Spurs sign Charles Bassey to a 2-way contract

[RC_Drunkford]

Don’t know anything about him, but I hope they are dumping Hall and not Barlow

[BG_Spurs_Fan]

Yeah it'd be strange if they're dumping Barlow, he's shown a lot of promise.

Bassey is a good prospect for a 2-way though.

[John B]

No please not Barlow.

[John B]

6’11 G-League All-Defensive, All-Rookie, All-NBA 2nd team… hmmm :wakeup

[Leetonidas]

There was some poster here who was high on Bassey. Hope he pans out

[emanueldavidginobili]

1584598743156162560

Had a lot of interest around the league.

[Darius Bieber]

I wonder who will be cut.. Has to be Hall right?

[John B]

Bassey is 6’11 Center though. Hall 6’7 SF vs Barlow 6’9 Center. Or does it matter? Boy I like Barlow though

[rjv]

the kid went to St. Anthony's (i believe this was the beginning of the recruiting scandal over at that program).

[emanueldavidginobili]

Its official Hall has been waived.

[Dejounte]

We needed a big center badly as Collins and Dieng are too weak to stand their ground against the likes of bigger centers in the league.

[Chinook]

Good to see they weren't married to Hall. He just didn't show anything. I also like that Barlow can develop as a PF now that C is well and truly stocked. He has the mobility and floor game to have a chance there.

[mo7888]

We needed a big center badly as Collins and Dieng are too weak to stand their ground against the likes of bigger centers in the league.

Is it me or does it kinda feel like Collins could be moved before the deadline?

[Chinook]

We needed a big center badly as Collins and Dieng are too weak to stand their ground against the likes of bigger centers in the league.

I think Dieng is fine. He's a backup but he's also a smart vet who can stay in his spot. I wasn't worried about with against Embiid at all, though I'm not penciling him in as a Jokic stopper. Collins needs a fair bit of work on his technique though. If Bassey can do a better job, play him. But I think the signing was about 2023 more than this year.

[Dejounte]

Is it me or does it kinda feel like Collins could be moved before the deadline?

I hope he does. I’m kind of annoyed by his selfish play. I think he’ll have more bad games than good ones.

[exstatic]

So, in today’s NBA, we have 3 roster centers and one 2 way center. 4 out of 17 spots. Maybe 5 if they keep Hall. Doesn’t seem like the right roster mix.

[John B]

Its official Hall has been waived.

Then I’m liking this signing a lot. A 6’11 defensive big and only 20 yrs old. Spurs are stacked!!

[John B]

I hope he does. I’m kind of annoyed by his selfish play. I think he’ll have more bad games than good ones.

I rather him taking aggressive instead of deferring like Lonnie and Derrick. We need those alpha guys. Zollins is still finding his way back, and it’s rebuilding. So just let them fly!

[John B]

https://youtu.be/4K1Sfx-ecfo

[timvp]

Nice :tu

I didn't see anything from Hall to suggest he's an NBA player. (Tbh, I didn't see anything to suggest he should have even been invited to training camp ... much less get a two-way contract.)

Giving guaranteed money and a roster spot to Bassey would have been a little bit questionable but I love him as a two-way project. There are very real avenues to him becoming a quality backup center in the NBA. If either Bassey or Barlow pan out, that's a big win.

[RC_Drunkford]

So, in today’s NBA, we have 3 roster centers and one 2 way center. 4 out of 17 spots. Maybe 5 if they keep Hall. Doesn’t seem like the right roster mix.

Spurs are just taking as many chances as possible at promising players/prospects and seeing who sticks. I like it.

[wildbill2u]

Good to see they weren't married to Hall. He just didn't show anything. I also like that Barlow can develop as a PF now that C is well and truly stocked. He has the mobility and floor game to have a chance there.
I like Barlow at PF too.

[John B]

I think this gives Barlow some healthy competition also.

[jjspur]

Finally a smart move even if its a small move. Signing Hall to a 2 way was a bit puzzling, but this move actually makes sense. Way to go front office.

[heyheymymy]

Smart move to swap out Hall for imo a more intriguing piece.

Also seems like more Poeltl insurance.

[td4mvp2k]

Spurs are just taking as many chances as possible at promising players/prospects and seeing who sticks. I like it.

[TD 21]

Solid signing. First vertical spacer since '17 Dedmon, if given opportunity he has a legit chance to become a rotation backup.

Strong individual metrics for the 76ers last season (granted, typical for vertical spacing C's and small sample size).


Is it me or does it kinda feel like Collins could be moved before the deadline?

Maybe, but probably more so Poeltl insurance (although I always figured there'd be some sort of salary dump (Plumlee, Birch) or project (Jones) big coming back), since he's a rim runner.

[scott]

There was some poster here who was high on Bassey. Hope he pans out

That's me! I am largely biased as he spent his HS freshman year at my alma mater. But I think he's got potential as an Andre Drummond-type (not to that caliber, but the type of player). And if we trade Jak, we are going to need some size to eat up minutes.

[Dejounte]

Didn’t follow this guy at all but seems like he killed it in college… advanced metrics-wise, at least. Wonder why he didn’t go lottery. His stats were that good.

[PhantomDashCam]

Wow could be legitimately the most exciting G-League team the Spurs have ever assembled.
Wesley, Branham, Barlowe, Alize Johnson and Bassey? All guys have legitimate shots to have fruitful NBA careers (even if long term it isn’t with the Spurs).

I’ve been critical of Brian W before, but he deserves a lot of credit for pivoting where he has lately ie. selling high on DJ and Derrick, and identifying talents that weren’t necessarily panning out here or at other destinations and making moves accordingly. :tu

[Cabrito]

Better use of a two way contract than bringing back Joe Wieskamp. It’s too bad about Joe but I am all for developing a big man. Average swing players are a dime a dozen.

[scott]

Didn’t follow this guy at all but seems like he killed it in college… advanced metrics-wise, at least. Wonder why he didn’t go lottery. His stats were that good.

