Still waiting on some of that high draft pick class.

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/duanerankin/status/1425646306307936256?s=21

Talent aside, Primo looks the part of a star for some reason. His facial features remind me of Kobe.

[John B]

CSdR-piLli-

I guess I'll be rooting for you kid!

[Chinook]

This means Primo can't be traded for 30 days. It's possible the Simmons stuff isn't resolved by then -- and SA doesn't have to make any roster moves until after camp. But had he remained unsigned, he had a better chance to being dealt.

Though maybe his salary is needed for matching. :stirpot:

[R. DeMurre]

I don't get why people feel the need to continue the schtick that Primo is 6'6".... he was literally measured a month and a half ago at the NBA combine and was 6'4" in bare feet and 6'5" in shoes. If he grows another inch or two, that would be great... but repeating info that we know is fabricated to bolster an argument is silly.

[slick'81]

I don't get why people feel the need to continue the schtick that Primo is 6'6".... he was literally measured a month and a half ago at the NBA combine and was 6'4" in bare feet and 6'5" in shoes. If he grows another inch or two, that would be great... but repeating info that we know is fabricated to bolster an argument is silly.

because it sounds cooler being 6'6 then 6'4

[Maddog]

because it sounds cooler being 6'6 then 6'4

193 or 198 cm
Sounds even more impressive

[Maddog]

because it sounds cooler being 6'6 then 6'4

193 or 198 cm
Sounds even more impressive

[CGD]

I guess I'll be rooting for you kid!

Interesting, he shoots right handed but signs his contract with left.

[ragas]

Interesting, he shoots right handed but signs his contract with left.

Noticed this too. Already smarter than Ben Simmons.

[John B]

Interesting, he shoots right handed but signs his contract with left.
I read somewhere that he’s ambidextrous? He does everything with left hand but his dad taught him to shoot with his right

[K...]

https://www.nba.com/spurs/sites/spurs/files/20210811_sas_rt_joshprimorookiesigning_08.jpeg (https://www.nba.com/spurs/news/spurs-sign-2021-first-round-pick-josh-primo)
SPURS SIGN 2021 FIRST ROUND PICK JOSH PRIMO (https://www.nba.com/spurs/news/spurs-sign-2021-first-round-pick-josh-primo)
SAN ANTONIO (August 11, 2021) – The San Antonio Spurs today announced that they have signed guard Josh Primo. Per team policy, terms of the contract were not announced.

Have you ever seen a gm so high on. CREAM?

[LeBowen]

Left-handed? Interesting, because he's shooting with his right.

Hopefully he's ambidextrous and it helps him with handles and finishing around the rim.

[james evans]

if this guy becomes as good as he's projected, Murray's non shooting azz is gone..

[XDT76]

I don't get why people feel the need to continue the schtick that Primo is 6'6".... he was literally measured a month and a half ago at the NBA combine and was 6'4" in bare feet and 6'5" in shoes. If he grows another inch or two, that would be great... but repeating info that we know is fabricated to bolster an argument is silly.

It's not too bad, I see in other places where people are so confident that he will be 6'8" in a year or 2. When I asked them how many people they knew grew 2 inches after 18 years old no one answered me.

[barakz21]

It's not too bad, I see in other places where people are so confident that he will be 6'8" in a year or 2. When I asked them how many people they knew grew 2 inches after 18 years old no one answered me.

Isn’t DJ 6’5, and was drafted at that height? He hasn’t grown. It is possible though. Iirc, Dorell Wright when he was with the Heat I think grew from 6’7 to 6’10. But definitely not a certainty.

[exstatic]

It's not too bad, I see in other places where people are so confident that he will be 6'8" in a year or 2. When I asked them how many people they knew grew 2 inches after 18 years old no one answered me.

David Robinson. 7” after his sophomore year in college. Frank Ntilikina was allegedly measured at 6’6” at a FIBA event in 2019 after being drafted at 6’4” when he was 19.

I would say the chances are much higher than average for Primo since his growth plates are still open.

[John B]

Isn’t DJ 6’5, and was drafted at that height? He hasn’t grown. It is possible though. Iirc, Dorell Wright when he was with the Heat I think grew from 6’7 to 6’10. But definitely not a certainty.
Josh already has good size as a guard. If he grew some, it would be a bonus. What I notice, besides what they indicated him having big hands, is the kid has big thighs :lol. That only helps his center of gravity. I don’t doubt that he’s going to be another big body, who can backdown smaller defenders. It’s a stretch, but I always like MJ posting, and with his big hands, just waves the ball around like a grapefruit :lol. If he comes close, I’d name my next kid Brian. :lol

https://www.spurstalk.com/forums/blob:https://www.spurstalk.com/62d88e93-925f-4a6b-b643-23d96454cea3

[Ocotillo]

Nothing to do with anything but man, Brian Wright has some really hairy arms.

[emanueldavidginobili]

CSdR-piLli-
Damn he really is ambidextrous, writing with his left hand cool stuff.

[Sugus]

So a lefty, with advanced dribbling ISO moves, prominent perimeter shooter with a great stroke from 3, not really athletic by NBA standards but has the ability to play at his own pace undisrupted, is also a crafty passer, and has good size and build for a shooting guard, and projects to be a score-first player.....

Hmm, I'm really struggling to find a comp for him, tbh. Hope the Spurs don't cheap out on his future contracts :lol

[Chinook]

Durant, George and Giannis all also grew during their NBA careers. Another two inches, and he's a PF candidate.

[timvp]

LeBron writes with his left and does everything with his left except shoot a basketball. Good sign for Primo :tu

Buuuuuuuuuuuuuuuut ... Ben Simmons writes with his right and does everything with his right except he shoots with his left hand. Yeah, not as good of a sign, tbh :lol

[Maddog]

LeBron writes with his left and does everything with his left except shoot a basketball. Good sign for Primo :tu

Buuuuuuuuuuuuuuuut ... Ben Simmons writes with his right and does everything with his right except he shoots with his left hand. Yeah, not as good of a sign, tbh :lol

Simmons isn't doing it the right way

[Ignazzz]

LeBron writes with his left and does everything with his left except shoot a basketball. Good sign for Primo :tu

Buuuuuuuuuuuuuuuut ... Ben Simmons writes with his right and does everything with his right except he shoots with his left hand. Yeah, not as good of a sign, tbh :lol

Simons doesnt shoot so not true

[spurraider21]

Brian Wrights answers are very concerning:

https://twitter.com/realtompetrini/status/1420978294367809544?s=21
i generally agree with the second half of that. a bad team should just stockpile the most talent it can, instead of worrying about plugging short term holes at the right positions.

but i think its really dumb to keep picking guys that you believe will be multi-year projects (Luka, Primo). and then to sandwich that with a guy who's ceiling is role player like Vassell

[Sugus]

i generally agree with the second half of that. a bad team should just stockpile the most talent it can, instead of worrying about plugging short term holes at the right positions.

but i think its really dumb to keep picking guys that you believe will be multi-year projects (Luka, Primo). and then to sandwich that with a guy who's ceiling is role player like Vassell

I think the obvious answer to this, especially given the role they've been having Vassell play at in SL (whether he's excelling on it or not is a different topic :lol), is that they don't see Vassell's ceiling as a role playing 3&D. They definitely have hopes he develops into a more versatile scorer, and have been (trying to) developing him as such. I don't trust it all that much, but it's not a wacky theory, especially given Devin's college game and tape.

