Selected 10th overall in the 2025 NBA Draft by the San Antonio Spurs, Carter Bryant initially seemed like a developmental prospect. Through his strong defensive play in the NBA Summer League, Bryant earned time on San Antonio’s roster during the first half of the 2025-2026 season. Despite early struggles including missed dunks, errant three-point shots, and defensive lapses, Bryant gradually improved, showcasing the potential that Spurs coach Mitch Johnson believed in.
Johnson’s confidence in Bryant paid off as the young forward completed a remarkable turnaround, now emerging as a reliable contributor as the Spurs push toward the playoffs. The team’s playoff chances have gained momentum, driven in part by Bryant’s progress and growing consistency on both ends of the floor.
“They’re not freshmen or rookies anymore … We’re starting to look for them to show some growth and make less repeatable mistakes.” The Spurs’ playoff push is ready for liftoff, and Mitch Johnson expects Dylan Harper and Carter Bryant to be part of it. – Jeff McDonald, Sportswriter
How Bryant’s Emergence Affected Team Dynamics
Bryant’s rapid development has had significant consequences for the Spurs’ roster decisions, most notably affecting former player Jeremy Sochan. Many anticipated Sochan would evolve into a key piece, but he ultimately failed to secure a spot, falling out of the rotation and eventually being waived. Bryant’s ascent solidified Sochan’s departure and strengthened San Antonio’s hope that Bryant fits perfectly within their young core.
Since returning from a brief NBA G-League assignment, Bryant has displayed newfound confidence and poise on offense. He understands when to make strategic cuts and is now more willing to take open shots. On defense, Bryant shows improved discipline, no longer overcommitting on passing lanes or chasing pump fakes excessively. His length and athleticism have translated into impactful defense, with multiple recent games highlighting his ability to disrupt opposing offenses.
Specific Strengths Bryant Brings to the Spurs
One of Bryant’s impressive defensive skills includes his effectiveness in navigating screens, which limits opponents’ chances to create separation. This has helped him accumulate an unexpected number of blocks and steals in recent contests. Offensively, Bryant’s shooting has also improved markedly, sinking 44.8% of his 4.1 attempted three-pointers per game over his last seven appearances.
Those earlier missed dunks are rare now, outside of exceptions such as the NBA Dunk Contest. Bryant is proving to be a versatile threat who excels in transition, cuts to the basket, and can even comfortably play power forward when needed. This multifaceted ability aligns well with what the Spurs require from their roster to compete effectively.
The team’s endorsement of Bryant over Sochan underscores their belief that he is better suited to their style and long-term strategy. While hindsight showed Johnson’s vision for Bryant more clearly than for Sochan, the Spurs are now reaping the benefits of that decision as the season progresses.
“They’re not freshmen or rookies anymore … We’re starting to look for them to show some growth and make less repeatable mistakes.”
The Spurs' playoff push is ready for liftoff, and Mitch Johnson expects Dylan Harper and Carter Bryant to be part of it.https://t.co/avMmqdkJB6
— Jeff McDonald (@JMcDonald_SAEN) February 19, 2026
