Spurs’ hidden gem can transform offseason from good to great

With the addition of four new players, the San Antonio Spurs' roster is almost complete. However, there may be one more player who could make the team: Riley Minix.

Minix had an unusual route to the NBA, playing college for four seasons in the NAIA, which is far smaller than the NCAA, for Southeastern. While that was obviously against inferior competition, he averaged 20.7 points and 10.6 rebounds and shot 40.8% from three on 5.6 3-point attempts per game in 99 games.

He then transferred to Morehead State, where he averaged an identical 22.4 points and 10.1 rebounds per game in his fifth college season. Unfortunately, Minix only played 3 games in the G-League last season after tearing his labrum a week after the start of their season.

He shot an impressive 43.8% from three on 5.3 3-point attempts and averaged 12.7 points in his short G-League stint. That may have slowed his development, but he can still fill a role on this team.

Can Riley Minix make the Spurs' main roster?

Minix made an impression on former Spurs coach Gregg Popovich during last year's training camp, and it's easy to see why.

He is a smart player who knows how to get open on offense when his defender isn't paying close enough attention. That can be especially useful given his shooting ability.

He is a strong 3-point shooter who has a long track record as an above-average high-volume bomber. He can also put the ball on the floor and score some in the mid-range, and he was especially effective in the post in college. That may not be his role in the NBA, but it's an intriguing skill set for him to have.

Minix is also a strong rebounder for his size at 6-7. Particularly on the offensive glass, he was able to secure easy buckets by swooping in for second-chance opportunities. However, his defense remains uncertain. Even so, his shooting ability is extremely valuable, especially to the Spurs, who have very little shooting on their roster.

Riley Minix would give the Spurs much-needed shooting

With three open roster spots, the Spurs may bring back Charles Bassey or Bismack Biyombo, giving them a third center. With the final two roster spots, they could use one for Minix and keep the other spot open.

With a strong Summer League performance, he could earn a multi-year contract, giving the Spurs a much-needed shooter for cheap.

All in all, Minix has the tools to be a useful player in the NBA. Given that the Spurs have roster spots available and a need for more shooting, he has a strong chance to make the main roster.