5 Intriguing NBA Draft prospects with Spurs ties

Paolo Banchero, Brady Manek
Paolo Banchero, Brady Manek / Lance King/GettyImages
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San Antonio Spurs
MarJon Beauchamp / Jason Miller/GettyImages

2. MarJon Beauchamp, G League Ignite

Another Seattle native, MarJon Beauchamp played high school basketball at Rainier Beach -- the same school Dejounte Murray attended. MarJon credits Murray and fellow Rainier Beach alum Jamal Crawford, for helping him get to where he is. "They give me advice on how to lead my team....and support me," Beauchamp said.

In 2021-22, Beauchamp opted not to attend college and instead chose to play for the Ignite of the NBA G League. There, he showcased his defensive upside and efficiency. In 36 minutes per contest, he shot 57% from the field, with an even higher true shooting percentage of 63.5%. Defensively, he was a force on the boards, where he grabbed 7.3 rebounds per contest despite standing at just 6'6".

Beauchamp would bring a solid defensive presence to any lineup with his keen natural instincts. He could be a good value pick for the Spurs with one of their later first-round picks, especially if they're able to nab him at 25.

San Antonio Spurs
Jake LaRavia / Sarah Stier/GettyImages

3. Jake LaRavia, Wake Forest

It's hard to mention Wake Forest basketball without immediately thinking of the greatness of Tim Duncan. Jake LaRavia walked the same hallways and played on the same court as Duncan during his time in Winston-Salem. And while LaRavia may not be quite the powerhouse TD was coming out of Wake Forest in 1997, he's a versatile all-around player that could help the Spurs from day one.

A big wing that plays like a modern four, LaRavia has excellent touch around the rim, shooting 56% from the floor in 2021-22. He's a bruiser who can take you off the dribble from 15 feet out and score over you or hit you with a sneaky good right-handed hook shot. The 228-pound forward isn't one-dimensional offensively, either. LaRavia shot 38% from three on 73 attempts during his junior season at Wake. He brings a strong rebounding presence as well and could be a very solid addition with the 38th pick.