Long Road Forward
Whenever I had opportunity to talk with a player projected second round to undrafted, I wondered what they thought about the possibility of spending the majority of their first season on D-League assignment, a reality for many guys who have gone before them. This question produced some of the most revealing answers of the media sessions.
Most of the responses were of the “no, I don’t want to play in the D-League” variety. Other players, surprisingly, knew very little about the D-League. One agent told me in a matter of fact manner that he “doesn’t really address” the subject with his clients. Most players responded to the question as if they existed in a bubble where they were surefire first round picks, with all the comforts of a guaranteed salary and a spot in the rotation. Unfortunately, most of them are not guaranteed those things-they’ll never know such luxuries.
But I don’t want to paint with too broad a stroke. At least two players with whom I spoke knew the score. Tyler Smith and Joe Ingles.
Ingles wasn’t enamored about the prospect of playing in the D-League. He told me plainly that he’d rather not. In some ways it would be a step down from his current situation, and given the choice between developing in the D-League and developing in Europe, he’d prefer Europe. He has his options. But then he paused. “That’s not the case with the Spurs. Their situation in Austin is different. It’s really not the same thing. The Toros are part of the Spurs’Â program.”
This distinction exists in time and space, at least from Ingles’ perspective. Joe Ingles is impressive in conversation and comes across as a consummate professional. He was well-versed in all things San Antonio, in part because Spurs assistant Brett Brown is head coach of Australia’s men’s basketball team. Ingles has played professionally for 3 seasons, and he’s grown accustomed to the advantages this brings. Specifically, the attention of a full time coaching staff, trainers, and the ability to concentrate on his game without distraction. He’s a guy who enjoys being coached. San Antonio’s coach by proxy program in Austin was attractive to him in all the ways a typical assignment would not be.  He’s a smart guy.
Tyler Smith reacted similarly. He knew that the draft process was an audition for professional basketball clubs everywhere. Much like Ingles, Smith wasn’t keen on playing in the D-League, but he quickly acknowledged a difference in what San Antonio did. And much like Ingles, he seemed to embrace the opportunity to play for a team so deeply committed to player development. I have no doubt that both players will do everything within their power to crack an NBA rotation as quickly as they’re able. But between now and then, neither is above coaching. Both welcome it.
No one knows where each player will be drafted, or by whom. Ingles and Smith have worked out for the Spurs and each spoke highly of the franchise. But what struck me about each of them is that they had a realistic perspective on what lies ahead. Neither player will think he has arrived when his name is called on draft night. It’s a long road forward.
