San Antonio Spurs Rookie Watch - Carter Bryant

With much of the spotlight understandably focused on Dylan Harper, the second overall pick from the 2025 NBA Draft, San Antonio’s other first-round selection, Carter Bryant, has little pressure on him during his first season. However, that doesn’t mean that the 6’8” forward from Arizona will not have an opportunity to help push the Spurs into the postseason race. 

After being named an All-American during his senior season at Centennial High School, Bryant struggled to mirror that output during his freshman season with the Wildcats, averaging just 6.5 points and 4.1 rebounds in a supporting role on an experienced team. Despite his less-than-impressive stats compared to his one-and-done peers, Bryant’s potential still made him attractive enough for the Spurs to nab him with the 14th pick in the draft. With a 6’11” wingspan and defensive instincts that make him an intriguing fit for the Spurs’ system, Bryant can make an impact on the court protecting the Spurs’ basket while he continues to enhance his offensive skill set.

On a San Antonio team that has quickly become crowded with talented players, Bryant will likely be utilized as a 3-and-D wing. Still just 19 years of age when the season starts, the Spurs do not have to rush Bryant into the lineup, as he will mostly be used with the second unit. With a logjam at the small forward position, with Devin Vassell projected to start with Keldon Johnson and Julian Champagnie coming off the bench, minutes for Bryant in his first season may be tough to come by unless the Spurs make a trade. 

However, this crowded rotation might actually benefit Bryant’s development. Learning from young veterans like Vassell and Johnson should help accelerate his growth. What makes the Spurs a dangerous team is the fact that their core of Victor Wembanyama, Stephon Castle, Jeremy Sochan, Vassell, and Johnson, along with these two rookies, are all operating on the same timeline, being 25 years of age or less. 

Averaging 7 points, 4.3 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and a pair of blocks in four Summer League games, it’s hard to imagine Bryant posting anything more than that during his first NBA season. However, given the fact that the Spurs are building a foundation with younger talent, time seems to be on Bryant’s side, playing the long game.