Spurs linked to move to pair young stars with international player from Baylor
San Antonio Eyes Another International Gem to Bolster Young Core
The San Antonio Spurs organization has never been one to rest on its laurels, even as the franchise begins to turn the corner with its current roster. While the 2025-26 NBA season is in full swing, the front office is reportedly already evaluating the landscape for the 2026 NBA Draft. With a treasure trove of future draft capital and a clear mandate to build a dynasty around Victor Wembanyama, the Spurs are being linked to a high-motor prospect who fits their historical affinity for international talent.
According to a recent projection by Bleacher Report’s Jonathan Wasserman, San Antonio has its sights set on Baylor Bears freshman Tounde Yessoufou. The connection is hardly surprising given the Spurs' scouting patterns; the franchise has long prioritized versatility and character, two traits that Yessoufou has displayed in abundance during his early collegiate career. Hailing from Benin, West Africa, the 6-foot-5 wing has quickly established himself as one of the most physically imposing players in the Big 12, drawing attention for his relentless energy and defensive upside.
Wasserman notes that NBA scouts are particularly enamored with Yessoufou’s "strength, athleticism, and motor," viewing him as a high-floor prospect capable of contributing immediately on the defensive end. While his perimeter shooting remains a work in progress, his ability to generate easy offense through hustle and transition play has drawn comparisons to Houston Rockets wing Cam Whitmore. For a Spurs team looking to insulate Wembanyama and sophomore guard Stephon Castle with rugged defenders, Yessoufou represents an ideal schematic fit.
The potential selection would also continue a specific pipeline for San Antonio. The Spurs have found success with Baylor products before, most notably Jeremy Sochan, whose defensive versatility has become a staple of Gregg Popovich’s rotation. Pairing Yessoufou with the current young core would give San Antonio a terrifying level of length and athleticism on the wing. As the Spurs navigate the season, their stockpile of draft assets—including rights involving the Atlanta Hawks' picks—ensures they will have the flexibility to make this "move" a reality come June.
The San Antonio Spurs organization has never been one to rest on its laurels, even as the franchise begins to turn the corner with its current roster. While the 2025-26 NBA season is in full swing, the front office is reportedly already evaluating the landscape for the 2026 NBA Draft. With a treasure trove of future draft capital and a clear mandate to build a dynasty around Victor Wembanyama, the Spurs are being linked to a high-motor prospect who fits their historical affinity for international talent.
According to a recent projection by Bleacher Report’s Jonathan Wasserman, San Antonio has its sights set on Baylor Bears freshman Tounde Yessoufou. The connection is hardly surprising given the Spurs' scouting patterns; the franchise has long prioritized versatility and character, two traits that Yessoufou has displayed in abundance during his early collegiate career. Hailing from Benin, West Africa, the 6-foot-5 wing has quickly established himself as one of the most physically imposing players in the Big 12, drawing attention for his relentless energy and defensive upside.
Wasserman notes that NBA scouts are particularly enamored with Yessoufou’s "strength, athleticism, and motor," viewing him as a high-floor prospect capable of contributing immediately on the defensive end. While his perimeter shooting remains a work in progress, his ability to generate easy offense through hustle and transition play has drawn comparisons to Houston Rockets wing Cam Whitmore. For a Spurs team looking to insulate Wembanyama and sophomore guard Stephon Castle with rugged defenders, Yessoufou represents an ideal schematic fit.
The potential selection would also continue a specific pipeline for San Antonio. The Spurs have found success with Baylor products before, most notably Jeremy Sochan, whose defensive versatility has become a staple of Gregg Popovich’s rotation. Pairing Yessoufou with the current young core would give San Antonio a terrifying level of length and athleticism on the wing. As the Spurs navigate the season, their stockpile of draft assets—including rights involving the Atlanta Hawks' picks—ensures they will have the flexibility to make this "move" a reality come June.