[Sugus]

LeBron writes with his left and does everything with his left except shoot a basketball. Good sign for Primo :tu

Buuuuuuuuuuuuuuuut ... Ben Simmons writes with his right and does everything with his right except he shoots with his left hand. Yeah, not as good of a sign, tbh :lol

Nah, it's different, because Simmons is anything but fluid in his "lefty" shooting motion. Guy literally looks like he's getting ready to shoot with one hand, then flicks the other wrist at the end of it. He definitely looks like the textbook case of getting "coached into ambidexterity" instead of having a natural gift for it. LeBron's shot is nothing like that, and thankfully Primo's isn't either.

Obviously doesn't necessarily mean Primo can develop such high-level finishing and handling abilities with both hands, but we can all dream for a bit tbh :lol

[tim_duncan_fan]

Yeah...Cousin Josh does not pass the eye-test for 6'6. Hopefully he grows to actually be that.

Hopefully he has the handles for the NBA, not to mention the athleticism.

[pad300]

Durant, George and Giannis all also grew during their NBA careers. Another two inches, and he's a PF SF candidate.

FIFY

As of the combine he is 6'4" barefoot...

[TheGreatYacht]

Awful pick. No matter how much the short bus spins it.

[slick'81]

Wtf is he still sitting? Injury?

[tbdog]

Yeah...Cousin Josh does not pass the eye-test for 6'6. Hopefully he grows to actually be that.

Hopefully he has the handles for the NBA, not to mention the athleticism.

He is 18 years old. Give him a break.

[tim_duncan_fan]

He is 18 years old. Give him a break.

I'm not trying to be super hard on him, but he does get the ball taken from him alot lol

[Manu&Duncan fan]

LeBron writes with his left and does everything with his left except shoot a basketball. Good sign for Primo :tu

Buuuuuuuuuuuuuuuut ... Ben Simmons writes with his right and does everything with his right except he shoots with his left hand. Yeah, not as good of a sign, tbh :lol

Primo can already shoot and make deep 3s. So, I'm not worried about his shooting.

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/ua_ctsn/status/1425862197822074886?s=21

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/realtompetrini/status/1426201863553273865?s=21

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/spursmeninblack/status/1426205100238770178?s=21

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/kerryk42/status/1425946610148782081?s=21

[Sugus]

https://twitter.com/spursmeninblack/status/1426205100238770178?s=21

I'm surprised no one's yet talked about how taking Primo a year early means he'll get on that NBA "Special Diet" a year early too, especially important given he's not done growing. How much HGH can a body take? I want lil Cuz' taking about that much for supper, tbh.

But the biggest takeaway from this pic IMO is that Vassell is still really slender. We'll see how he fares this year against NBA competition, but I'd like him to put on more weight still.

[Allan Rowe vs Wade]

I don't get why people feel the need to continue the schtick that Primo is 6'6".... he was literally measured a month and a half ago at the NBA combine and was 6'4" in bare feet and 6'5" in shoes. If he grows another inch or two, that would be great... but repeating info that we know is fabricated to bolster an argument is silly.

you are correct sir

looking at the measureables: https://www.nba.com/stats/draft/combine-anthro/

interesting that primo has big ol hands -- and weiskamp clocking in at a 4.1% body fat. get this cracker some chicken salad stat!

[timvp]

https://twitter.com/realtompetrini/status/1426201863553273865?s=21

Good find, Dejounte :tu

Add what he said in that interview with what he said in this interview (https://nbamath.com/hardwood-knocks-episode-486-nba-agent-todd-ramasar-on-josh-primo-to-the-spurs-pre-draft-process/), the agent is saying Primo was going to go 11th to the Hornets until Bouknight surprisingly fell to that spot. I'm not sure if I 100% buy that (Primo is nothing like a typical Jordan pick) but that's interesting.

It also sounds like the Spurs were initially interested in Primo with their 41st pick at the outset of the draft process but eventually figured out that he was going to be long gone by then. As I posted before the draft, I heard the Spurs were interested in Primo ... but I wrongly assumed it was with their second round pick even though the intel wasn't specific. In retrospect, I should have known better because even most mocks had him long gone by 41.

The Earl Watson connection also seems to have played a role in the Spurs being comfortable. Watson was a coach with the Toros so the Spurs had a nice connection when Watson was Primo's main pre-draft coach.

[timvp]

https://twitter.com/spursmeninblack/status/1426205100238770178?s=21

Gotta love these forced perspective pics that fans use to judge height :lol

Primo just got measured a couple months ago. He's 6-foot-5 with shoes on. There's like a 1% chance he grows taller (the times a player has legitimately grown taller after getting drafted can be counted on one hand) and it certainly wouldn't have happened in a few weeks.

[playbonner15]

Good find, Dejounte (https://www.spurstalk.com/forums/member.php?u=51342) :tu

Add what he said in that interview with what he said in this interview (https://nbamath.com/hardwood-knocks-episode-486-nba-agent-todd-ramasar-on-josh-primo-to-the-spurs-pre-draft-process/), the agent is saying Primo was going to go 11th to the Hornets until Bouknight surprisingly fell to that spot. I'm not sure if I 100% buy that (Primo is nothing like a typical Jordan pick) but that's interesting.

It also sounds like the Spurs were initially interested in Primo with their 41st pick at the outset of the draft process but eventually figured out that he was going to be long gone by then. As I posted before the draft, I heard the Spurs were interested in Primo ... but I wrongly assumed it was with their second round pick even though the intel wasn't specific. In retrospect, I should have known better because even most mocks had him long gone by 41.

The Earl Watson connection also seems to have played a role in the Spurs being comfortable. Watson was a coach with the Toros so the Spurs had a nice connection when Watson was Primo's main pre-draft coach.


Saw somewhere that Presti was planning to draft Primo, so that rumor might have forced Spurs FO to use the pick on Primo

[Dejounte]

Gotta love these forced perspective pics that fans use to judge height :lol

Primo just got measured a couple months ago. He's 6-foot-5 with shoes on. There's like a 1% chance he grows taller (the times a player has legitimately grown taller after getting drafted can be counted on one hand) and it certainly wouldn't have happened in a few weeks.

i dont think the guy who tweeted that was making a claim that he was 6’6” or anything like that. I think he was just pointing out that he’s barely shorter than our starting PF (who’s the same height as Draymond, maybe taller) and not much shorter than Devin pretty much pointing to that Primo’s 6’5”. But again, regardless of all these measurements the fact that he isn’t much shorter compared to guys we’ve seen play is a good sign he should be able to match up with wings, or at the very least big guards.

it is odd though that the spurs.com site says he’s 6’6” on the article where Primo signed his contract

[Dejounte]

https://i.ibb.co/k1K7WxJ/A8383-AE7-B3-CB-4-B0-C-A4-A7-297-C8964-BF46.png

[John B]

I'm surprised no one's yet talked about how taking Primo a year early means he'll get on that NBA "Special Diet" a year early too, especially important given he's not done growing. How much HGH can a body take? I want lil Cuz' taking about that much for supper, tbh.

