Spurs Waive A Player Everyone Had High Hopes For Just 3 Weeks Ago

 

The Spurs and their fans had high hopes that Salim Stoudamire would bring some of his sharpshooting skills to San Antonio after the Silver and Black signed away the guard from the Atlanta Hawks a few weeks ago.

Instead, Stoudamire struggled through training camp with two strained groin injuries and had little impact once he made it to the floor for a pre-season look.

Earlier in the week, coach Gregg Popovich gave Stoudamire credit for giving it his all despite the physical setbacks.

"He did a good job for sitting all this time and not being able to get out on the court," said Popovich. "It takes some time to adjust to any system. He's done a good job of paying attention while sitting on the sidelines."

While the Spurs have not officially alerted the press about Stoudamire's cut, it was obvious to those in the locker room that the former Arizona Wildcat was on his way out of San Antonio. He was seen saying goodbye to several teammates and told some that he would try to bounce back physically in hopes of landing on an NBA roster soon.

The Spurs have one of the most difficult roster cuts coming as they prepare to dismiss at least three more players. Some say one of the final spots is up for grabs between either Desmon Farmer or Malik Hairston.

Farmer has played well during the pre-season and has shown he can put the ball in the hole equally off dribble drives or from long distance. Hairston has played good defense and created opportunities both offensively and with some impressive hustle plays.

Both players have brought incredible energy and have reacted well to instruction and some of Popovich's coaching adjustments.

"We've got several guys who are doing a great job," Popovich said. "And it's going to make our decisions very difficult. A lot of effort. A lot of understanding. All great teammates, so it's going to be very difficult. Harder than it has been in a long time."

For his part, Hairston says he's happy with what he's been able to show the Spurs.

"All you can do is ask for a chance," Hairston said. "And I think coach Pop and the players have given me a great opportunity. I think I've been able to do some things in terms of training camp and our pre-season games, so I'm enjoying the experience and just making the best of it."

More about this topic at SpursReport.Com.