Game one of the NBA Western Conference finals is in the books and it was an instant classic. The San Antonio Spurs stole game one against the Oklahoma City Thunder, in double overtime, 122-115 behind a 41-point, 24-rebound performance from Victor Wembanyama.
OWembanyama’s performance will forever be talked about but what will be overlooked is the 14 critical minutes that rookie Carter Bryant played.
To most people, the former Arizona Wildcat’s stats aren’t eye opening, but it’s the stuff that doesn’t show up on the statsheet that he gave. The constant pressure that Bryant applied on NBA MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander forced tough shots and did not allow him to find an offensive rhythm.
Bryant finished the game with just three points, two rebounds, and one assist but every single play came in crucial moments. That’s been his story all postseason.
When Wembanyama was unavailable for Game 3 of the first round series against the Portland Trailblazers, Bryant became the de facto backup center. He played 23 minutes and again only scored three points, but secured six rebounds with four assists and three blocks.
Bryant’s stats are not flashy but the effort and energy that he brings onto the court is what makes the difference. His career high at Arizona was 14 points on two separate occasions and his current career high with the Spurs is 17.
For most players in the association, those career highs would not suffice. However, being with an organization like the Spurs gives him an abundant amount of time to develop where he can eventually earn a larger role in what they are trying to accomplish.
All San Antonio is asking of him right now is to make plays where he can and limit the mistakes, which again is very similar to what Tommy Lloyd asked him to do at Arizona. Up to this point he has done that.
Moving forward, Bryant will still be a key to San Antonio’s current championship hopes. His development will need to show and the experience he will gain will only help that development continue.
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