On a draft night trade that sent San Antonio Spurs fan favorite George Hill back home to Indiana, the Spurs inherited not only the rights to soon-to-be rookie Kawhi Leonard, but Slovenian player Erazem Lorbek as well.
Lorbek was drafted by the Pacers in 2005 but was never able to be brought to the NBA. Now that his rights are owned by the Spurs, the idea of joining the team in the future is more interesting said Lorbek.
“Now that San Antonio has my rights, the NBA option is more interesting,” he admits.
But with the NBA currently in an on-going lockout, it’s unknown if basketball could return today or this year at all. For now, Lorbek is happy playing overseas.
“For the moment I’m happy to be in a big team in Europe and play to win everything.”
Lorbek had very consistent production over the fall in the FIBA Eurobasket where he played against NBA level talent and still made an impact. With the Spurs still missing some needed height and size in the front line outside of Tim Duncan and Tiago Splitter, Lorbek could be an option after next year since this season is predicted to be a shortened season should there be a season at all.
However, he will remain in Europe for at least another season making and at the same time he will be older and be carrying more mileage. But should he decide to make the leap to the NBA, he might be a serviceable player for San Antonio. He is currently averaging 17 points, 4 rebounds, shooting 72% from the field in 25 minutes for Regal FC Barcelona in three games.
What do you have to say Spurs fans? Think he will ever be wearing the silver and black?
