Why I thought one way or the other, Spurs will select Reed Sheppard? I will base first my premise in the article “What we learned from the Spurs win over the Suns by Jacob Douglas dated March 26, 2024” of Poundingtherock.com. Douglas opined that “. . . the Spurs are better when they play fast . . .As they look at what to do in the offseason, more players that space the floor and make life easier in the half-court should be a priority.”
First, we can jumpstart a fastbreak (playing fast) through defensive rebounds, blocks and steals. Reed has quick hands as he has 3.1 steals per 36 min. and excel in throwing long outlet pass. He is a decent shot blocker for his size at 0.9 block per 36 min . Of course, Rebounds can be met by other picks.
Second, Reed can space the floor as he averaged 52.1 in 3P% and has a true shooting % of 69.9
Third, Reed is a dog. He came to college as number 23 prospect behind Collier, Holland, Edwards, Wagner, Buzelis, Bradshaw, Williams, Walter, MCCain, Castle, Dillingham before he earned the coveted freshman of the year award through constant improvement.
I’m not as good as various award-giving bodies (ESPN, CBS Sports, Basketball Writers, Basketball Coaches) but there must be a reason why Reed was their choice as Freshman of the Year 2024.
I would be content if Reed is the choice in the draft.