Latest news with #Bryant
Yahoo
14 hours ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Why Spurs strike NBA Draft gold again with Carter Bryant
The post Why Spurs strike NBA Draft gold again with Carter Bryant appeared first on ClutchPoints. After an NBA Draft Lottery night that went the best the San Antonio Spurs could've realistically expected as they beat odds to climb all the way to number two, NBA Draft Night proved the best they could've realistically expected because of Carter Bryant. Advertisement The Silver and Black knew they were taking Dylan Harper with the second overall pick because there was no doubt Cooper Flagg was going to the Dallas Mavericks. Their second selection of the first round, at 14 overall, was the mystery. In need of a big man who could help and complement Victor Wembanyama, Khaman Maluach proved a tantalizing want. But the chances that he'd still be there for the last pick of the lottery represented, at best, a dream scenario. Of the players who could be there at 14, Bryant stood out. Yet, like Maluach, the chance that he'd still be around seemed slim. Many mock drafts had him at 10 or 11. And yet, he fell to 14 and right into the lap of a Spurs team that could use every one of his emerging talents and abilities. Aryanna Frank-Imagn Images The Carter Bryant player profile What is Carter Bryant's game? At the risk of exaggeration, think of the modern NBA. Now think of the type of player who typically stands out in today's game. That's Carter Bryant. Advertisement Extremely athletic, the former Arizona Wildcat stands 6-foot-8 with a wingspan that reaches seven feet. He can run. He can jump. He's a defensive menace. Offensively, he can move without the ball. He can shoot. He put it up at 37% from 3-point range and 46% from the field in college. And he can leap. Often, he finds creases and makes his way to the basket for easy buckets, often dunks. Perhaps, most importantly, he's just 19 years old and came off the bench as a freshman. A projected 3-and-D wing, he has plenty of room to grow. Steven Bisig-Imagn Images How Carter Bryant fits with the Spurs Leading up to the draft, analysts wondered how Harper would fit with the Spurs given that they already had guard De'Aaron Fox and reigning Rookie of the Year, Stephon Castle, on the roster. No need to wonder how Bryant fits: The Spurs don't have anyone on the roster like him. Advertisement Devin Vassell's focus is on offense. While athletic, Jeremy Sochan is still finding his stroke. In different ways, Harrison Barnes and Keldon Johnson find ways to score, but neither is a defensive dynamo nor possesses physical traits that jump off the page in the NBA. Blake Wesley isn't a big point guard, while Malaki Branham fell out of the rotation this past season. The lack of another big may be San Antonio's biggest weakness. Their lack of athleticism, mainly for defensive purposes, on the wing is an area that comes in a close second. Bryant begins the path to repairing that. In the meantime, Wemby's presence as a defensive anchor isn't a bad consolation as the Silver and Black will look to free agency or possibly a trade to fill that need. Add that Bryant can shoot, and he helps to plug another gap for a team that struggled from behind the arc. All in all, he fits. And the Spurs fit the tag of the team that drafts well annually. Related: Dylan Harper's mom goes viral at 2025 NBA Draft after Spurs selection Related: Victor Wembanyama calls Dylan Harper after Spurs' No. 2 pick
Yahoo
14 hours ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Carter Bryant reveals unpopular legend he modeled his game after
The post Carter Bryant reveals unpopular legend he modeled his game after appeared first on ClutchPoints. Most San Antonio Spurs fans were ecstatic when the team picked Carter Bryant with the 14th overall pick of the NBA Draft. Perhaps it's a bit ironic then that the potential steal of the first round invoked Kawhi Leonard when asked which former Spurs his game might most compare to. Advertisement Leonard is undoubtedly the most unpopular former Spur among the proud franchise's fan base. Because it's now been seven years since the six-time All-Star asked out of San Antonio – a summer in which Bryant would've been 12 years old – he may not be aware of the bad blood that still exists. 'Immediately, the first guy I think of is Kawhi,' the former Arizona Wildcat answered. 'Just his defensive versatility, being able to guard multiple positions early on in his career. And, just, as you saw his progression.' It's obvious Bryant has tracked Leonard's career since the current Los Angeles Clipper won the 2014 NBA Finals MVP in leading San Antonio to their fifth championship. Advertisement 'He became one of the best players in the world, arguably a top-three player to be playing basketball at a time where Kevin Durant, Steph Curry, and LeBron [James] were pretty much solidified to be the top three. But he was really making a statement that he was one of the best players in the world as well.' Carter Bryant talks fit with the Spurs While Bryant mentioned Leonard, it's his fellow Spurs first round draft pick who'll wear 'The Klaw's' old number. 'Dylan [Harper], for sure, is gonna have two if nobody has two,' Bryant said of the second overall pick. 'I don't know. I gotta look at who has what numbers on the team,' he continued about which jersey number he'll wear. 'That's a great question.' Advertisement Bryant then mentioned Rookie of the Year Stephon Castle, De'Aaron Fox, who's made an All-Star game, and generational superstar Victor Wembanyama in scrolling through what number he'd settle on. 