San Antonio Spurs rookie guard Ja’Kobi Gillespie is turning heads with his shooting and poise. The second-round pick out of Tennessee showed off his skills during the preseason, averaging 14 points and knocking down half of his three-pointers. Veteran Harrison Barnes was quick to notice his shot early on in practice, saying, “He’s shooting that thing a little bit.” Gillespie even sank twelve straight deep shots in a practice contest, impressing the coaching staff and veterans like Jordan McLaughlin. McLaughlin, who has taken the rookie under his wing, praises his quick release, arc, and toughness, noting he fits in perfectly. Coach Mitch Johnson loves his quiet confidence and aggressiveness, saying he has a great way about him for a two-way contract player. Gillespie credits his shooting foundation to his father and brothers, who pushed him in shooting games back home in Greeneville, Tennessee, as well as his high school and college coaches who toughened him up. He’s soaking up the playbook and leaning on veterans like McLaughlin and De’Aaron Fox as he adjusts to the speed of the NBA. The Spurs have a solid track record of finding gems in the second round, and Gillespie seems determined to join that list.