He's not a shooter, and he's not the athletic freak that Duren is. I thought he would have been at least a first rounder, and I was really ticked when we drafted Weezy over him, but the story I got is that guys like him just aren't valued in today's NBA.

With that said, guys like Andre Drummond definitely have a place, and I see Bassey as that type of player.

He was the next big thing his Freshman year in HS, winning MVP of the Jordan Brand Classic. I think he put up 20pts 17 reb 6 blks/gm as a Freshman. Our high school has NEVER been a basketball powerhouse or even anything remotely competitive outside of the catholic school circuit, so it was a big deal when he rolled in with a lot of other big recruits. It was obvious there was something fishy going on and they got busted.

I'm pumped about this, as we blow out the T-Wolves and watch the tank go up in flames :lol

[jhfenton]

"Bassey’s representation had discussions with 22 NBA teams, which included the Detroit Pistons, Cleveland Cavaliers, Phoenix Suns and Toronto Raptors, after he was waived by the Sixers on Oct. 13. With roster spots already taken, most franchises wanted Bassey to sign an Exhibit-10 deal, which allows NBA teams to offer players a bonus for playing with their G League affiliates. The expectation was he would play for their G League affiliate this season and sign to the 15-man roster next season."

“It’s a young organization,” Bassey said of joining a squad with five 19-year-olds on the roster. “They are rebuilding. I feel like I’m going to have a great chance to play in a pretty good organization. And it’s a character organization. Everybody does stuff the same. ... I feel like I’m going to fit right in.”
https://www.inquirer.com/sixers/sixers-charles-bassey-signs-with-spurs-over-cavs-pistons-raptors-suns-20221024.html

[The Truth #6]

I’m not expecting him to ever play for the Spurs, but hopefully he shows something.

[ace3g]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jJLR9MHQyy0&t=11s

[John B]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jJLR9MHQyy0&t=11s

Nice pickup for a defensive big and only 22 yrs old.

[scott]

Looks like he has developed a three point shot! I realize this is just highlights of garbage time, but he looked good there! Really hope to see him get some more run.

[exstatic]

OK, I’m sold.

[MI21]

I haven't seen anything to suggest he couldn't be a solid backup relatively soon.

[Mr. Body]

A good, physical player.

[wildbill2u]

After watching the Austin Spurs play, I predicted Bassey could help the squad right away if they brought him down from Austin. He is going to be a very strong defender and rebounder and can handle the ball on the PNR for some easy baskets at the rim. We haven't had a athletic big with a physical game like this since I don't know when. Give him more minutes.

[CGD]

Maybe something salvageable from the 2021 draft yet.

[Dejounte]

He seems like one of those rare Spurs players we’ve had where they dominated g league and was too good to be kept there. I wonder if he stays with the main team from this point forward. Probably not since he’s still on a two way.

[XDT76]

After watching the Austin Spurs play, I predicted Bassey could help the squad right away if they brought him down from Austin. He is going to be a very strong defender and rebounder and can handle the ball on the PNR for some easy baskets at the rim. We haven't had a athletic big with a physical game like this since I don't know when. Give him more minutes.

Probably DR50 and to a lesser extent Blair

[XDT76]

He seems like one of those rare Spurs players we’ve had where they dominated g league and was too good to be kept there. I wonder if he stays with the main team from this point forward. Probably not since he’s still on a two way.

If he proves himself enough he could be converted after a mid season trade or waive Hill, however at this moment we need a PG more than a big man.

[exstatic]

I haven't seen anything to suggest he couldn't be a solid backup relatively soon.

I think they’ve reinstated the limit on 2ways that was relaxed the last two seasons. The original rule was 45 days, whether they are game days, travel days, practice days, or off days.

As an aside, he doesn’t appear on the top ten of any of the combine tests. Not vert, shuttle sprint, box agility. The only places his name appeared was height, and wingspan, and neither was overwhelming. He’s 6’9.25 (no shoes) and his wingspan is 7’3”, slightly less than +6 length. Easy to see why he slipped into the second round. Teams love the combine performers.

[RC_Drunkford]

He's good at boxing out, good roll man, strong rebounder, shotblocker, got a 3-point shot, lob threat. I don't see any downsides. Give the guy more minutes. If you ask me he can probably give you 80% of what Poeltl gives you right away

[Chinook]

I think they’ve reinstated the limit on 2ways that was relaxed the last two seasons. The original rule was 45 days, whether they are game days, travel days, practice days, or off days.

As far as I can actually tell, this isn't true. What happened is the league amended the rules for two-way guys a few years ago to set up a 50-game limit and then suspended that rule because of COVID. So teams were allowed to basically keep their two-way players all year with no restrictions. Now, the NBA rolled back that suspension and restored the amended rules. So there's not a "days" measurement but a "games active" measurement.

Someone else can go through the trouble of imbedding this tweet from Woj if they want: https://twitter.com/wojespn/status/1540719635741302785?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5 Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1540719635741302785%7Ctwgr% 5Ec8d418fa7ed8330989a6485f4d76486680ce98b2%7Ctwcon %5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fdunkingwithwolves.com%2F2022 %2F06%2F25%2Fnba-finalizes-compensation-for-two-way-players-in-2022-23%2F

The CBA FAQ also has the 50-game limit, and it didn't suggest that was a temporary standard either, though there is a reference to the old 45-day limit you were talking about.

[exstatic]

He's good at boxing out, good roll man, strong rebounder, shotblocker, got a 3-point shot, lob threat. I don't see any downsides. Give the guy more minutes. If you ask me he can probably give you 80% of what Poeltl gives you right away

The new terminology is processor speed. In English, he knows where to be on the court and when to be there. Vassell is another one like that. They know how to move in space on both ends of a basketball court to get done what needs to be done, whether it’s finishing a scoring opportunity, getting a steal, or blocking a shot. There was a play last night where CB contested a 3 pointer AND got a very short rebound in the restricted area. I had to check the number on the rebounder to verify it. 28.