'I know Steph's got five. That's my dog. I'm not getting that off of him. Does D. Fox wear four? Yep, I can't get four, Fox is four. Four plus five for nine,' Bryant continued with a reference that he can't have nine because it's Tony Parker's retired number. 'Wemby's got the one. I'm gonna have to figure something out. It's all good.' Reports have since indicated Bryant will wear the number 11. In any event, there's little debate that he could have an early impact for a team that's looking to turn the corner and make the playoffs for the first time since 2019. Top analysts see Bryant as a player who can effectively fit the good '3 and D' model so many teams covet. Advertisement 'I see myself being a guy that can bring energy, toughness, physicality. Somebody that's just gonna show up on a consistent basis and just work his a** off. I feel like that's what I bring in.' The Spurs were pleasantly surprised that Bryant was there at 14. Expectations now shift. Don't be surprised if the 19-year-old wing gets some meaningful minutes for a young Spurs team that continues to improve on paper, Related: Sixers, Spurs highlight biggest winners of 2025 NBA Draft Related: Spurs' Dylan Harper shares eye-opening Giannis Antetokounmpo workout story
USA Today
3 days ago
- Sport
- USA Today
Projected lottery pick Carter Bryant reveals his most NBA-ready traits
Carter Bryant is highly touted entering the 2025 NBA draft, and the former Arizona standout believes he has several qualities that will enable him to make an impact at the next level. Bryant helped the Wildcats to the Sweet 16, averaging 6.5 points, 4.1 rebounds and one assist on 37.1% shooting from 3-point range. He scored in double figures five times, including a season-high-tying 14 points, three rebounds, two steals and two blocks on Jan. 27. The 6-foot-7 forward is considered a possible lottery pick on Wednesday because of scoring potential, playmaking ability and size. He believes he brings another key characteristic. "I would say being able to defend multiple positions, along with being able to shoot the basketball," Bryant said on Tuesday. "I think (those are) two things the NBA will forever need, no matter if you're an 18th-year player or you're in your first year of playing basketball at that level. I think those are two things that translate immediately." Bryant is an intriguing prospect for teams thanks to his ability on both ends of the court and 6-foot, 11 3/4-inch wingspan. He also proved to be a reliable floor spacer after connecting on at least two 3-pointers in 12 games with the Wildcats. The 19-year-old came off the bench for much of the season, becoming a key contributor in the Wildcats' second unit. He showcased his defensive versatility in 19.3 minutes per game and emerged as a ferocious dunker throughout the season. Bryant, who worked out with five teams, also believes his passing is an underrated part of his game that should translate to the next level. On the eve of the draft, Bryant is eager to find his next team and get to work with his new teammates. "I always say it, but basketball is so unique because it is something you're always working toward in terms of perfection and being great at some things," Bryant said. "You're going to work your ass off every day and you may never be able to obtain it so that has been my mentality toward everything."
Los Angeles Times
4 days ago
- Sport
- Los Angeles Times
Kobe Bryant's words inspire Tyrese Haliburton after ‘shock' Achilles injury in Finals
A day after having to leave the biggest game of his life, Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton shared his first public comments since tearing his right Achilles tendon early in Game 7 of the NBA Finals. 'Words cannot express the pain of this letdown,' Haliburton wrote on X (formerly Twitter) after undergoing surgery Monday to repair the tendon. 'The frustration is unfathomable. I've worked my whole life to get to this moment and this is how it ends? Makes no sense.' But for the majority of his five-paragraph post, which Haliburton accompanied with a photo of himself smiling and forming a heart with his hands from a hospital bed, the two-time All Star also delivered a message of optimism and determination. And he did so, in part, by quoting late Lakers legend Kobe Bryant, who overcame the same injury in 2013. 'I think Kobe said it best when in this same situation,' Haliburton wrote. ''There are far greater issues/challenges in the world then a torn achilles. Stop feeling sorry for yourself, find the silver lining and get to work with the same belief, same drive and same conviction as ever.' 'And that's exactly right. I will do everything in my power to get back right.' Bryant's words were part of a lengthy Facebook post early in the morning on April 13, 2013, hours after tearing his left Achilles tendon while driving to the basket during a game against the Golden State Warriors the previous night. After suffering the injury, Bryant famously stayed in the game long enough to sink two free throws. In his post, Bryant describes his raw emotions and even uncharacteristically expresses some self-doubt before his famous Mamba Mentality inevitably surfaces. 'All the training and sacrifice just flew out the window with one step that I've done millions of times!' wrote Bryant, who was 34 at the time. 'The frustration is unbearable. The anger is rage. Why the hell did this happen ?!? Makes no damn sense. Now I'm supposed to come back from this and be the same player Or better at 35?!? How in the world am I supposed to do that?? 