Welcome to the Open Thread. In the course of the month of June, we’re counting right down to the 2025 NBA Draft on June twenty fifth. As we do, we might be revisiting the Spurs draft selections. Right this moment we keep in mind 2001.
An instantaneous impression was made within the Alamo Metropolis as PATFO drafted an unknown French level guard named Tony Parker with the twenty eighth decide in 2001. As each Spurs fan must be conscious, his have an effect on was highly effective. Overlook that he was ignored by 27 NBA groups. Overlook that Tim Duncan didn’t even converse to him in his first season. Overlook that he rode the pine in the course of the NBA Finals whereas Speedy Claxton took a bigger position. Parker took over the start line guard place simply 5 video games into his first season. He’s the slickest member of the Huge 3, identified for his capability to get to the basket utilizing velocity and agility. His 2007 Finals MVP exhibited the shift in Spurs sport as their star gamers aged gracefully.
In 2000, the Spurs traded their 54th draft decide Cory Hightower to the Los Angeles Lakers for two future second spherical draft selections. The primary of these was Robertas Javtokas who was the 56th decide of the draft. Though the Spurs retained his rights till his 2017 retirement, he by no means performed within the NBA.
The Spurs additionally retained their very own 58th draft decide and selected Bryan Bracey from the College of Oregon. Bracey performed ten video games within the D-League earlier than spending the vast majority of his profession abroad.
Three gamers, however just one made the reduce. And what a beautiful profession that one participant has had. This summer season the Spurs face an uncertain future. Right here’s hoping that the Spurs can keep their legendary level guard to assist form the way forward for the Spurs.
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