[RC_Drunkford]

he was also able to stay in front of Bones Hyland. Might be the only Spur who can do that :lol

[Atl Spur]

Nice find! He has some tools for sure.

[lefty]

Would have averaged 25 & 10 in the 1990s

[exstatic]

Would have averaged 25 & 10 in the 1990s

He would have been a PF, tho. 6’9.25” would have been too short to play center for a non elite NBA athlete in the 90s.

[SpurSpike]

Can we drop Hall and sign this guy to an NBA contract?

[exstatic]

Can we drop Hall and sign this guy to an NBA contract?

Why? He’s under team control right now.

I think eventually, Hall will be dropped, and that spot will be used for player evaluations. At the end of the year, they’ll probably sign Bassey like they did Weezy late year. No hurry.

[wildbill2u]

Bassey's measurements are very different in some sites. From 6'9 to 6'11". He looked a couple of inches taller than Barlow (6'9 or 6'10)the other night and my God is he strong looking at 230lbs or what? His rebounding is relentless and physical while retaining agility.

Offensively, I was also very impressed by his work in the PNR. He knows how to get loose and wants the ball for a dunk or layup. Good hands. If our guards will find him, he can score. His 3 pt shot the other night was icing on the cake. I doubt it is a high percentage shot in his repertoire, but the willingness to take it is a good sign.

I think his offensive potential is higher than Jakob. Will be looking forward to all his appearances on loan from Ausin.

[John B]

Sir Charles Bassey, the new darling of ST. Just days ago they were happy with Jak who finally found a defensive pf beside him. What do you say my friend Sugus? :lol

[ambchang]

Would have averaged 25 & 10 in the 1990s

In the D-league.

[scott]

Been waiting for Bassey to wear a Spurs uni since his freshman year in HS. Glad to see him starting off on the right foot.

He is far and away a better prospect than Jock ever was, and I'm glad he's with us.

Since we aren't making the playoffs anyway, I guess the two-way scenario isn't a problem... but what is the best way for the Spurs to keep him under control in the near term? At the end of the season are two-ways UFAs or do we have exclusive rights to them? I'm a Bassey Stan, but I want to see this guy be a part of our team going forward.

Would it be in our interest to waive Hall and get Bassey on a real contract simply as an act of good faith? It's a significant $ diff to be on a two-way, don't want to lose this guy in the offseason because we didn't want to pay him a better wage.

[Mr. Body]

Been waiting for Bassey to wear a Spurs uni since his freshman year in HS. Glad to see him starting off on the right foot.

He is far and away a better prospect than Jock ever was, and I'm glad he's with us.

Since we aren't making the playoffs anyway, I guess the two-way scenario isn't a problem... but what is the best way for the Spurs to keep him under control in the near term? At the end of the season are two-ways UFAs or do we have exclusive rights to them? I'm a Bassey Stan, but I want to see this guy be a part of our team going forward.

Would it be in our interest to waive Hall and get Bassey on a real contract simply as an act of good faith? It's a significant $ diff to be on a two-way, don't want to lose this guy in the offseason because we didn't want to pay him a better wage.

Um, why are you going after Jock? Landale is a highly skilled, very accomplished player. Do you know what you're talking about?

[scott]

Um, why are you going after Jock? Landale is a highly skilled, very accomplished player. Do you know what you're talking about?

"Going after"?

I'm merely pointing out that Bassey represents a better long term prospect than Jock did. Some were upset we gave up Jock in the DJM deal, my point is that we have a C prospect on the roster with better long-term upside. It's not a knock on Jock as much as it is excitement about Bassey's prospects. You're also quite welcome to have a different opinion.

[tonight...you]

"Going after"?

I'm merely pointing out that Bassey represents a better long term prospect than Jock did. Some were upset we gave up Jock in the DJM deal, my point is that we have a C prospect on the roster with better long-term upside. It's not a knock on Jock as much as it is excitement about Bassey's prospects. You're also quite welcome to have a different opinion.
We don't know enough yet.
You may be right, you may be crazy, but it just may be a lunatic we're looking for.

[Mr. Body]

"Going after"?

I'm merely pointing out that Bassey represents a better long term prospect than Jock did. Some were upset we gave up Jock in the DJM deal, my point is that we have a C prospect on the roster with better long-term upside. It's not a knock on Jock as much as it is excitement about Bassey's prospects. You're also quite welcome to have a different opinion.

I still don't get it. Landale is going to be in the league for as long as he wants. He's terrific with the Suns right now.

[slick'81]

You got the juice now massey! No more zollins

[Atl Spur]

You got the juice now massey! No more zollins

Wow…….never go full retard��

[exstatic]

Bassey's measurements are very different in some sites. From 6'9 to 6'11". He looked a couple of inches taller than Barlow (6'9 or 6'10)the other night and my God is he strong looking at 230lbs or what? His rebounding is relentless and physical while retaining agility.

Offensively, I was also very impressed by his work in the PNR. He knows how to get loose and wants the ball for a dunk or layup. Good hands. If our guards will find him, he can score. His 3 pt shot the other night was icing on the cake. I doubt it is a high percentage shot in his repertoire, but the willingness to take it is a good sign.

I think his offensive potential is higher than Jakob. Will be looking forward to all his appearances on loan from Ausin.

The official, no shoes combine measurements were 6’9.25” and 7’3” wingspan. It’s funny how different perceptions are. I thought he barely looked taller than KBD, which is what set me off looking for the combine measurements/numbers.

[wildbill2u]

The official, no shoes combine measurements were 6’9.25” and 7’3” wingspan. It’s funny how different perceptions are. I thought he barely looked taller than KBD, which is what set me off looking for the combine measurements/numbers.