'I have NO CLUE. Do I have the consistent will to overcome this thing? Maybe I should break out the rocking chair and reminisce on the career that was. Maybe this is how my book ends. Maybe Father Time has defeated again maybe not! 'Its 3:30am, my foot feels like dead weight, my head is spinning from the pain meds and Im wide awake. Forgive my Venting but whats the purpose of social media if I wont bring it to you Real No Image?? Feels good to vent, let it out. To feel as if THIS is the WORST thing EVER! Because After ALL the venting, a real perspective sets in.' That's where Bryant writes the words that Haliburton quoted. 'We don't quit, we don't cower, we don't run,' Bryant wrote later in the post. 'We endure and conquer.' True to his word, Bryant returned to the floor with the Lakers on Dec. 8, 2013. He dealt with several other injuries — including a knee injury that ended his 2013-14 season just six games after he returned from the Achilles — before retiring at the end of the 2015-16 season, his 20th in the NBA. More than a decade later, a 25-year-old star is using Bryant's words as inspiration, days after being unable to help his team in a 103-91 loss to the Thunder with the NBA championship on the line. Here is Haliburton's full post: 'Man. Don't know how to explain it other than shock. Words cannot express the pain of this letdown. The frustration is unfathomable. I've worked my whole life to get to this moment and this is how it ends? Makes no sense. 'Now that I've gotten surgery, I wish I could count the number of times people will tell me I'm going to 'come back stronger'. What a cliche lol, this s— sucks. My foot feels like dead weight fam. But what's hurting most I think is my mind. Feel like I'm rambling, but I know this is something I'll look back on when I'm through this, as something I'm proud I fought through. It feels good to let this s— out without y'all seeing the kid ugly cry. 'At 25, I've already learned that God never gives us more than we can handle. I know I'll come out on the other side of this a better man and a better player. And honestly, right now, torn Achilles and all, I don't regret it. I'd do it again, and again after that, to fight for this city and my brothers. For the chance to do something special. 'Indy, I'm sorry. If any fan base doesn't deserve this, it's y'all. But together we are going to fight like hell to get back to this very spot, and get over this hurdle. I don't doubt for a second that y'all have my back, and I hope you guys know that I have yours. I think Kobe said it best when in this same situation. 'There are far greater issues/challenges in the world then a torn achilles. Stop feeling sorry for yourself, find the silver lining and get to work with the same belief, same drive and same conviction as ever.' And that's exactly right. I will do everything in my power to get back right. 'My journey to get to where I am today wasn't by happenstance, I've pushed myself every day to be great. And I will continue to do just that. The most important part of this all, is that I'm grateful. I'm grateful for every single experience that's led me here. I'm grateful for all the love from the hoop world. I don't 'have to' go through this, I get to go through this. I'm grateful for the road that lies ahead. Watch how I come back from this. So, give me some time, I'll dust myself off and get right back to being the best version of Tyrese Haliburton. 'Proverbs 3:5-6 'Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.''
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Dez Bryant All-In on NFC East
Dez Bryant All-In on NFC East originally appeared on Athlon Sports. Dallas Cowboys legend Dez Bryant has high hopes for the division he once dominated. Bryant predicts the NFC East division will boast the Super Bowl champion this upcoming season. Advertisement But which team, Dez? For starters ... Bryant foresees the division winning back-to-back Vince Lombardi trophies after the Philadelphia Eagles defeated the Kansas City Chiefs 40-22 in last year's season finale. "That's the division to watch. I think the Super Bowl is coming out of the East this year," Bryant told Fox News Digital at Fanatics Fest. He puts Dallas - coming off. 7-10 season - in the mix. That's a start, we suppose. The former wideout has never wavered in his support of the Cowboys and is excited about the potential dynamic duo of CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens in the new-look offense. "It opens up a lot," Bryant said. "I don't know how you don't be successful with George Pickens and CeeDee Lamb on the field at the same time. It's going to cause a lot of trouble. Schotty got to get in there and figure out the best scheme to score points. Advertisement "If we score points, we're good." Head coach Brian Schottenheimer has emphasized the importance of building a winning culture throughout the offseason and Bryant believes the Cowboys are headed in the right direction. "I love everything he's been doing as of late," Bryant said. "You gotta give him his credit. He's got the energy flowing in the building, the guys are happy to be there, and the guys would run through a wall for him. So, I'm looking forward to seeing what's going on." With the Washington Commanders also in the mix to be playoff contenders, the NFC East looks poised to produce a serious Super Bowl contender. So Dez could be right about the division ... with high hopes for his favorite team. Related: 'Problem' Cowboys Predicted To Be 'At The Top' Of The NFC East This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 24, 2025, where it first appeared.
