De Colo looking to earn opportunity

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Nando De Colo's rookie season has been an up and down one so far. He's been shuffled around and hasn't been getting as many minutes as he'd probably like.

DSan Antonio Express Newse Colo's misfortune comes from the team having an abundance in point guards and guys who can play the point guard position. With Tony Parker commanding the majority of the minutes at point and Patrick Mills eclipsing Gary Neal for the backup spot, De Colo seems to be the odd man out for now unless a string of injures happen.

Even then, you have Manu Ginobili who can fill in those duties off the bench when he's on the court.

The great news for San Antonio Spurs fans is that he's not letting that effect his confidence or determination. In fact, you could say it's fueling him. He knows that a starting role is unlikely with the Spurs playing great basketball on both sides of the floor with their balanced attack, but a backup role of some kind is something he knows is realistic.

In an interview with Cholet.maville.com, Nando speaks about possibly being the leader of the second unit.

This second leadership role is something that I can assume in any case. Coach Popovich has really oiled systems in attack as in defense. He and the three stars have known for ten years, just like the rest of the staff, so it doesn't change from one day to the next. It's hard, but my goal is to gain playing time, it is clear.

De Colo knowing he has to work hard for his spot is a testament to his character. We've seen many players from different teams complain either about playing time or getting benched, but the Spurs seem to find ways to find players with a high level of respect for the team and the game.

Although Nando isn't earning a lot of minutes right now, the playoff rotation is far from set and he can easily earn his spot from now until then. His game on the court is similar to Manu Ginobili and they both have a knack for fitting in with every player on the roster.

If he can keep impressing the organization with his play and his humbleness, it won't be long until we see "Mini-Manu" (as he's been called) give us some highlights during games consistently.