He has been around since the 2021 draft combine so I wonder if he might have grown an inch and then put on shoes with lifts to get to his rated 6'11' rating now on Basketball reference.:lmao Whatever his current height, he has an opportunity to play more with the big club now that Collins is injured. I think the Spurs will slot him behind Jakob and ahead of Dieng just to see what they have in him. If Jones recognizes his PNR talent I think he can score in double figures in a lot of games and if he rebounds as well as his play indicates we could have a double/double big in play. (OK, ok, I'm just being a fan boy on hopium, but I do like what I've seen :wakeup)

[SpurSpike]

Spurs have been missing a big bruiser for a while. It was a fresh of breath air seeing someone fight for rebounds and use their bulk to displace the opponent.

[RC_Drunkford]

I really don't understand the discussion of him being 2 inches taller or smaller. He's tall and long enough to block shots in the current NBA, that's all that matters

[rjv]

I really don't understand the discussion of him being 2 inches taller or smaller. He's tall and long enough to block shots in the current NBA, that's all that matters

yeah, it's like "well, you're doing all the things we'd like a big to do but technically you're not the required height so we're gonna pass".

[BackHome]

You mean like Devontae Cacok - That dude was always getting double points with double digit rebounds but he was 6’8 Center.

[playbonner15]

If Jones recognizes his PNR talent I think he can score in double figures in a lot of games and if he rebounds as well as his play indicates we could have a double/double big in play. (OK, ok, I'm just being a fan boy on hopium, but I do like what I've seen :wakeup)

Emphasis on if :lol

[exstatic]

yeah, it's like "well, you're doing all the things we'd like a big to do but technically you're not the required height so we're gonna pass".

A lot it teams did that. He appeared to be an undersized traditional center with non-elite athleticism. Kid can play, and he’s always in the right place.

[Atl Spur]

How tall is looney in GS? Not a big deal in the right system.

[absoloot66]

We don't know enough yet.
You may be right, you may be crazy, but it just may be a lunatic we're looking for.

I like what you did there:bobo

[Ocotillo]

https://twitter.com/spurs/status/1591161043216404480

Nice to see Blake Wesley hanging with the fellas(and Bassey)

[wildbill2u]

https://twitter.com/spurs/status/1591161043216404480

Nice to see Blake Wesley hanging with the fellas(and Bassey)

Is that Bassey for real??? Might just be the perspective, but doesn't Bassey look at least as tall as Poertl and even heavier???

[Ocotillo]

I was guessing it is because he is taller than Roby. Growth plates baby!

[Chomag]

Bassey just might be the dark horse this season

[Sugus]

Sir Charles Bassey, the new darling of ST. Just days ago they were happy with Jak who finally found a defensive pf beside him. What do you say my friend Sugus? :lol

If ST thinks he's good, then oh boy, get him away from the team! :P

Jokes aside, I'm watching him play for the first time tonight. Haven't been able to catch too many games. And funny enough, he popped right off the screen, to the point where I looked up who the hell #28 on the Spurs was. Very, very interesting player. I don't really see him overlapping with Jakob too much (I don't know his measurables but he seems a bit shorter, and less lengthy than Jakob is, and also probably never as good on D). I really like his high-motor play and hustle: there's always a place on the team for players like that.

I also like his very emphatic blocks tbh. He had like, 2 or 3 volleyball-style spikes tonight. That energy is amazing and infectious: tone-setting.

[objective]

He's more enjoyable to watch than Eubanks was, that's for sure

[scott]

If we had drafted Jalen Duran at 9 and he was giving us everything Bassey is right now, how would we be feeling?

I ask this question because while we are all loving what we are seeing out of him... there is some "let's wait and see" out there. I'd argue that while he doesn't have the measurables or athleticism as Duren, his production can match up with what we would have hoped out of him as a lottery pick. Did we essentially pick up a bonus lottery pick for free?

[scott]

So far this season Per36:

Duren: 12.7ppg, 11.2rpg, 0.6apg, 0.4spg, 2.4bpg, .556 fg%, .000 3p%
Bassey: 18.0ppg, 14.7rpg, 2.5apg, 2.5spg, 3.3bpg, .615fg%, .333 3p%

[Dejounte]

This guy is the real deal

when was the last undrafted star

Isaiah Thomas?

Half joking

[Mr. Body]

This guy is the real deal

when was the last undrafted star

Isaiah Thomas?

Half joking

He was drafted at the end of the 2nd by the Sixers.

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/thetyjager/status/1591271548144717825?s=

Bassey will dethrone Poeltl’s starting position next year and become our franchise C tbh

give the guy the max

[mystargtr34]

14 boards and 4 blocks in 18 minutes is ridiculous production. Shitty opponent or not.

[XDT76]

We finally got a guy who can block and rebound

[stephen jackson]

Man this is awesome, he’s the athletic big I’ve always wanted wow

[Mr. Body]

So far this season Per36:

Duren: 12.7ppg, 11.2rpg, 0.6apg, 0.4spg, 2.4bpg, .556 fg%, .000 3p%
Bassey: 18.0ppg, 14.7rpg, 2.5apg, 2.5spg, 3.3bpg, .615fg%, .333 3p%

At first I was resistant to this comparison. Duren is three years younger and the youngest guy in this draft. I like him, from what I've seen. But they are both undersized and might have similar games. I think Bassey might have more vertical pop, to be honest.

[emanueldavidginobili]

https://twitter.com/thetyjager/status/1591271548144717825?s=

Bassey will dethrone Poeltl’s starting position next year and become our franchise C tbh

give the guy the max
Lmao insane stat line in 18 minutes in the NBA on a 2 way contract. Even looked confident shooting the three. Kid just has a knack for the ball.

[SPURt]

The 18 mins is really surprising, he closed the 2nd and 4th quarters. Pop is starting to do some things.

[DPG21920]

Spurs should go ahead and convert this to a team friendly 3 year deal if they can…

[Seventyniner]

Screw 2-way, it needs to be at least 2 years fully guaranteed.