But the biggest takeaway from this pic IMO is that Vassell is still really slender. We'll see how he fares this year against NBA competition, but I'd like him to put on more weight still.

I agree. Primo’s frame looks like he’s going to be packed, and not that slender type at all. I’ve mentioned before that looking at pictures, I noticed he has big thighs and would really help his center of gravity, and enormous hands to have better control of the ball.

Regarding Vassell, yes I expected him to have gotten bigger by now. But if that body could help him defend and chase blocks like Thayshaun Prince did, is okay by me too :lol

Lastly, somebody mentioned Weiskamp with 4.1% body fat. And already he’s a better rebounder. I suspect that he’s another gym rat with high motor. I think he’s going to be a better defender once Pop got through to him, and excellent candidate for a 3 and D guy.

[John B]

https://i.ibb.co/k1K7WxJ/A8383-AE7-B3-CB-4-B0-C-A4-A7-297-C8964-BF46.png

This picture of Primo looks like he’s not far from Keldon and Vassell’s height, definitely not 6’4ish. He’s even wearing sandals. I suspect he’s going to be as big as Keldon. Watch out :lol. It’s also nice to see that he’s already getting along with the young core, and not shy at all. That’s confidence, and follows leadership. I mean this kid’s 18.

[Mugen]

Gotta love these forced perspective pics that fans use to judge height :lol

Primo just got measured a couple months ago. He's 6-foot-5 with shoes on. There's like a 1% chance he grows taller (the times a player has legitimately grown taller after getting drafted can be counted on one hand) and it certainly wouldn't have happened in a few weeks.

B-b-but his growth plates! CIA Pop! :lol

I haven't seen anything from this kid that jumps out to me that would justify his draft spot. Usually when you go with somebody that young, it's because they have crazy athleticism or freak measurements - neither of which Primo possesses.

I'm guessing they liked him because he seems to be a high culture guy and he played well in BoB and the Draft Scrimmage :lol

I hope he pans out but this seems like the last holdout (drafting) of a once successful organization crumbling before our eyes

[Maddog]

Gotta love these forced perspective pics that fans use to judge height :lol

Primo just got measured a couple months ago. He's 6-foot-5 with shoes on. There's like a 1% chance he grows taller (the times a player has legitimately grown taller after getting drafted can be counted on one hand) and it certainly wouldn't have happened in a few weeks.

Well definitely not going to happen in a week. And yes you can probably count on 1-2 hands the number who have grown post draft. However, Primo is still young and per reports his epiphysial plates haven't fused so I would say it's greater than chance 1% he grows more.
I wonder if they have more data- like Igf-1 levels?
Not sure they get to that level of inquiry

[GAustex]

B-b-but his growth plates! CIA Pop! :lol

I haven't seen anything from this kid that jumps out to me that would justify his draft spot. Usually when you go with somebody that young, it's because they have crazy athleticism or freak measurements - neither of which Primo possesses.

I'm guessing they liked him because he seems to be a high culture guy and he played well in BoB and the Draft Scrimmage :lol

I hope he pans out but this seems like the last holdout (drafting) of a once successful organization crumbling before our eyes
All the hype men are out in full force-for sure.
Hope the kid turns out well. So far he shows good form on a jumper and trips and stumbles a lot, turns it over and throws up pitiful layups.
Patience I guess

[Atl Spur]

All the hype men are out in full force-for sure.
Hope the kid turns out well. So far he shows good form on a jumper and trips and stumbles a lot, turns it over and throws up pitiful layups.
Patience I guess

Let that man live.....he’s 18 and just starting out in the best league in the world. Let that sink in.....

[Mnky]

18 yr old with good size and athleticism. He DOES have the James harden slow gene tho. He seems like he just takes plays off or stops abruptly. Harden is the only other play I see do that that can also just raise up and dunk and you. Thats not a good thing in my opinion, just pointing it out. The kid IS athletic.

Yea, I'm not buy the forced perspective. The kid does not look like a small PG. Clearly. He has good size. It should allow him to play to the 3 at the very least.

His shooting ability is above average. He still air balls shots. He's 18. His shot at 18 looks better than half the league. I'll take that any day.

I honestly believe if the hornets didn't take bouk, the spurs do. I also believe the hornets talk about primo before bouk. They both fill the same type of player although they play differently. Bouk more of a Westbrook type. Primo more of a harden type.
They are not anywhere near those players, just how the game plays out.

Spurs draft players that show they grow year to year. Kawhi was a great example. Even though he came in with plenty of room to grow, each step of his path he showed he was constantly growing in his game. Primo has that attribute at just 18. Every step he has shown his game get better. Those are great types to draft. They're proven commodities in growth. Maybe he doesn't get all star level, not many do, but he will grow his game and get better.

[GAustex]

Let that man live.....he’s 18 and just starting out in the best league in the world. Let that sink in.....
The team needs dudes that can play. He aint this year from all appearances. So it’s not so much the pickee but the picker.
Let that sink in…

[R. DeMurre]

:lol Keldon was originally listed in the NBA combine results as a shooting guard and measured 6'4.75" in bare feet and 6'6" in shoes. He's a big body, sure, but he's still undersized for a SF, nevermind a PF... saying that Primo is almost as tall as Keldon (OMG!!!) is essentially the same as bragging that he's only 2-1/2" or 3" shorter than Cam Reddish, & only 2" shorter than Johnny Juzang, & 3/4" taller than Tre Mann! I like the kid and am rooting hard for him, but geez, this first impulse to knowingly fudge/hype the numbers is hilarious.

[313]

What’s up with PATFO taking oversized point guards/undersized shooting guards every year?

I guess if you play the numbers game one of them has to be good.

[J_Paco]

What’s up with PATFO taking oversized point guards/undersized shooting guards every year?

I guess if you play the numbers game one of them has to be good.

Yeah, in simpler terms that is what they're doing.

Looking for a high - level PG, SG or combo, which they seemingly haven't found yet.

I don't have the same level of anger as draft night (about the pick), finding another elite level talent to pair with them (at a different position of need) must happen too.

They clearly saw things that were missed by many - myself included - with their advanced data and more thorough game tape(s) (high school, AAU, etc.).

Had he been a year older and given a bigger role at Alabama, then he could've conceivably been outside of their draft range.

[Mr. Body]

What’s up with PATFO taking oversized point guards/undersized shooting guards every year?

I guess if you play the numbers game one of them has to be good.

What's wrong with oversized point guards?

[Dejounte]

:lol Keldon was originally listed in the NBA combine results as a shooting guard and measured 6'4.75" in bare feet and 6'6" in shoes. He's a big body, sure, but he's still undersized for a SF, nevermind a PF... saying that Primo is almost as tall as Keldon (OMG!!!) is essentially the same as bragging that he's only 2-1/2" or 3" shorter than Cam Reddish, & only 2" shorter than Johnny Juzang, & 3/4" taller than Tre Mann! I like the kid and am rooting hard for him, but geez, this first impulse to knowingly fudge/hype the numbers is hilarious.

