Notable Quotables: Memorable Moments From Spurs Media Day
After an eventful offseason for PATFO, the boys are back in business.
The San Antonio Spurs hosted their annual media day at Victory Capital Performance Center on Monday morning, marking the unofficial beginning of their 2024-25 season. Yours truly was in attendance to welcome back a handful of familiar faces to the 2-1-0, including some longtime Western Conference adversaries who flipped allegiances this summer.
Traditional journalists, local news anchors, online bloggers, and a smattering of Spurs substackers gathered around a temporary podium to ask Head Coach Gregg Popovich, Victor Wembanyama, Chris Paul, and the rest of their supporting cast questions about the direction of this storied franchise. So, here are the most intriguing responses from every participant.
Gregg Popovich…
…on coaching Barnes at the 2019 FIBA World Cup.
…on what he wants from Chris Paul on the court.
…on his expectations for the Spurs this season.
…on the potential for Sidy Cissoko to earn a rotation spot.
…on finally having the opportunity to coach Chris Paul.
…on how the Devin Vassell injury impacts their rotation.
…on how Barnes and Paul can impact the young guys.
…on how the 2024 Olympics helped Wembanyama develop.
Keldon Johnson…
…on his expectations for the Spurs this season.
…on the role he’ll play in San Antonio this season.
…on his weight loss and how it’ll help his performance.
Jeremy Sochan…
…on his expectations for the Spurs this season.
…on how the Olympic Qualifiers impacted his mindset.
…on what he sees from Wembanyama behind closed doors.
…on how the point guard experience shaped his growth.
Devin Vassell…
…on how Wembanyama set a tone for the Spurs in Paris.
…on what he hopes to learn from Chris Paul as a passer.
…on the setbacks following his recovery from foot surgery.
…on his developmental goals for himself this season.
…on how Paul and Barnes can help the Spurs win.
Harrison Barnes…
…on how the Spurs can win more games this season.
…on how his experience can help this young Spurs roster.
…on maintaining consistency throughout the season.
…on the importance of leading by example.
…on why Jeremy Sochan is instrumental to the Spurs.
…on how the Spurs can help Wembanyama develop.
…on Wembanyama becoming a leader at the Olympics.
…on who has impressed him the most at scrimmages.
Chris Paul…
…on why he decided to sign with the Spurs this summer.
…on his early chemistry with new teammates.
…on his first impression of Stephon Castle.
…on teaming up with Wembanyama.
…on his initial conversations with Coach Popovich.
Victor Wembanyama…
…on handling pressure of raised expectations.
…on what he focused on this offseason.
…on adding muscle and working with Jamal Crawford.
…on what Chris Paul brings to the table.
…on how filling out his frame helps him take a leap.
Looking for a more in-depth review of everything said at media day? Then stay tuned as Gabe Esquivel joins me to record another edition of The Vic-and-Roll podcast this Wednesday as the Spurs kick off training camp.