Spurs Trade Up Into NBA Draft's First Round For Uconn 'Traditional Center' Tarris Reed

The San Antonio Spurs, after picking Kentucky product Jayden Quaintance with the No. 20 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, followed that up with a trade to bring another big body to The Alamo City.

Tarris Reed is headed to the Spurs, who traded up from the No. 35 slot to select him with the 26th overall pick in this draft.

The Nuggets are reportedly acquiring two additional second-round picks (Minnesota’s 2028 pick and Sacramento’s 2031 selection) along with No. 35 in the deal.

Reed played for Michigan for two years before transferring to UConn in 2024 for his final two college seasons.

The 6-11 big man - considered by scouts to be a "traditional center'' - became a full-time starter as a senior, averaging 14.7 points, 9.0 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 2.0 blocks in 27.3 minutes per game in 35 appearances.

Reed, who turns 23 in August, had an impressive tournament showing for UConn, posting four double-doubles, including a 31-point 27-rebound performance in the opening round vs. Furman.

He'll get a chance for a backup role here behind superstar Victor Wembanyama.

Meanwhile, standing at 6-foot-10, Quaintance brings Defensive Player of the Year-type upside to San Antonio's young core. During his lone season at Kentucky, he showcased his ability to protect the rim and defend in space, making him an intriguing fit for the title-hopeful Spurs. ... who just added two big bodies to the roster mix.