First, stop being so triggered by everything I post and then indirectly responding to me like a pussy :lmao

second, I literally addressed that all things point to Primo being 6’5”, so no one is fucking with the numbers.

third, again, Johnson looks as big as Draymond who has been defending larger guys for a long time now. Whether people want to accept it or not, the league is being overrun now with players who were once thought to be too small for specific positions. It’s been two years since Johnson’s combine measurements were taken, and he’s said himself he’s grown since his listed height. Whether that’s true or not, I dont know.

https://media.gettyimages.com/photos/keldon-johnson-and-draymond-green-of-the-usa-mens-national-team-pose-picture-id1234543755?s=2048x2048

[R. DeMurre]

:lol

triggered

[GAustex]

Hype men be hyping

[Dejounte]

Hype men be hyping

posting tweets isn’t hyping

[offset formation]

So a lefty, with advanced dribbling ISO moves, prominent perimeter shooter with a great stroke from 3, not really athletic by NBA standards but has the ability to play at his own pace undisrupted, is also a crafty passer, and has good size and build for a shooting guard, and projects to be a score-first player.....

Hmm, I'm really struggling to find a comp for him, tbh. Hope the Spurs don't cheap out on his future contracts :lol

all true...but also true: bad decision making; poor handles in traffic; turnover prone while running point.

those are not insignificant hurdles to overcome even with all the pluses you mentioned.

[Mr. Body]

18 yr old with good size and athleticism. He DOES have the James harden slow gene tho. He seems like he just takes plays off or stops abruptly. Harden is the only other play I see do that that can also just raise up and dunk and you. Thats not a good thing in my opinion, just pointing it out. The kid IS athletic.

Yea, I'm not buy the forced perspective. The kid does not look like a small PG. Clearly. He has good size. It should allow him to play to the 3 at the very least.

His shooting ability is above average. He still air balls shots. He's 18. His shot at 18 looks better than half the league. I'll take that any day.

I honestly believe if the hornets didn't take bouk, the spurs do. I also believe the hornets talk about primo before bouk. They both fill the same type of player although they play differently. Bouk more of a Westbrook type. Primo more of a harden type.
They are not anywhere near those players, just how the game plays out.

Spurs draft players that show they grow year to year. Kawhi was a great example. Even though he came in with plenty of room to grow, each step of his path he showed he was constantly growing in his game. Primo has that attribute at just 18. Every step he has shown his game get better. Those are great types to draft. They're proven commodities in growth. Maybe he doesn't get all star level, not many do, but he will grow his game and get better.

Good thoughts. I honestly don't think the Spurs would have taken Bouknight. Not only can he not shoot from deep, he doesn't seem to be a cultural fit. I still imagine a scenario where the Spurs were tabbing Primo and expected Sengun to go earlier, but might have expected belatedly Primo to get picked by the Hornets only to see him fall. There might have been some very intense debate over five minutes before they opted to stick with the Alabama guard.

[Mr. Body]

all true...but also true: bad decision making; poor handles in traffic; turnover prone while running point.

those are not insignificant hurdles to overcome even with all the pluses you mentioned.

I wouldn't be surprised to see him clean much of that stuff up pretty quickly.

[J_Paco]

all true...but also true: bad decision making; poor handles in traffic; turnover prone while running point.

those are not insignificant hurdles to overcome even with all the pluses you mentioned.

He's an 18 - year old, "project" that wasn't given the primary ballhandling nor playmaking duties in his lone season in college.

Of course he has flaws to iron - some of which he never will - but the offensive upside is there and evident.

The situation is similar to when Phoenix picked Devin Booker out of Kentucky, even with a limited role & tape that hid some of his skills, or when Portland selected Anfernee Simons (age, inexperience) straight out of high school.

Jury is still out on Simons, but Booker has turned into an all-star/star level guard.

[duncan2k5]

He's an 18 - year old, "project" that wasn't given the primary ballhandling nor playmaking duties in his lone season in college.

Of course he has flaws to iron - some of which he never will - but the offensive upside is there and evident.

The situation is similar to when Phoenix picked Devin Booker out of Kentucky, even with a limited role & tape that hid some of his skills, or when Portland selected Anfernee Simons (age, inexperience) straight out of high school.

Jury is still out on Simons, but Booker has turned into an all-star/star level guard.

Booker was given the green light... Pop will fuck with Primo to the point where we will be bashing him like we currently do to Lonnie and Luka

[SpursDynasty85]

First, stop being so triggered by everything I post and then indirectly responding to me like a pussy :lmao

second, I literally addressed that all things point to Primo being 6’5”, so no one is fucking with the numbers.

third, again, Johnson looks as big as Draymond who has been defending larger guys for a long time now. Whether people want to accept it or not, the league is being overrun now with players who were once thought to be too small for specific positions. It’s been two years since Johnson’s combine measurements were taken, and he’s said himself he’s grown since his listed height. Whether that’s true or not, I dont know.

https://media.gettyimages.com/photos/keldon-johnson-and-draymond-green-of-the-usa-mens-national-team-pose-picture-id1234543755?s=2048x2048


Draymond is clearly bigger though in pretty much all combine measurements though. No one would say Draymond is a 3 but Keldon is clearly a tweener 3/4. Biggest difference is that Draymond has a 7’ 1.25” wingspan. Dude is a beast. If Keldon just had a wingspan closer to 7’ he would be a nice 4. Keldon can partner with another forward and share 3/4 duties but when 3 guards are on the floor and Keldon is our 4, we look pretty pitiful defending the paint and rebounding tbh.

[TimDunkem]

Draymond is clearly bigger though in pretty much all combine measurements though. No one would say Draymond is a 3 but Keldon is clearly a tweener 3/4. Biggest difference is that Draymond has a 7’ 1.25” wingspan. Dude is a beast. If Keldon just had a wingspan closer to 7’ he would be a nice 4. Keldon can partner with another forward and share 3/4 duties but when 3 guards are on the floor and Keldon is our 4, we look pretty pitiful defending the paint and rebounding tbh.
Yeah, KJ will do well against other midget lineups, but we're set to get killed on the boards this year.

[Dejounte]

Draymond is clearly bigger though in pretty much all combine measurements though. No one would say Draymond is a 3 but Keldon is clearly a tweener 3/4. Biggest difference is that Draymond has a 7’ 1.25” wingspan. Dude is a beast. If Keldon just had a wingspan closer to 7’ he would be a nice 4. Keldon can partner with another forward and share 3/4 duties but when 3 guards are on the floor and Keldon is our 4, we look pretty pitiful defending the paint and rebounding tbh.

I’m of the opinion that standing reach is more important than wingspan when you’re playing as a big, and Draymond’s SR is 1” greater than Keldon’s (which probably allows him to play C whereas Keldon can’t).

and I flat out disagree that our issue last season was defending the paint. Rebounds, sure. Interior defense? No. Perimeter defense is where the team struggled most. Gay, Mills, DeMar were huge contributors to that.

