Spurs Waive Jeremy Sochan: Free Agency Awaits
In a surprising twist to the NBA's ongoing roster shuffle, the San Antonio Spurs have waived forward Jeremy Sochan, the ninth overall pick from the 2022 draft, effectively making him an unrestricted free agent. The move, announced on February 12, 2026, comes just after the trade deadline where multiple teams expressed interest but no deal materialized. For Australian basketball fans tuning into the NBA's global stage, this development adds another layer of intrigue to a league that's always evolving.
Background on Jeremy Sochan's Spurs Journey
Jeremy Sochan burst onto the NBA scene with promise, selected ninth by the Spurs in a draft class headlined by talents like Chet Holmgren and Jaden Ivey. The Southampton, England-born forward, who honed his skills playing for Baylor University, quickly made his mark. In his rookie season, Sochan earned a spot on the All-Rookie First Team, showcasing elite defensive versatility and a fearless offensive mindset. Standing at 6'8" with a wiry frame, he became a key piece in the Spurs' rebuild around young stars like Victor Wembanyama.
Over his first three seasons, Sochan averaged around 12 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 steals per game, often tasked with guarding the opponent's best wing players. His highlight-reel dunks and ability to switch on defense drew comparisons to players like Draymond Green. However, as the Spurs' roster deepened with the addition of rookies and veterans, Sochan's role began to shrink. Since January 7, 2026, he has logged meaningful minutes in just two games, a stark contrast to his earlier prominence.
Key Stats and Highlights
Sochan's career numbers reflect a player with untapped potential: 11.8 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 2.4 APG, and a defensive rating of 108.2. One of his most memorable moments came in a recent game where he slammed home a powerful dunk, underscoring his athleticism. Yet, his three-point shooting (around 30% career) has been a point of criticism, limiting his offensive fit in San Antonio's spacing-heavy system.
The Waiver: What Led to This Decision?
The waiver stems from a combination of factors, primarily the rapid rise of rookie forward Carter Bryant, drafted 14th overall in 2025. Bryant has emerged as a two-way force, hitting 40% from beyond the arc in his last two outings while adding steals and blocks to his resume. With limited minutes to go around in the Spurs' frontcourt, head coach Mitch Johnson had to make tough choices. Sochan, despite his defensive prowess, found himself outside the rotation.
Sources from ESPN's Shams Charania indicate that trade discussions heated up at the deadline, but valuation gaps prevented a deal. The Spurs, focused on integrating Wembanyama and building around Bryant's upside, opted to waive Sochan rather than let him languish on the bench. This move saves San Antonio roughly $5 million in salary cap space, providing flexibility for future acquisitions.
Coach and Player Reactions
Coach Johnson praised Sochan's professionalism in the lead-up to a victory over the Los Angeles Lakers. "He's been our defensive disruptor and a versatile offensive piece," Johnson said. "Jeremy's handled this with class, coming to work every day as a great teammate. Opportunities in this league don't always come when you expect them."
Sochan himself opened up about the challenges. "I'm not going to lie – it's been tough," the 22-year-old admitted. "Four years in the league, and this is the first time I've faced something like this. But I have to remember who I am. Keep working, stay positive, and the light will come." His resilience echoes the mindset of many young athletes navigating the NBA's cutthroat landscape.
What's Next for Jeremy Sochan?
As a free agent, Sochan is poised to attract interest from contending teams needing defensive wings. Rumors swirl around squads like the Boston Celtics, who could use his switchability alongside Jayson Tatum, or the Denver Nuggets for depth behind Aaron Gordon. Even rebuilding teams like the Detroit Pistons might see him as a cornerstone. With his youth and international appeal – particularly resonant in Australia, where NBL stars often transition to the NBA – Sochan could land in a role that maximizes his strengths.
Analysts predict a multi-year deal in the $10-15 million range annually, given his pedigree. His ability to guard multiple positions (1-4) remains a premium skill in today's pace-and-space era. However, improving his perimeter shot will be crucial for any suitor. For Spurs fans, this is bittersweet; Sochan contributed to their culture of grit, but the franchise's youth movement demands tough decisions.
Broadening the NBA Context
This waiver fits into a larger narrative of NBA flux post-trade deadline. Teams like the Spurs are prioritizing high-upside youth, as seen in power rankings where San Antonio climbs despite the loss. Meanwhile, fines for on-court scuffles (e.g., Hawks' Gueye and Wolves' Reid) and stars like Wembanyama dropping 40 points highlight the league's intensity. Sochan's story is a reminder: talent alone isn't enough; fit and timing matter.
Australian audiences, with growing NBA fandom fueled by stars like Josh Giddey, will watch closely. Sochan's journey from European roots to potential stardom elsewhere underscores the global nature of basketball. As free agency unfolds, expect Sochan to choose a path that reignites his career trajectory.
In summary, Jeremy Sochan's waiver marks the end of one chapter and the start of an exciting new one. The NBA's free agent market is heating up, and this versatile forward is ready to make waves wherever he lands.
