San Antonio Spurs Grooming Kyle Anderson With D-League Assignment
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The San Antonio Spurs and Kyle Anderson have something in common: The start of the NBA season hasn’t been kind to either of them. A sluggish start by the team has been mirrored by an even more disappointing showing by the rookie. It was only right that the Spurs sent Anderson down to their NBA Developmental League affiliate Austin Spurs.
After averaging 0.9 PPG and 2.4 RPG in seven appearances, the move came swiftly as Anderson seemed to be digressing. The D-League has been a valuable tool for the Spurs in recent years as the team has sent players like Corey Joseph and Aron Baynes to earn their stripes. Many players have gone through the ranks only to come out a better player from it, and the Spurs are hoping the same will happen for their bright rookie talent.
It appears that the Anderson has begun reaping the benefits of the jolt in his development. In his first D-League game, he tallied up 18 points, 11 rebounds and six assists in a win. Anderson looked like a totally different player, attacking from different angles and knocking down high-difficulty shots. The ball was entrusted to Anderson, which boosted his confidence.
If Anderson can use this experience to learn who he is inside the Spurs’ system and organization, he could add a special dynamic to the depth of San Antonio. He has all the intangibles that make up a capable Spurs player. His court intelligence, selfless attitude and versatile skillset will allow him to be a contributor for the Spurs for years to come.
It is up to Anderson to decide how big his contributions will be.
Winston Harris is a San Antonio sports writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on twitter @winstonharris34. “Like” him on Facebook and add him on Google.
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