[Russ]

Booker was given the green light... Pop will fuck with Primo to the point where we will be bashing him like we currently do to Lonnie and Luka

So how do you explain Tony Parker (a literal teenager handed the keys to a dynasty)?

[SpursDynasty85]

I’m of the opinion that standing reach is more important than wingspan when you’re playing as a big, and Draymond’s SR is 1” greater than Keldon’s (which probably allows him to play C whereas Keldon can’t).

and I flat out disagree that our issue last season was defending the paint. Rebounds, sure. Interior defense? No. Perimeter defense is where the team struggled most. Gay, Mills, DeMar were huge contributors to that.

Draymond gets help from the best offensive weapons in today’s NBA. Rebounding is a huge part of defending the paint. Young guys like Aminu and Young would’ve been a great partner. We will have to do with McDermott I suppose.

[Mr. Body]

He's an 18 - year old, "project" that wasn't given the primary ballhandling nor playmaking duties in his lone season in college.

Of course he has flaws to iron - some of which he never will - but the offensive upside is there and evident.

The situation is similar to when Phoenix picked Devin Booker out of Kentucky, even with a limited role & tape that hid some of his skills, or when Portland selected Anfernee Simons (age, inexperience) straight out of high school.

Jury is still out on Simons, but Booker has turned into an all-star/star level guard.

Simmons was mostly the same player at LSU that he is now. He has no work ethic nor will to improve. Booker has worked hard and the difference is evident. Primo is mapped well into the Booker territory of the two.

[Mnky]

Good thoughts. I honestly don't think the Spurs would have taken Bouknight. Not only can he not shoot from deep, he doesn't seem to be a cultural fit. I still imagine a scenario where the Spurs were tabbing Primo and expected Sengun to go earlier, but might have expected belatedly Primo to get picked by the Hornets only to see him fall. There might have been some very intense debate over five minutes before they opted to stick with the Alabama guard.

Maybe they still stay with primo if they're both there. I had a strong feeling they were definitely going guard that could get their own buckets and distribute. Our young guys really struggle to consistently get their own shot or call their own number which may be the veteran presence playing in as well.
Bouk seemed like the pick right before he wasn't an option anymore. I think bouk showed he can be that next level scorer compared to others in the draft. He seems like a good candidate to be able to develop that outside shot due to his inside game. Especially with a development team like the spurs.

The culture thing definitely gave Primo an advantage as you said. They love their culture.

[Russ]

Simmons was mostly the same player at LSU that he is now. He has no work ethic nor will to improve. Booker has worked hard and the difference is evident. Primo is mapped well into the Booker territory of the two.

Simmons couldn't even get his LSU team an at-large NCAA berth. That's a pretty low bar and he didn't seem particularly concerned about it.

[J_Paco]

Simmons was mostly the same player at LSU that he is now. He has no work ethic nor will to improve. Booker has worked hard and the difference is evident. Primo is mapped well into the Booker territory of the two.

No, not Ben Simmons, but Anfernee Simons out of IMG Academy (pretty much preps - to - pros).

He was 19 - years old when drafted, but pretty much straight out of high school.

Primo is a similar possible high upside project, yet our kid is a year younger (coming into the league) and has a year of college experience.

[John B]

So how do you explain Tony Parker (a literal teenager handed the keys to a dynasty)?

It wasn’t really that bad if you’re passing the ball to future HOFers Timmy, DRob and Manu.

[ace3g]

CSm7VjJsrk2

[ace3g]

His offensive game also reminds me a bit of Kyrie.

CSuzGG5tRd-

[Degoat]

According to that NBASupes guy from the hawks website, the hawks were trying to trade up to pick 9 for Primo.

[Seventyniner]

According to that NBASupes guy from the hawks website, the hawks were trying to trade up to pick 9 for Primo.

Interesting if true.

There always seem to be those players that several FOs suddenly highly covet just before and during the draft. I wonder if any studies have been done on how those players do?

[Dejounte]

When did this dude and Keldon play together?

[Manu&Duncan fan]

His offensive game also reminds me a bit of Kyrie.

CSuzGG5tRd-

He could be a kyrie with better defense. After watching him play, I'm not shocked Hawks wanted to get him at #9.

[Sugus]

He could be a kyrie with better defense. After watching him play, I'm not shocked Hawks wanted to get him at #9.

I like Primo and all, but lower your expectations y'all. No way on Earth Primo becomes a Kyrie; Kyrie has a smoothness and finesse to his game that he was born with, and that Primo (and most prospects on Earth, I'm not slighting Cuz) just can't replicate, and it showed very early on. There's a reason he went #1.

I'd be happy with Primo if he could become something like a Dlo with defense, volume shooter with playmaking duties (that isn't a net negative on the other side of the ball).

[ceperez]

First, stop being so triggered by everything I post and then indirectly responding to me like a pussy :lmao

second, I literally addressed that all things point to Primo being 6’5”, so no one is fucking with the numbers.

third, again, Johnson looks as big as Draymond who has been defending larger guys for a long time now. Whether people want to accept it or not, the league is being overrun now with players who were once thought to be too small for specific positions. It’s been two years since Johnson’s combine measurements were taken, and he’s said himself he’s grown since his listed height. Whether that’s true or not, I dont know.

https://media.gettyimages.com/photos/keldon-johnson-and-draymond-green-of-the-usa-mens-national-team-pose-picture-id1234543755?s=2048x2048

What the hell... isn't Green at least 6'6"?

[Mnky]

According to the latest rumors on Primo definitely having other suitors in the lottery, there's news that Primo took x-rays and MRIs at Alabama and his growth plates are still open.

:lobt2:

[exstatic]

According to the latest rumors on Primo definitely having other suitors in the lottery, there's news that Primo took x-rays and MRIs at Alabama and his growth plates are still open.

:lobt2:

Two weeks ago just called. Wants it’s news story back.

[KobesAchilles]

:pop: we drafted him at 12 this year bc he would've been available at 12 next year. And since we would've drafted him in the same spot next year, that means I don't have to call him up from Austin until 2024! It's the best of both worlds

[SpursDynasty85]

What the hell... isn't Green at least 6'6"?

Draymond is probably in some low sitting flip flops at this point.

[spurraider21]

you guys need to stop freaking out over every 0.01 inch difference you spot in random photos. you can see from how he plays whether he has the size for a certain position or not :lol

[exstatic]

you guys need to stop freaking out over every 0.01 inch difference you spot in random photos. you can see from how he plays whether he has the size for a certain position or not :lol

Careful, you’ll get called a hater for calling out obvious height obsession…

[R. DeMurre]

I like Primo's court demeanor and confidence-- he passes the eye test, and the age issue is certainly on his side-- interestingly enough, just as it was for Pokusevski last season when he was the youngest player in the NBA (younger than Primo by 2 days), though no critics of Poku ever bothered to bring that up in debates :lol. Like Pokusevski in his first season though, Primo's overall metrics have not been too impressive so far, and it's easy to see why his champions have shied away pretty noticeably from posting them. So, for the sake of balance, I thought I would do that. Obviously, it's a very small sample size of 4 Summer League games...