[John B]

If ST thinks he's good, then oh boy, get him away from the team! :P

Jokes aside, I'm watching him play for the first time tonight. Haven't been able to catch too many games. And funny enough, he popped right off the screen, to the point where I looked up who the hell #28 on the Spurs was. Very, very interesting player. I don't really see him overlapping with Jakob too much (I don't know his measurables but he seems a bit shorter, and less lengthy than Jakob is, and also probably never as good on D). I really like his high-motor play and hustle: there's always a place on the team for players like that.

I also like his very emphatic blocks tbh. He had like, 2 or 3 volleyball-style spikes tonight. That energy is amazing and infectious: tone-setting.

Read up his tearjerker story. He was discovered by a basketball coach in the street of Nigeria selling fried chicken in flip flops too small for his 6’1 frame at 12 yrs old. He left soccer and started playing basketball. He was brought here in the states but when his dad died when he was 14, he made the hard decision on staying. Sounds a whole lot like Giannis? Picked up as a two-way player? Man, Pop is a sucker for that kind of story :lol:lol Well I think he’s a good kid and hungry. I’m happy for him.

The thing about him is he fights for positions against Steven Adams the other night, and tonight against Ibaka and Lopez and not shy about it. He has a great feel for the game, rolling hard and always looking for a rebound. He’s nimble enough to cover guards and can shoot from long range. It’s early but I so far I like what I see.

[scott]

Read up his tearjerker story. He was discovered by a basketball coach in the street of Nigeria selling fried chicken in flip flops too small for his 6’1 frame at 12 yrs old. He left soccer and started playing basketball. He was brought here in the states but when his dad died when he was 14, he made the hard decision on staying. Sounds a whole lot like Giannis? Picked up as a two-way player? Man, Pop is a sucker for that kind of story :lol:lol Well I think he’s a good kid and hungry. I’m happy for him.

The thing about him is he fights for positions against Steven Adams the other night, and tonight against Ibaka and Lopez and not shy about it. He has a great feel for the game, rolling hard and always looking for a rebound. He’s nimble enough to cover guards and can shoot from long range. It’s early but I so far I like what I see.

Well, part of his story is also being involved in a massing HS recruiting scandal… but I think he really is a good kid. Let’s get him on a long term deal stat!

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/airlessjordan/status/1591285396474073088?s=

[RC_Drunkford]

the guy averages 6.8 PPG 8 rebounds 2 blocks 0.8 steals and 1.8 assists in 15.5 minutes, That's insane. That's 18.6 boards and 4.6 blocks per 36 minutes

[Sugus]

Read up his tearjerker story. He was discovered by a basketball coach in the street of Nigeria selling fried chicken in flip flops too small for his 6’1 frame at 12 yrs old. He left soccer and started playing basketball. He was brought here in the states but when his dad died when he was 14, he made the hard decision on staying. Sounds a whole lot like Giannis? Picked up as a two-way player? Man, Pop is a sucker for that kind of story :lol:lol Well I think he’s a good kid and hungry. I’m happy for him.

The thing about him is he fights for positions against Steven Adams the other night, and tonight against Ibaka and Lopez and not shy about it. He has a great feel for the game, rolling hard and always looking for a rebound. He’s nimble enough to cover guards and can shoot from long range. It’s early but I so far I like what I see.

No fucking way, what a story! Man, I always like to see these kinds of players succeed in the league. It's all too easy watching them play a game and rooting for them, while forgetting that good performances are literally life-changing for these dudes...

I'm definitely rooting for him. He had a great game last night, and didn't really look like a "one-time-wonder" fluke kinda thing. He really seems to have everything an athletic big would need. Do you know when we can sign him to a full-time deal? I don't want him poached from us due to being on a 2-way...

Though if he keeps up these performances, he'll be too good to be let go of. Pop seemed to give him a lot of leeway last night, and his quotes are all the right things. Spurs and diamonds in the rough, man, incredible!

Lastly: do you think he could credibly play PF if he continued to develop an outside shot? I'm only worried that he's a bit undersized to play C full-time... I'm not married to the idea of Jakob staying here through the rebuild, but also don't know if Bassey is the player to replace him, tbh. I think they could compliment each other's games quite well, especially with Pop's tendencies to play big lineups (like we saw with Jak and Zollins sharing the court).

[Dejounte]

I’m pretty sure Zollins and Jak only shared the court for those one or two games because they were down five players and it was against the TWolves who play two players who pretty much resemble two Centers on the court with their size.

[Dejounte]

Also, by the way Bassey was able to hold his own against the likes of Jovic, McGee, and probably another I’m forgetting (did he match up against Adams?) I think he’ll work out just fine as a full time C with no liabilities whatsoever. What he lacks in height (to be fair, you can’t even tell), he makes up in girth and strength.

[Dejounte]

https://youtu.be/G_5W84i21xw

[Sugus]

1591278832686096384

1591283203775815680

[RC_Drunkford]

Lastly: do you think he could credibly play PF if he continued to develop an outside shot? I'm only worried that he's a bit undersized to play C full-time... I'm not married to the idea of Jakob staying here through the rebuild, but also don't know if Bassey is the player to replace him, tbh. I think they could compliment each other's games quite well, especially with Pop's tendencies to play big lineups (like we saw with Jak and Zollins sharing the court).

I don't think Poeltl/Bassey would work, but Bassey/Zollins could

[John B]

https://youtu.be/G_5W84i21xw

Did he just say Pop was so calm talking to the team? :lol

[Ocotillo]

A lot of posters are laughing at Doc for cutting this guy loose but is that a Doc call or Morey?

[RC_Drunkford]

just made the NBA Top 10 with his chasedown block

[scott]

At first I was resistant to this comparison. Duren is three years younger and the youngest guy in this draft. I like him, from what I've seen. But they are both undersized and might have similar games. I think Bassey might have more vertical pop, to be honest.

