SLC SUMMER LEAGUE - GAME 2: SPURS VS. UTAH BLUE, 4-8-2021, 6PM (CT)

[G R E Y]

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Primo time!

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[G R E Y]

Primo points! It just writes itself

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Devin super hops!

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New nickname alert:

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We were up by 7 but gave up a big run and the lead. But it's another new starting group, new chemistry to build. With Devin we look better having a go-to guy, we look a bit better. Even with a weird first pro year, you can see Devin can get what he wants out there. Good talent, just scratching the surface.

1ST Q: SPURS 18 UTAH 24

[G R E Y]

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There's something pleasing about the deliberate nature of Primo's movement. He doesn't waste movement and finishes in a crafty way atvthe rim. Good read.

He's also turning it over too much and his footwork while good is also a bit too wide in parts where they should be a little closer and quicker to better maneuver around defenders.

He's being tasked with PG so his decision making and handles are already thrown into the fire.

He has an interesting blend of wanting to show what he's got yet at his own pace.

Spurs got outhustled in this Q and over matched in energy and physicality.

Commentators: "If the Spurs can just make a 3..."

2ND Q: SPURS 26 UTAH 37

[G R E Y]

Spurs don't look as organized in their set plays and that makes for some tentative often late reads and reactions.

Primo leads us in scoring and was more assertive to start the second half driving. But it was Devin who took initiative later in the Q with ball handling, looking to create his shot on drives. Finishing at the rim from a half court set need some work, but it's good to see him stretching these muscles.

We're missing a lot of shots front of rim so it's either leg fatigue or trying to guide the ball in.


3RD Q: SPURS 39 UTAH 57

[G R E Y]

Wow the SLC SL commentators are describing Primo as a "Pro's pro to be". It's just the way he carries himself, playing within himself and in his own rhythm which they noticed as well.

That's not to say that he doesn't have a LOT to learn or that he looked super polished, he didn't, but there are qualities that stand out.

He drove well and didn't shy away from contact; he can finish with both hands at the rim; he can pull back and hit a 3; he has good court vision to connect teammates with passes:

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That said, I do not like his one hand telegraphed passes across the arc. These will get stolen easily at the NBA level and Pop will blow a gasket the first time he sees one get stolen.

Primo finished with 11 points in his debut and looked like he belongs. But we will need to be patient. He has a lot of skill and great instinct for the game and these collectively take longer to develop than one main calling card. He would still be one of the youngest draftews in NEXT year's draft had h return d to college. Just some context.

Devin was more assertive which was great to see. Some solid defense, as expected, and showed some handles but was far better in transition in getting to the basket. He showed a terrific awareness in heaving a full court outlet pass after a D board as well:

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But I also loved this move which is looking more smooth than last season:

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Although we only had limited time together, so too did our opponents, so the coaching staff has some work to do to get us looking more cohesive.

We were pressured at the arc, made few 3s, and left too many open while our opponents struck from beyond the arc. We tended to over-helo on their drives and gave up on rotating out to the kick outs. But even when we had hands up and contested they hit a lot if their shots, so sometimes you just tip your hat.

Hopefully we look more crisp and unified next game and show some improvements.

4TH Q: SPURS 54 UTAH 78

[G R E Y]

Post-game interviews:

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