25.2 mpg
14.25 ppg
36.2 FG%
27.6 3pt%
2.75 rpg
2.5 apg
3.25 TOpg
OWS: -0.19
DWS: 0.02
WS: -0.17
ORtg: 82.9
DRtg: 105.3


I'm still a fan of Pokusevki and give his terrible Year One advanced stats a pass because he was an 18 year old going up against NBA pros, plus he was adapting to the USA/Oklahoma and speaking English, after adapting the year before to Greece and Greek. If Primo ends his first season with the same flourish that Pokusevski did this year, it would be a very positive sign, and I'd be happy with his progress. Other than that, I'm happy to say it'll be at a few years before I'll make any assessment of his future as a Spur, other than to say that he looks nice and I'm rooting for him, but comparisons to Kobe, Kyrie, and Steph seem extraordinarily premature.

https://basketball.realgm.com/player/Joshua-Primo/Summary/134341

[Mr. Body]

Pokusevski is possibly the worst shooter I've ever seen. Absolutely awful, and in a hilarious, spectacular, you've-got-to-see-this kind of way. Horrible form, just slinging it vainly toward the iron, clanging it off backboard and whatever came in the way. Just superbly shitty as a shooter. And here's the kicker -- he never stopped. Would not stop shooting. The guy has supreme confidence and no capability as a shooter whatsoever. It's truly impressive, and then the coaching staff and GM seem to simply let him do it, like a Make a Wish Foundation kid.

[RobinsontoDuncan]

Primo does not pass the eye test. He doesn’t look athletic enough to be a game changer in the NBA. He looks like someone who has the chance to be a better shooting Kyle Anderson.

[SpursDynasty85]

Primo does not pass the eye test. He doesn’t look athletic enough to be a game changer in the NBA. He looks like someone who has the chance to be a better shooting Kyle Anderson.


Lonnie and Samanic pass the eye test but Primo will probably end up with the better career. Book it.

[The Truth #6]

Careful with eye testing or the notorious Drew Show may get in here and curse us out in Esperanto.

[The Truth #6]

But his confidence is great, and unlike Poku he has shown the ability to play a complementary role. His lack of separation will cause him a difficult adjustment but if he plays his Alabama role (on the Spurs, in the beginning) then I think he can learn on the job. He probably should be in the G league but Pop will probably not do that and fall in love with him, so to speak. It will be interesting.

[John B]

But his confidence is great, and unlike Poku he has shown the ability to play a complementary role. His lack of separation will cause him a difficult adjustment but if he plays his Alabama role (on the Spurs, in the beginning) then I think he can learn on the job. He probably should be in the G league but Pop will probably not do that and fall in love with him, so to speak. It will be interesting.

He needs to be in Austin to get regular minutes and working on his craft, instead of riding the bench with the big club

[Fireball]

Doubt he will sniff one minute in the NBA this season ...

[Mr. Body]

Primo does not pass the eye test. He doesn’t look athletic enough to be a game changer in the NBA. He looks like someone who has the chance to be a better shooting Kyle Anderson.

Plenty of players don't have exceptional athleticism in the NBA. A guy like Chris Paul doesn't. Booker doesn't really, either. It's about learning to create space and use your other skills.

[exstatic]

Doubt he will sniff one minute in the NBA this season ...

Every rookie gets some time with the big club, usually a dozen or so games at the end of the year, after the gleague season ends in March.

DJ 38 games
DW 17 games
LW4.17 games
KJ 17 games
Sam 3 games
Vas 62 games

[The Truth #6]

I don’t think he should be expected to get big minutes this year, but Pop loves confident players who have gotten over themselves, and that seems to fit Primo perfectly. So, I am prepared for anything with Primo is all I’m saying. Now, there are plenty of players ahead of him in line, so yeah, logically he shouldn’t play ahead of those with more experience.

[Larry O]

Josue Primo, eventually grew on me, too, once I began to hear information about the potentials that he has as being a good to great NBA player in his career. After watching him play in the Summer League, for an 18 year old, the potential is definitely there! For me, I saw some flashes of "Kobe-liteness" in him. I'm not saying that he will be the next Kobe or anything, but perhaps he has the next potential to be similar to the person he idolizes, & that's Kevin Booker, whom he grew up watching. Here is an excerpt from Duane Rankin of the Arizona Republic, who covers the Phoenix Suns:

"The one player that I'm really looking forward to playing against is Devin Booker." San Antonio Spurs rookie Joshua Primo. #Suns (https://twitter.com/hashtag/Suns?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw) #Spurs (https://twitter.com/hashtag/Spurs?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw) #NBASummerLeague (https://twitter.com/hashtag/NBASummerLeague?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw) pic.twitter.com/qQv5kaUarG (https://t.co/qQv5kaUarG)

— Duane Rankin (@DuaneRankin) August 12, 2021 (https://twitter.com/DuaneRankin/status/1425646306307936256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw)"The one player that I'm really looking forward to playing against is Devin Booker," said Primo during a ESPN interview in which several rookies were asked who they wanted to face this season."He's someone that I look up to as a player. Someone who I feel like embodies the way I want to play. Just being able to compete against someone like him would be a great opportunity."

So, who did Devin Booker idolize growing up? ….The Black Mamba... Here is an excerpt from Joshua Miranda of Sports Manor, who wrote about the Devin Booker & Kobe comparisons:



Devin Booker idolizes Kobe Bryant. He has a tattoo of an iconic line Kobe told Booker. He has all the Kobe gear and you can really see his affinity to the Black Mamba. Not only that but he has also a offensive game that is similar to an older Kobe Bryant. A Kobe which Booker grew up watching.
But when Devin Booker heard all the comparisons between him and Kobe he said, "I should never be compared to Kobe Bryant.”
Devin says this obviously because he knows he has not achieved the things Kobe has, especially at this point in his career. But in general they aren’t comparable.
Booker possesses the offensive game of Kobe but an older one. However, he does not have the athletic ability of a young Afro-Be. Kobe was a dunk champion and Zach Lavine (https://www.sportsmanor.com/tag/zach-lavine/) is more similar to that version of Kobe. Bryant was also a 12 time All-defensive player. Booker is not as good as a defender as KB was, at least right now.

So, to say all of this, for Primo, the sky is the limit! He has Booker to look up to; play against & even the opportunity, down the road, to work out with during the off season. The opportunity is there for him to either match or surpass Booker in every facet of the game, but hopefully, he will establish his own identity as an individual player. I'm growing more exited about this kid, with hopes that he will turn into a good, if not great NBA player, either as a Spur or wherever his NBA career takes him. GSG!!!

[Sugus]

I don’t think he should be expected to get big minutes this year, but Pop loves confident players who have gotten over themselves, and that seems to fit Primo perfectly. So, I am prepared for anything with Primo is all I’m saying. Now, there are plenty of players ahead of him in line, so yeah, logically he shouldn’t play ahead of those with more experience.