I admit it isn't the best comparison. Obviously Duren is significantly younger, is more athletic - but Bassey has a jump shot and 3-point game where Duren doesn't and it appears that Bassey has a high bbiq.

I used the comparison though to say that if we drafted Bassey at 20 or 25 as a college senior... we'd be pretty pumped up about this draft pick and pleased with the multi-year contract we had him under. He's now a second year player, so he has that advantage - but I think he's shown enough to warrant a multi-year contract and to be viewed with a excitement as a solid contributor for us for years.

[scott]

Just one reminder: Charles Bassey isn't some rare diamond we found out of nowhere that required some amazing scouting department to find. He was MVP of the Jordan Brand Classic International Game as a freshman in HS, he averaged 19.4/12.8 as a Junior for Aspire Academy and was a five-star recruit and top center in the country in the 2018 recruiting class, was First Team All-Conference USA as a freshman at WKU, was Conference USA Player of the Year and back-to-back DPOY as a junior. If not for a fracture his sophomore year, he probably goes pro then instead of coming back his junior year.

It's awesome the Spurs picked up this guy, but it's not like he was just some random bum. 21 other teams tried to sign him too, but he came home to SA. If anything, I think him slipping to the 53rd pick was a failure of every NBA team more than than anything else.

[RC_Drunkford]

the fact that this is his 2nd season makes me wonder what his 3rd year leap will look like

[Das Texan]

I assume Spurs will just wait until his big roster eligibility is expiring to convert sign him to a main roster contract and jettison Hall loose (or cut him loose to have him sign the other 2 way at that point).

Cant recall the procedural limitations and all though

[Mr. Body]

Just one reminder: Charles Bassey isn't some rare diamond we found out of nowhere that required some amazing scouting department to find. He was MVP of the Jordan Brand Classic International Game as a freshman in HS, he averaged 19.4/12.8 as a Junior for Aspire Academy and was a five-star recruit and top center in the country in the 2018 recruiting class, was First Team All-Conference USA as a freshman at WKU, was Conference USA Player of the Year and back-to-back DPOY as a junior. If not for a fracture his sophomore year, he probably goes pro then instead of coming back his junior year.

It's awesome the Spurs picked up this guy, but it's not like he was just some random bum. 21 other teams tried to sign him too, but he came home to SA. If anything, I think him slipping to the 53rd pick was a failure of every NBA team more than than anything else.

Great points worth remembering, especially that other teams were trying to sign him beyond showing a lot of stuff already. The Spurs got enormously lucky that he was familiar with SA before, that he seems to not want glitzy locales (cf. WKU), and then seems to have wanted to work under a coach like Popovich.

[TDMVPDPOY]

i say u lock him up and let poodle walk in fa

[jjspur]

Seems to have the right attitude in order to succeed in the NBA. Can you believe the sixers let him go for nothing ?

[Mr. Body]

I admit it isn't the best comparison. Obviously Duren is significantly younger, is more athletic - but Bassey has a jump shot and 3-point game where Duren doesn't and it appears that Bassey has a high bbiq.

I used the comparison though to say that if we drafted Bassey at 20 or 25 as a college senior... we'd be pretty pumped up about this draft pick and pleased with the multi-year contract we had him under. He's now a second year player, so he has that advantage - but I think he's shown enough to warrant a multi-year contract and to be viewed with a excitement as a solid contributor for us for years.

I actually think it's a great comparison. Bassey is undersized for a center, but Duren is also about the same height. I feel like Bassey is actually more athletic, too. For all the talk of taking Duren (or Mark Williams) at #9, we wound up with a player who is already more productive, if a bit older. I agree with your point.

[Mr. Body]

For comparison's sake, here is Bassey vs. Williams vs. Duren as they came into their respective drafts.

https://www.tankathon.com/players/compare?players=charles-bassey--jalen-duren--mark-williams

[cjw]

Assuming he and Poeltl don’t share court but are on court a majority of minutes, few teams can compete with that sort of level of play for 48 minutes at center.

He also makes trading Poeltl more palatable (or letting him walk, and maybe facilitating a S&T)

I know it’s beaten like a dead horses, but on the Primo overdraft debate, but had they picked Segnun, Bassey wouldn’t be on the roster right now. Segnun is playing really well, but there are ways to get production at center while spending less draft capital.

[Chinook]

A lot of posters are laughing at Doc for cutting this guy loose but is that a Doc call or Morey?

Most likely Morey. Morey also cut Robert Covington. Those are a couple of Ls on his resume. Pop cut Green and James Johnson. I don't remember if he has had a bigger miss.

[DAF86]

Most likely Morey. Morey also cut Robert Covington. Those are a couple of Ls on his resume. Pop cut Green and James Johnson. I don't remember if he has had a bigger miss.

Scola thread//

[timvp]

A lot of posters are laughing at Doc for cutting this guy loose but is that a Doc call or Morey?

Not sure anyone on Philly can get too much blame considering no team in the NBA bothered to claim him off waivers even though Bassey only had like $75,000 guaranteed this season. The Spurs signed him to a two-way contract which means it's highly likely that no team was even offering him a regular, non-guaranteed deal.

[BacktoBasics]

i say u lock him up and let poodle walk in fa

I bought a new car so I’m just going park my low mileage 2018 SUV which is in high demand on the street with the keys in it and let whoever wants it to take it.

[exstatic]

Not sure anyone on Philly can get too much blame considering no team in the NBA bothered to claim him off waivers even though Bassey only had like $75,000 guaranteed this season. The Spurs signed him to a two-way contract which means it's highly likely that no team was even offering him a regular, non-guaranteed deal.

Even last year in very limited minutes, his advanced stats jumped off the page. His PER was 21.5, his WS/48 was .220.

[playbonner15]

Scola thread//

It still hurts :(

[TD 21]

:lmao Never fails. Somehow, the GM of the Spurs is to blame for every false step the past half decade, but the perceived GM of the 76ers (he's actually the POBO) somehow isn't, it's the coach.

