Spurs throw former second-round pick one last life vest he must catch

The Spurs have extended a qualifying offer to Harrison Ingram, making him a restricted free agent and all but confirming he’ll be back with the team next season. Interestingly, it’s a standard contract offer, not a two-way one, which is notable considering Ingram spent his first two years in the league on a two-way.

Ingram’s role with the Spurs has been minimal since he got drafted in 2024. This qualifying offer is a vote of confidence in him from the front office, but it could be the last chance he’ll get. The young forward needs to show signs of growth in his third season, or he might run out of time in the NBA.

Harrison Ingram still has a lot to prove for the Spurs

As a rookie with the Silver and Black, Ingram appeared in five contests, logging 7.0 minutes and 0.8 points per game. In 2025-26, his sophomore campaign, he played seven games, averaging just 3.7 minutes and 1.6 points.

Fifty-five of the 58 2024 NBA Draft picks have suited up for at least one game thus far (the other three are stashed overseas). Ingram ranks 52nd in total minutes, falling ahead of just Ulrich Chomche, Tristen Newton, and Anton Watson. He’s even been lapped by Nikola Topic and DaRon Holmes, two guys who missed entire seasons with injuries.

Simply put, the former 48th pick has made no imprint on the Spurs so far in his career. It’s not fully his fault; he hasn’t been given anything close to real playing time, which is partially on the coaching staff. But it’s also Ingram’s responsibility to prove he’s worth putting on the court.

Ingram has shown signs of life in the G League. This past season, he averaged 16.7 points, 12.1 rebounds, and 4.7 assists. At the NBA level, though, he’s a total mystery box right now.

Ingram is about to have a real make-or-break year

There’s no reason to completely write off Ingram at this point. Sure, he hasn’t done anything noteworthy for the Spurs, but he was a quality prospect. He’s just 23 years old, and, as mentioned, he’s been productive in the G.

In theory, Ingram is the type of rotation forward San Antonio needs off their bench. He has the makings of a tough defender with a good feel for the game and a steady spot-up three-ball. The Harrison Barnes role could be Ingram’s when the Black Falcon eventually leaves.

But that's all hypothetical for now. For Ingram, the upcoming year will be all about proving the front office right for believing in him for so long. If he can’t, his career could come to a premature end.

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