I think most posters here expecting a worst-case scenario regarding Primo's role and playtime this season will be (un)pleasantly surprised. Far too many clichés have flown here about the team and FO as if they're set in stone, only to be easily broken in time. I see him getting somewhat consistent bench minutes after the All-Star break, especially if he overperforms in the GL, as I think he will.

[R. DeMurre]

Pokusevski is possibly the worst shooter I've ever seen. Absolutely awful, and in a hilarious, spectacular, you've-got-to-see-this kind of way. Horrible form, just slinging it vainly toward the iron, clanging it off backboard and whatever came in the way. Just superbly shitty as a shooter. And here's the kicker -- he never stopped. Would not stop shooting. The guy has supreme confidence and no capability as a shooter whatsoever. It's truly impressive, and then the coaching staff and GM seem to simply let him do it, like a Make a Wish Foundation kid.


So are you saying Sam Presti doesn't have an eye for talent? Poku improved as the season went on, which is what OKC wanted. It's better than having your prospects sit on the bench, getting no court time, while watching a poorly constructed team limp into the 10th spot. Shooting is his weakness, so obviously if he improves there, it'll pair nicely with his other already established skills.

[Mr. Body]

So are you saying Sam Presti doesn't have an eye for talent? Poku improved as the season went on, which is what OKC wanted. It's better than having your prospects sit on the bench, getting no court time, while watching a poorly constructed team limp into the 10th spot. Shooting is his weakness, so obviously if he improves there, it'll pair nicely with his other already established skills.

What I said is that Pokushevski is the worst fucking shooter I've seen in my life and it was made worse by absolutely no sense of coaching whatsoever. He was given no leash or instruction or anything to stop him from flinging atrocious shot after atrocious shot somewhere in the direction of the rim. It was absurd and might hurt him down the line.

I wouldn't say "shooting is his weakness." I'd say his shooting is worse than a huge vat of festering donkey shit with dead children floating in it.

[Mr. Body]

So are you saying Sam Presti doesn't have an eye for talent? Poku improved as the season went on, which is what OKC wanted. It's better than having your prospects sit on the bench, getting no court time, while watching a poorly constructed team limp into the 10th spot. Shooting is his weakness, so obviously if he improves there, it'll pair nicely with his other already established skills.

What I said is that Pokushevski is the worst fucking shooter I've seen in my life and it was made worse by absolutely no sense of coaching whatsoever. He was given no leash or instruction or anything to stop him from flinging atrocious shot after atrocious shot somewhere in the direction of the rim. It was absurd and might hurt him down the line.

I wouldn't say "shooting is his weakness." I'd say his shooting is worse than a huge vat of festering donkey shit with dead children floating in it.

[R. DeMurre]

What I said is that Pokushevski is the worst fucking shooter I've seen in my life and it was made worse by absolutely no sense of coaching whatsoever. He was given no leash or instruction or anything to stop him from flinging atrocious shot after atrocious shot somewhere in the direction of the rim. It was absurd and might hurt him down the line.

I wouldn't say "shooting is his weakness." I'd say his shooting is worse than a huge vat of festering donkey shit with dead children floating in it.

His 3pt% improved as the year progressed, so I don't know if your assessment holds water, though it is an admittedly entertaining & dramatic take on water, with donkey shit & dead children in there :lol:

January: 23.1%
March: 29.1%
April: 30.1%
May: 43.5%

His TS% improved as the year went on too, so I'd hazard the guess that him having the green light to keep shooting didn't impede his progress at all.

[playblair]

if u want a laugh go to the first page & look at all the turrible primo takes........primo looks like a star in first game.......

[ducks]

Welp… wanted Sengun.

Why

[ismael-robert]

Spurstalk experts getting �� on again

[raybies]

if u want a laugh go to the first page & look at all the turrible primo takes........primo looks like a star in first game.......

this thread gonna be golden soon LUL

the usual suspects are always there with their usual shit takes...

[Ed Helicopter Jones]

I was a Primo skeptic, I’ll admit it. He’s already proving me wrong. I hope he continues to make me eat my words. Looks great so far.

[raybies]

I was a Primo skeptic, I’ll admit it. He’s already proving me wrong. I hope he continues to make me eat my words. Looks great so far.
respect man...

better to be bold then play both sides of the fence like some of these trash cans who talk the game...

I have no problem eating crow if I'm wrong.

[playbonner15]

Primo might be the second coming of Kobe Bryan. Josh 'Mamba Prime' Primo pasta aldente

[Rocalcio]

On one side we can blame the guys who saw him as a bad pick during the draft night. But on the other side it could also be a mistake to see him like a future superstar after just one preseason game…

[raybies]

On one side we can blame the guys who saw him as a bad pick during the draft night. But on the other side it could also be a mistake to see him like a future superstar after just one preseason game…

Well it's a fun pass time here for some to make bold claims and then have fun with it later... Win win scenario if you ask me but that may be a glass half full/empty type of thing.

[BillMc]

Kid's eighteen. Even if they weren't Utah's best players, their NBA players, so its impressive. Given Primo supposed to be a good character kid, I doubt (hope) that he keeps his head down and works as DJ and others say.

[Mr. Body]

That shot is gorgeous, whatever else you want to say, gorgeous arc and soft as hell.

[raybies]

Kid's eighteen. Even if they weren't Utah's best players, their NBA players, so its impressive. Given Primo supposed to be a good character kid, I doubt (hope) that he keeps his head down and works as DJ and others say.

I think the nature of this outing was a testament to his elite maturity relative to his age. Even DJ mentioned he didn't seem phased... A kid like that at this age speaks volumes of his potential not to mention his skill set at this time... Just very promising. It's gonna be fun watching this one for sure.

[J_Paco]

For a kid that saw a small role and few touches in college, Primo has a lot of advanced moves, a smooth shooting stroke and potential to be a good defender.

I didn't like the pick in the moment (who did?), but he showed glimpses in Summer League of why he quietly vaulted up draft boards. His age just adds to that because he's so young and you get him in your development program a "year early."

I doubt he'll be tearing up the league for 17 points every night and will have bad moments or even be sent down to the G-League for more seasoning, but the raw potential and early skillset is present.

I definitely hope he proves the doubters on here and elsewhere completely wrong too.

[raybies]

For a kid that saw a small role and few touches in college, Primo has a lot of advanced moves, a smooth shooting stroke and potential to be a good defender.

I didn't like the pick in the moment (who did?), but he showed glimpses in Summer League of why he quietly vaulted up draft boards. His age just adds to that because he's so young and you get him in your development program a "year early."

I doubt he'll be tearing up the league for 17 points every night and will have bad moments or even be sent down to the G-League for more seasoning, but the raw potential and early skillset is present.

I definitely hope he proves the doubters on here and elsewhere completely wrong too.

I fancy a fun conspiracy theory but I wouldn't be surprised if he was home grown so to speak... I don't see how a gem like this stays under wraps for this long with that kind of talent, skill, character etc.

[Mr. Body]

As mentioned, Primo really should be entering college this year. He went a year early.

