San Antonio Spurs forward Jeremy Sochan grew up watching the annual rookie-sophomore game at NBA All-Star Weekend, and the ninth pick will now have the opportunity to play in the event.
Sochan was one of 11 first-year players voted by assistant coaches across the league to participate in the Rising Stars game on Feb. 17 in Salt Lake City, Utah. The competition will also feature 10 second-year players and seven players from the G League.
The 19-year-old was excited and happy to earn the nod after a productive rookie campaign with the Spurs. He watched the showcase often over the years while living in England and is excited to be participating in it now as a player.
In general, as a kid, I think I always knew I was going to be in the NBA. I always had high expectations of what I’m going to be able to achieve in the NBA and just life in general. These types of achievements, I don’t really set, I think it is just something that comes from playing well and being yourself.
Sochan is averaging 9.9 points, 4.8 rebounds and 2.5 assists on 45.7% shooting from the field in 45 games. He is one of only two rookies this season with at least 400 points, 200 rebounds and 100 assists (Paolo Banchero).
He recently earned high praise from Spurs coach Gregg Popovich for his ability on both ends of the court. He loves the way Sochan plays and once again commended the rookie after his Rising Stars selection.
He has earned it. He has been a great player to watch. He does so many great things. You don’t know what he is going to do exactly but he throws it out there. He competes, guards 1-5. He is a point guard, a four-man. He is a rebounder, a defender; not afraid to make mistakes. He has a lot of courage. I’m thrilled for him.
Sochan will be the 10th player in team history to compete in the event and the first since Keldon Johnson in 2021. He believes it will be a fun back-and-forth with the competition and a great overall opportunity to enjoy the festivities.
“There are going to be a lot of legends and different types of people so I think connecting and becoming bigger in that way is going to be important,” Sochan said. “It is going to be a lot of fun off the court with media and different appearances. It is going to be a lot of fun, for sure.”
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