Spurs’ Blake Wesley learning the ins and outs of the NBA in the G League
The rookie campaign for Blake Wesley has had its ups and downs, but the 25th pick isn’t letting that prevent him from having a productive season with the San Antonio Spurs.
Wesley was a healthy scratch from the lineup in each of the Spurs’ first five games. He was then called upon for his first extended run on Oct. 28 versus Chicago and responded by recording 10 points and four assists in a five-point win.
Just as things were trending up, Wesley suffered a setback.
Two nights later against Minnesota, Wesley appeared to bang knees with Jaden McDaniels after eight minutes of action. He was diagnosed with a Grade 3 sprained left MCL and eventually missed six weeks before gaining clearance to play again.
“It was frustrating,” Wesley told Rookie Wire. “Injuries happen and there were a lot of mental things I went through but at the same time, I got better from it and I’m back now.”
Wesley returned from the injury on Dec. 16 and joined the Austin Spurs for a rehab assignment in the G League. He produced 12 points, three rebounds, one assist and one steal in a loss on the road against the Mexico City Capitanes. He then traveled with Austin to the G League Winter Showcase in Las Vegas, totaling 32 points, five assists, three steals and three blocks in two appearances.
He was placed on a minute restriction upon returning but thought those minutes with Austin were highly beneficial in getting back into the swing of things.
“I played my first game in Mexico City, which was a bummer from the (high) altitude but at the same time, it got me ready for Las Vegas because I wasn’t that tired,” Wesley said. “I had fun down there and enjoyed playing with the guys.”
Wesley is coming off his best outing with Austin, recording a season-high 21 points on 7-of-16 shooting from the field. He looked to be in control throughout the contest and showcased his shooting, going 3-of-4 from 3-point range.
Easy money! 💸💸💸@blakewesley0 pic.twitter.com/PTBH9dN8xQ
— Austin Spurs (@austin_spurs) December 30, 2022
Playing in the G League enables Wesley to learn the different sets and coverages that will be used in the NBA since Austin deploys a similar system as San Antonio.
That is helping the learning curve for Wesley.
There is a lot I still don’t know that I’m learning and seeing out there. It is good for me to see stuff out there and then watch film so that’s why film is a big part of it. We kind of run the same thing, just a couple of different defenses so it is mostly the same thing, which is good for me so I can do both.
His recent time with Austin will certainly prepare him to rejoin San Antonio. He showed in a limited run that he can contribute when called upon and the 19-year-old will be looking to show off that ability again when the time comes.
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