Why Pat Spencer passed up opportunities with other NBA teams to rejoin Warriors originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area
Pat Spencer is fueling the injury-stricken Warriors with fiery performances, all while playing under a two-way contract.
In the offseason, Spencer had opportunities to sign with other teams which would have given him an easier path to a roster spot, but opted to rejoin the Warriors, he said Tuesday in an interview with 95.7 The Game’s “Steiny and Guru.”
“Ultimately, I just have a belief in the group that we had at the end of last year,” Spencer said. “I truly enjoy playing for [coach] Steve [Kerr] and competing with him, and just love the group we have in the locker room. And so, it felt like too good of an opportunity to pass up on.”
Spencer, 29, made his NBA debut with the Warriors in the 2023-24 season after he signed a two-way contract in February. Last season, he played in 39 regular-season games, averaging 2.5 points per game. Golden State converted him to a regular contract in March, allowing him to play eight NBA playoff games for the Warriors as well.
His familiarity with the Warriors and developing a relationship with the team were big reasons why he returned on a two-way contract this season.
“Built some real momentum in the playoffs last year, felt like I gained the trust of the veterans in the locker room and much of this staff,” Spencer said. “I’m a believer in people first and foremost. So, just makes sense for me to be back here and give this thing a run one more time.”
Spencer’s play time has increased as the Warriors wait for Steph Curry to return from injury. In the last two games, he made his first two career starts.
With his jump in play time, his production has jumped as well. In his last four games, Spencer has averaged 16.0 points and 5.7 assists per game, leading the team in both categories in that span.
Spencer said playing in Golden State’s system among all-time greats like Curry was another big reason for his return.
“You look at our top-tier guy [Curry], he’s probably someone who runs five miles a game moving off the ball, draws a ton of attention… and quite frankly, it’s won us four championships here,” Spencer said. “It’s something that attracted me to come here. I feel like I can utilize my IQ on and off the ball to play off some obviously incredible hall-of-famers.”
As a two-way player, Spencer is limited to 50 games as an active player. With 17 games played already, the Warriors might have to convert Spencer to a regular contract if they continue to need his fire throughout the season.
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