Recapping Kyle Anderson’s First Assignment In D-League

Kyle Anderson was assigned to the Austin Spurs on Sunday. It marked as his first assignment to the developmental league (NBADL) this season. They played the Santa Cruz Warriors and Anderson had quite the game. He went for 18 points, 11 rebounds, 6 assists, and 2 steals helping the Austin Spurs get their first win of the season.

It was the sort of game we were accustomed to seeing him play at UCLA, where it seemed that everything his team did went through him. Kyle Anderson shot 7-16 from the field and connected on 1-2 three point attempts. What made Anderson’s performance special was that he only had one turnover in the 41 minutes he played.

While his teammates JaMychal Green and Jarell Eddie had big scoring nights, it was Kyle Anderson that had the best all around performance. Green finished with 27 points (13-22 fg) and 14 rebounds. Eddie also contributed with 20 points and 4 rebounds. Un-drafted rookie Bryce Cotton, who was waived by the Spurs also played well. Cotton finished with 15 points, 12 assists, and only one turnover.

If Kyle Anderson stays with the Austin Spurs and has more performances like this, the Spurs should consider giving him a role. Anderson can play two to three positions, can rebound well, and passes like a guard. The key to Anderson’s success will be his shot. Kyle Anderson showed that he is capable of knocking down the outside shot last season at UCLA, where he shot 48% from three. He must prove he can knock it down consistently from NBA distance.

The Austin Spurs next contest is on Sunday, November 30 against the Oklahoma City Blue. Letting Kyle Anderson play big minutes in the developmental league will help prepare him for a future role with the San Antonio Spurs, as he can improve on his defense and three point shooting.