San Antonio Spurs rookie Josh Primo has split the season between the NBA and NBA G League and has, understandably, experienced some ups and downs along the way.
Primo, in 33 games, is averaging 4.8 points, 1.8 rebounds and 1.4 assists on 36.9% shooting from the field with the Spurs. He has spent much of the past month with San Antonio and has seen sporadic playing time during that stretch based on a variety of factors.
The 12th pick is posting six points, 2.2 rebounds and 1.5 assists on 32.4% shooting during that stretch. He has battled through some foul trouble and has struggled to shoot, just two areas that can often complicate things for a first-year player.
Despite the recent rough patch, the Spurs have continued to encourage Primo along the way. Spurs All-Star Dejounte Murray revealed his advice to the 19-year-old.
It is a process. It can be difficult at times. It could be really good at times. He is just going through a difficult time right now. When you have a consistent role when you know you’re playing each and every game and you know your minutes, it is easier to be consistent.
He is just going through that tough little thing where he is in Austin and then comes up here and he might get in, he might not get in. I just tell him to stay focused and know it is for the better and the bigger picture and it’ll all be greater later.
Primo has often impressed his Spurs teammates with the poise and control he plays with when he steps onto the court. He plays confidently but can also make all of the reads a seasoned veteran would make, from passing to keeping the ball himself.
He entered the NBA draft as the youngest prospect but head coach Gregg Popovich has commended him for the maturity he brings on a daily basis. The team is bringing him along slowly but it is clear that he has impressed throughout the season.
The Spurs certainly view Primo as a big part of the future, and he has shown why in a small sample size this season. The organization has found great success in developing players and Primo is poised to be the next one in line to benefit.
This post originally appeared on Rookie Wire! Follow us on Facebook!
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