Though he was traded in the heart of the NBA Free Agency period, Harrison Barnes says he had choices. He then added that joining the San Antonio Spurs was a no-brainer.
The eleven-year NBA veteran acknowledged that a trade clause in his contract may have an impact on whether or not it was waived.
Harrison Barnes talks up San Antonio
When talking about his ability to decline a transfer from the Sacramento Kings to San Antonio, Barnes went into further depth.
The trade kicker turned into more of a play than I had anticipated with the new CBA. The chance to simply come here and, as I mentioned, be able to play for Pop and with this bunch is thrilling, the University of North Carolina alumnus added.
“In our league, things take time to develop, and having a recipe for success is essential for being good. The Spurs have, in my opinion, been among the hardest teams I have ever faced throughout the years. In every aspect, they’ve been a first-rate organization,” Barnes added.
A Dallas Maverick for over two and a half seasons, the 32-year-old began his career with the Golden State Warriors before spending the last four seasons in Sacramento.
“Competing against the Spurs for a number of years, I have the utmost respect for this franchise and everything that they’ve accomplished,” Barnes praised the Spurs before discussing the current roster and its Hall of Fame head coach.
“The opportunity to play for Pop [Gregg Popovich], having some World Cup experience with him. He’s a character,” Barnes recalled about Popovich’s time as the head coach of USA Basketball.
“Just excited to be here with this group, obviously coming in with CP [Chris Paul],” Barnes continued, referencing his fellow major Spurs off-season acquisition.
“We’re going to be two of the older guys in the locker room, but just getting a chance to talk to some of the guys here, there’s good energy, good excitement, so I’m looking forward to it,” Barnes said.
Paul is 39 years old. Their most well-known new teammate is 20 and is coming off one of the best rookie seasons in recent NBA history. The Spurs front office prioritized surrounding generational talent Victor Wembanyama with veteran help, and it’s equally important for Barnes to play with Wemby.
“He definitely was a part of it [Barnes’ decision]. He’s a great young player in this league, definitely on his way to being one of the best. He was a big part of it, but it’s the collective overall.”
“It’s the organization, it’s the people on the team. Since I landed, the warmth I’ve felt from every single person in this building, in an authentic way.”
With a newly recruited forward who seems eager to assist, the team and its supporters are getting closer to contention.