Second-round steal Ja’Kobi Gillespie dazzled in Las Vegas, showcasing elite efficiency and deep range to outshine the No. 2 pick and solidify his future in the Spurs' backcourt.
It’s difficult not to get excited when a San Antonio Spurs second-round pick begins showing flashes — especially considering the franchise once found Manu Ginobili at No. 57.
Ja’Kobi Gillespie provided plenty of reason for excitement against the Utah Jazz on Wednesday night.
Gillespie, the No. 42 pick of the 2026 NBA Draft, dazzled in Las Vegas, outdueling the No. 2 pick, Darryn Peterson, as the Spurs dispatched of the Utah Jazz, 94-82.
In contrast to Peterson ... Gillespie was highly efficient, converting 10 of his 21 shot attempts en route to a 25-point, five-assist effort. Gillespie also added two steals to round out his stellar performance.
Through four appearances, Gillespie is averaging 16 points and 4.3 assists per game — early evidence that the Spurs may have uncovered another future contributor in their 2026 draft class.
Following his senior campaign at Tennessee, Gillespie was viewed as a capable scorer with a quick release and limitless range. He handles the ball well in isolation and possesses a crafty floater package to rely on when defenders overcompensate for his three-point shooting ability.
Gillespie shot 33.8% from deep during his final collegiate season, but if his 3-of-8 performance against Utah is an indication of meaningful improvement, San Antonio may have an even stronger foundation to build upon than initially expected.
Much like UNC product and former South Bay Laker RJ Davis, Gillespie's battle to find opportunities on the Spurs' active roster could be difficult.
San Antonio and head coach Mitch Johnson already face a difficult decision with three star-level guards in Stephon Castle, Dylan Harper and De’Aaron Fox, leaving little room for additional backcourt depth.
However, unlike the Spurs' 2024 class, 2026's group looks to be primed to produce more than simply one impact player.
Tarris Reed Jr. already looks like the perfect frontcourt mate for Victor Wembanyama.
Jayden Quaintance should be able to provide similar physicality to Reed next to Wembanyama.
Maliq Brown appears to be a strong rebounder capable of filling in for any of San Antonio's bigs despite his 6-foot-9 frame.
And of course, Gillespie's offensive skill could eventually cement him as a true spark plug off the bench, helping to alleviate some of the scoring pressure from reigning Sixth Man of the Year Keldon Johnson.
Finding minutes won't be easy, but performances like Wednesday’s will make Gillespie increasingly difficult for Coach Johnson to keep off the floor.
