Tarris Reed gives the Spurs the backup plan they lacked last season

October 15, 2026

The San Antonio Spurs entered the offseason searching for a reliable backup center after a season of injuries and inconsistent depth at the position. Their solution came in the form of Tarris Reed Jr., a 6’11”, 265-pound rookie with four years of college experience, including two at UConn under Dan Hurley.

Reed’s preseason performances have been eye-catching, averaging 5.5 points, 9.5 rebounds, and a block per game while showcasing elite defensive potential. In a standout outing against the Utah Jazz, he pulled down 17 rebounds in 24 minutes, including seven in a span of just 90 seconds, demonstrating his ability to dominate the boards and protect the rim.

The Spurs, who lost Victor Wembanyama to injury and saw Luke Kornet’s playoff struggles, appear to have found a versatile big man who could provide immediate impact—even if Jayden Quaintance’s development remains on hold due to knee surgery. Reed’s blend of size, maturity, and defensive prowess has already positioned him as a key piece in San Antonio’s long-term plans at center.