The UConn product struggled with his shot, but his gritty rebounding and elite screening proved he is ready to anchor San Antonio's physical new twin-tower era.
The NBA is evolving.
Just as we all witnessed Stephen Curry change the game over 10 years ago with his playstyle, another shift is hitting the league — one in which double-big lineups will be key to future success.
Recognizing this movement while desiring to add more physicality, the San Antonio Spurs added Jayden Quaintaince and Tarris Reed Jr. in the 2026 NBA Draft in an attempt to find a strong frontcourt mate for Victor Wembanyama.
On Friday, Reed made his NBA Summer League debut in the California Classic just 10 days removed from being the 26th overall selection.
The UConn product struggled offensively, converting just three of his 10 field-goal attempts and finishing with 10 points. That's an aspect of Reed's game that will adapt to the pro level with time.
“I think a lot of it is shaking off rust, maybe some jitters,” Spurs Summer League coach Corliss Williamson said postgame. “You finally make it to the NBA, you’re missing some of the chippy shots that you’re capable of making.”
But Reed's impact without the ball in his hands cannot be overstated.
Just as he did as a Husky, Reed controlled the boards en route to seven rebounds while erasing a layup attempt from Miami Heat guard Trevor Keels.
The 22-year-old also displayed one of his more underrated elite traits ... his screening ability.
And that aspect of Reed's game is exactly why his inefficient premiere isn't a cause for concern.
He's not meant to be a superstar — nor does San Antonio need him to try and be one. Reed's primary responsibility ... especially when he's sharing the floor with Wembanyama... is to do the dirty work.
Block shots. Set crushing screens. Control the glass. Those are the jobs the Spurs traded back into the first round for Reed to do.
And as San Antonio's fan base likely remembers all too well from Wembanyama's summer league debut — the first game is never a true indicator of the kind of impact a player can have.
While Quaintance continues to rehab from a torn ACL and meniscus, Reed will have every opportunity to anchor San Antonio's Summer League frontcourt — giving him plenty of time to shed the "rust" Williamson believes contributed to his debut performance.