[Chinook]

Am I the only one who thinks Primo looks ... big? Like I keep hearing that he's not really 6-6 or that he's not physically ready to play in the NBA, but he looks like he's going to be a small-forward once he fills out. If he grows even two inches, I think he's going to be a combo-forward if not an everyday PF. It's not even a wingspan thing with him, as he's basically average in that regard. He just looks like he's going to be a load physically in a few years. That he's running the point now will only help him once he becomes a front-court player.

[Trill Clinton]

Am I the only one who thinks Primo looks ... big? Like I keep hearing that he's not really 6-6 or that he's not physically ready to play in the NBA, but he looks like he's going to be a small-forward once he fills out. If he grows even two inches, I think he's going to be a combo-forward if not an everyday PF. It's not even a wingspan thing with him, as he's basically average in that regard. He just looks like he's going to be a load physically in a few years. That he's running the point now will only help him once he becomes a front-court player.

Yea his legs are thick

[SAGirl]

I think people saying he’s not ready to play in the NBA are saying it to preemptively make an excuse for Pop when he starts the inexplicable benching.

He seems the most ready of all rookies in recent years. He’s going to get stronger and bigger naturally over the years, but that’s not to say he isn’t already strong enough.

[NASpurs]

I guess this is as good as it's going to get as far as highlights are concerned for him

1445432685674041352

[ceperez]

I guess this is as good as it's going to get as far as highlights are concerned for him

1445432685674041352

Nice! I like the fact that he's bigger than his defender!

[raybies]

I guess this is as good as it's going to get as far as highlights are concerned for him

1445432685674041352

what ppl don't understand is that only the top tier of players can make some of these shots he is making and then only an elite few can make it look that polished and easy, speaking specifically with those finger rolls etc. He is highly skilled and talented. The more remarkable thing though is his character in cahoots with that potential. You kind of expect this kind of talent and/or skill in the lottery just not usually at the bottom fourth...

I don't know how ppl can't see this.. this is not normal. preseason or not. he has no weakness as far as I'm concerned. He's a playmaker at both sides of the ball, he can create his shot and dish, he can handle the ball and play off it, and he may be a work horse scorer and closer or cleaner I believe the term is. Sniffer or not, it's not about numbers to me but seeing what he can do. For example it's easy to see the rest of our players limitations. He's just the best prospect we have had in a long long time. Can't believe he fell...

the kid is just so graceful and polished for his age man...

[SAGirl]

what ppl don't understand is that only the top tier of players can make some of these shots he is making and then only an elite few can make it look that polished and easy, speaking specifically with those finger rolls etc. He is highly skilled and talented. The more remarkable thing though is his character in cahoots with that potential. You kind of expect this kind of talent and/or skill in the lottery just not usually at the bottom fourth...

I don't know how ppl can't see this.. this is not normal. preseason or not. he has no weakness as far as I'm concerned. He's a playmaker at both sides of the ball, he can create his shot and dish, he can handle the ball and play off it, and he may be a work horse scorer and closer or cleaner I believe the term is. Sniffer or not, it's not about numbers to me but seeing what he can do. For example it's easy to see the rest of our players limitations. He's just the best prospect we have had in a long long time. Can't believe he fell...

the kid is just so graceful and polished for his age man...
That’s the mark of true talent. When one watches the truly talented guys in the league they make the game look easy, to the point where one wonders why doesn’t every other guard play like this or that, etc.

For example, with guys like Lonnie, one can see he’s talented, physically gifted, a specimen. He could do so much, but rim finishes, decision making just isn’t all there. Well if it were easy he would have already figured it out. Primo is figuring it out quicker. He already took control of the situation unafraid. He didn’t need plays run for him or for Pop to call his number or nobody to tell him to go get it. He goes and does it, and makes it look easy. At his age that’s significant.

That’s not to say he won’t have off nights or games where he’s struggling with some defensive scheme or a particularly pesky defender. The league is full of good players and some will test him, that’s why one would want him to play regular minutes and to start if he earns it, to give him the opportunity of getting tested, of playing against the best, learning from the bad nights and becoming even better, that’s what greats do. And if he doesn’t hit a rookie wall then you have someone really special for now and the future.

[Drom John]

Nice! I like the fact that he's bigger than his defender!

If I am scoring correctly, four of Primo's seven shots were against centers (Azubuike 2, Bolden, Whiteside), one forward (O'Neale) one swing g/f (Oni), one guard (Teague).
Nice Samanic pick.

[raybies]

That’s the mark of true talent. When one watches the truly talented guys in the league they make the game look easy, to the point where one wonders why doesn’t every other guard play like this or that, etc.

For example, with guys like Lonnie, one can see he’s talented, physically gifted, a specimen. He could do so much, but rim finishes, decision making just isn’t all there. Well if it were easy he would have already figured it out. Primo is figuring it out quicker. He already took control of the situation unafraid. He didn’t need plays run for him or for Pop to call his number or nobody to tell him to go get it. He goes and does it, and makes it look easy. At his age that’s significant.

That’s not to say he won’t have off nights or games where he’s struggling with some defensive scheme or a particularly pesky defender. The league is full of good players and some will test him, that’s why one would want him to play regular minutes and to start if he earns it, to give him the opportunity of getting tested, of playing against the best, learning from the bad nights and becoming even better, that’s what greats do. And if he doesn’t hit a rookie wall then you have someone really special for now and the future.
https://media.giphy.com/media/10Jpr9KSaXLchW/giphy-downsized-large.gif

[Russ]

To put the whole 2021 draft in perspective, it sucked.

There were were no great options at 12.

I liked Bouknight but he went 11 (and hasn't really sizzled so far anyway).

I liked Kai Jones (who was available at 12) but he hasn't hit. At least not yet.

Sengun looked (and looks) like a high-end role player. Not worth 12.

It was a bad draft and the Spurs made a bad pick.

But usually bad picks are just bad picks -- they don't result in a cascade of legal issues.

[DPG21920]

Always good re-reading these comments and where peoples heads were at..

[timvp]

OMG :pctoss

Still appropriate, tbh . . .

[rankingtear]

2021 was really rough after Franz tbh. Duarte at 24 was far away the best on ball guy and nobody was really close. I guess the play in that draft is just get an older high quality role player. Trey Murphy or Herb Jones for wings. Grimes or Ayo for guards. 3 of those guys are mocked in the second round and Trey was a very late riser.

[offset formation]

I guess this is as good as it's going to get as far as highlights are concerned for him

1445432685674041352

You actually nailed this. Btw, I got clowned for pointing out how much he was being a ball handler last year and how it was already evident they were slotting him to be a PG even then. Re-watching that clip makes it clear they always saw him as the PG even when we had Dejounte and White and Tre.

I'll never get that pick.

[DPG21920]

Still appropriate, tbh . . .

Thank goodness the FO did a 180 overall. Re-reading some of these threads last few years had me feeling like a fortune teller - but with doom. Thankfully, SA FO has done a lot of good, picked a direction and executed well in terms of asset management and setting themselves up all around.

This one never made sense, same with Doug signing, but they have done well overall despite that lately.