When in doubt, blame the (half, in their cases) black man.

[Drom John]

This guy is the real deal

when was the last undrafted star

Isaiah Thomas?

Half joking

Fred VanVleet

[wildbill2u]

I'm also wondering about giving him some minutes at PF. He's a lot more mobile than Poertl and could defend there--if he can only develop a 3 pt shot. But then of course you come up with a problem of where to put Sochan??? Meanwhile, the team is stronger with this young player and we can let the coaches see where and when to work him into the rotation

[BackHome]

He could play PF in a pinch but his bread and butter is battling down low for rebounds, put backs, and back door dunks. Though I would not mind Pop doing his mad scientist schemes and seeing what players can and can not do in different positions

[exstatic]

:lmao Never fails. Somehow, the GM of the Spurs is to blame for every false step the past half decade, but the perceived GM of the 76ers (he's actually the POBO) somehow isn't, it's the coach.

When in doubt, blame the (half, in their cases) black man.

You really think the GM makes the roster cutdown decisions at the end of TC?

[TD 21]

You really think the GM makes the roster cutdown decisions at the end of TC?

POBO have final say over personnel decisions.

[mo7888]

He could play PF in a pinch but his bread and butter is battling down low for rebounds, put backs, and back door dunks. Though I would not mind Pop doing his mad scientist schemes and seeing what players can and can not do in different positions

I still think he can play in 'some' sets with Collins....it just depends on who the PF is out there that Bassey has to cover.

[The Truth #6]

POBO have final say over personnel decisions.

Like playing time?

[TD 21]

Like playing time?

They can have a say in that too, with the amount often coming down to the stature/experience of them and the head coach.

[exstatic]

POBO have final say over personnel decisions.

It would be very unlike Morey to cut a kid with great advanced stats. That’s kind of Darryl’s jam. It would be very like Doc, who actually said in an interview that he didn’t have time for development projects like Charles.

[rankingtear]

It would be very unlike Morey to cut a kid with great advanced stats. That’s kind of Darryl’s jam. It would be very like Doc, who actually said in an interview that he didn’t have time for development projects like Charles.

Morey was the one who signed off on the HOU reunion and brought Montrez though.

[The Truth #6]

It sounds like a combination of things: Morey brought Montrezz back and because Doc had no interest in developing Bassey, he was let go. Arguably, if Doc had actually played Bassey they might not have had the inclination to bring in Montrezz in the first place.

For me, this is classic Doc. With Tyrese Maxey, he put up 40 points as a rookie one game and he still was barely getting minutes and had to wait behind someone named Shake Milton. I think it's perfectly ok to critique Doc for his coaching tendencies.

[ambchang]

It sounds like a combination of things: Morey brought Montrezz back and because Doc had no interest in developing Bassey, he was let go. Arguably, if Doc had actually played Bassey they might not have had the inclination to bring in Montrezz in the first place.

For me, this is classic Doc. With Tyrese Maxey, he put up 40 points as a rookie one game and he still was barely getting minutes and had to wait behind someone named Shake Milton. I think it's perfectly ok to critique Doc for his coaching tendencies.

One of the 15 best coaches of all time. Over the like of Rudy T, Kundla, adelman, Carlisle, or even d’antoni.

[exstatic]

One of the 15 best coaches of all time. Over the like of Rudy T, Kundla, adelman, Carlisle, or even d’antoni.

Rudy T has two rings, and Carlisle has one, really Docs only claim to fame.

[TD 21]

It would be very unlike Morey to cut a kid with great advanced stats. That’s kind of Darryl’s jam. It would be very like Doc, who actually said in an interview that he didn’t have time for development projects like Charles.

Given how little Rivers has played Harrell from the jump even with Embiid in and out, it's logical to conclude he was indifferent at best.

Right or wrong, an aspiring championship contender wasn't going to go that unproven in terms of experience/pedigree in a rotation spot, especially when the starter isn't durable.



Rudy T has two rings, and Carlisle has one, really Docs only claim to fame.

:lmao At RINGZ! without context.

If not for Garnett's knee injury in '09, there's a good chance the Celtics repeat and if Perkins didn't break his leg in game 6 of the '10 Finals, pressing washed, out of shape Wallace into extended minutes in game 7 against a team with two dominate centers, they might have won that too.

[BacktoBasics]

Doc is an overrated coach. A good coach, yeah he’s a good coach but he’s not a great coach. No one has done less with more than Doc.

[John B]

Doc is an overrated coach. A good coach, yeah he’s a good coach but he’s not a great coach. No one has done less with more than Doc.

Anybody who has won an NBA Championship, I’d say is a good coach, especially against Kobe’s loaded team. But a great coach, Doc is not.

[TD 21]

Doc is an overrated coach. A good coach, yeah he’s a good coach but he’s not a great coach. No one has done less with more than Doc.

:lmao He's the most criticized coach in the league and virtually the only one with championship pedigree who's not treated as if he's a genius, so how is this possible?

In reality, like most he's neither good nor bad and is mostly irrelevant. No quantifiable way to determine good and bad is only when they're shameless self-promotors or out of touch with how today's league works, which generally leads to a short stint. The rest are either beneficiaries or victims of the circumstances they find themselves in.

[exstatic]

:lmao He's the most criticized coach in the league and virtually the only one with championship pedigree who's not treated as if he's a genius, so how is this possible?

In reality, like most he's neither good nor bad and is mostly irrelevant. No quantifiable way to determine good and bad is only when they're shameless self-promotors or out of touch with how today's league works, which generally leads to a short stint. The rest are either beneficiaries or victims of the circumstances they find themselves in.

Docs chip was a long time ago, in the 90s-2000s nba. PeopletrashedPop over the last few years, but he seems to have finally embraced the modern game. The 76ers are 20th in the league in 3PA per game. The Spurs are 9th. The 76ers are 12th in 3G%, so it’s not like they shoot it badly. The Spurs are 10th in 3G%. Doc is apparently OK with this 90s offense.

