Rookie Report Card: Grading Every First-Rounder on the Spurs Roster
By Ty Jager
9th Overall Pick: Jeremy Sochan
The 19-year-old Polish forward has become a fan favorite in his first season in San Antonio. Outside of the outlandish hair colors and eccentric personality, Sochan has shown an astounding range of basketball talents on the court.
Entering his rookie season, he was known for his defensive chops while playing at Baylor. He also arrived with a reputation for having limited offensive capabilities. More than half a year since the start of the season, Sochan has been a prime example of what midseason development looks like.
After shooting an abysmal 45.8% from the free throw line in his first 23 games and an overall lack of confidence in his offensive ability, Sochan switched from the traditional free throw form to an unorthodox one-handed motion. Since that change, he has improved to 76.1% from the line in the 33 games and shot 45.2% from the field, showing why the Spurs invested in him with the ninth overall pick.
Besides that noticeable improvement in his game, Sochan has shown he belongs in this league. Being assigned to some of the most formidable defensive matchups in the league, he has more than held his own against some of the best. While he's not perfect, his confidence in accepting the challenge already has him a step ahead of many players his age.
Sochan is active on both ends of the court. And despite shooting 24.6% from beyond the arc, his off-ball movement and court vision have enhanced the offense. The forward's passing ability for his position has been exceptional as he tosses lobs to teammates or threads the needle between defenders to cutting teammates.
While he can still enhance his scoring arsenal and decision-making, the 19-year-old has shown promising talent and an eagerness to improve.