[TD 21]

Docs chip was a long time ago, in the 90s-2000s nba. PeopletrashedPop over the last few years, but he seems to have finally embraced the modern game. The 76ers are 20th in the league in 3PA per game. The Spurs are 9th. The 76ers are 12th in 3G%, so it’s not like they shoot it badly. The Spurs are 10th in 3G%. Doc is apparently OK with this 90s offense.

So was Carlisle and Popovich and Tomjanovich was significantly longer than all.

It's all about personnel. The Spurs were a low volume 3-point shooting team for years because their primary options were that and the second the latter changed, magically the former did.

It's no different with the 76ers where Harden is the only high usage option who doubles as a high volume 3-point shooter and he's now missed 35.7% of the season.

Funny, you defend Pop to no end over this and any other criticism, but somehow Rivers gets blamed for the same thing.

[BackHome]

Rudy T has two rings, and Carlisle has one, really Docs only claim to fame.

I think he holds the record for being up two games in a playoff and then ends up loosing the next three or four games. He has done that like 3 or 4 times against teams with worse records.. ...He is a terrible playoff coach

[BacktoBasics]

:lmao He's the most criticized coach in the league and virtually the only one with championship pedigree who's not treated as if he's a genius, so how is this possible?

In reality, like most he's neither good nor bad and is mostly irrelevant. No quantifiable way to determine good and bad is only when they're shameless self-promotors or out of touch with how today's league works, which generally leads to a short stint. The rest are either beneficiaries or victims of the circumstances they find themselves in.

Not sure pedigree is the right word, maybe I guess. He’s a good coach. Got a ring.

Take me to task.

What’s his coaching tree?

What’s his claim to fame when it comes to players drafted that he coached up?

Which of his drafted players have exceeded expectation largely due to his coaching?

What statistical anomalies or marks of greatness does he own?

What innovation or innovative aspect of his coaching garnered league wide praise or attributed to a league shift is style or development?

He’s good okay. But he’s just a good coach, nothing more.

[TD 21]

Not sure pedigree is the right word, maybe I guess. He’s a good coach. Got a ring.

Take me to task.

What’s his coaching tree?

What’s his claim to fame when it comes to players drafted that he coached up?

Which of his drafted players have exceeded expectation largely due to his coaching?

What statistical anomalies or marks of greatness does he own?

What innovation or innovative aspect of his coaching garnered league wide praise or attributed to a league shift is style or development?

He’s good okay. But he’s just a good coach, nothing more.

Now you're just ignoring what I've said to push a narrative.

That's all nonsense that gets assigned based on who's scratched who's back in the national media and them returning serve, then it spreads like a virus with groupthink setting in as it gets regurgitated ad nauseam until finally it's passed off as fact.

[tonight...you]

Lol. Just learn to love Doc people!
He's geat and victimized!

[Maddog]

I think he holds the record for being up two games in a playoff and then ends up loosing the next three or four games. He has done that like 3 or 4 times against teams with worse records.. ...He is a terrible playoff coach

Lost 3 series when up 3-1
No other coach has loss more than one

It's happened 13 times, Doc is responsible for 23%

[TD 21]

Lol. Just learn to love Doc people!
He's geat and victimized!

Not at all what I said. More narrative pushing.

[tonight...you]

Not at all what I said. More narrative pushing.
So you disagree?

[scott]

Why we tarnishing Bassey's thread with all this talk of Doc fuckin' Rivers? :lol

[tonight...you]

Why we tarnishing Bassey's thread with all this talk of Doc fuckin' Rivers? :lol
You're right and I'm fucking guilty.

This, my main man, deserves to ride out every one of his 50 game 2-Way and then get signed to a good, multi year contract along with every "you had a moment here, so you get all the perks in this town" deal.
Which includes immediately giving him shine in them there HEB commercials which I don't get to see here unless I look them up!

[RC_Drunkford]

I think he holds the record for being up two games in a playoff and then ends up loosing the next three or four games. He has done that like 3 or 4 times against teams with worse records.. ...He is a terrible playoff coach

yeah Doc holds the record for most blown 3-1 leads. Not only that, but last year the Sixers were up 3-0 against the Raptors and won the series 4-2. When it comes to installing appropriate fear into his team and motivating them to close out the opponent, he's probably the worst coach ever at that. Otherwise he's ok I guess, but has underachieved in the playoffs quite a lot

[BacktoBasics]

Now you're just ignoring what I've said to push a narrative.

That's all nonsense that gets assigned based on who's scratched who's back in the national media and them returning serve, then it spreads like a virus with groupthink setting in as it gets regurgitated ad nauseam until finally it's passed off as fact.

You still have to succeed though. I don’t think trivializing the league as a good ole boys club is a very strong argument.

[Chomag]

I'm loving us having thus guy on our team, he is so old school in his physicality that you rarely see in the game today, he kind of reminds me of Anthony Mason, Xavier McDaniel, and a bit of Kevin Willis .

[Rocalcio]

I actually think it's a great comparison. Bassey is undersized for a center, but Duren is also about the same height. I feel like Bassey is actually more athletic, too. For all the talk of taking Duren (or Mark Williams) at #9, we wound up with a player who is already more productive, if a bit older. I agree with your point.

From what I saw, Duren is having a great start.

[scott]

Bassey back to G-league, which I think is a good thing. We all obviously were too enamored with his impressive first few games - after that, he kind of lost his way. I think some time in the G-league where he can dominate, and on the typical Spurs development track will do him some good. I’d still like to lock him up on a cheap multi-year deal that best emulates a rookie-scale contract (is that even doable?). I’m a Bassey stan, but I think he has real potential to be a solid contributor for a long time.

[slick'81]

Hes definitely come back to earth but hopefully he can still develop into an end of the bench guy