Spurs Notes: Arena, Sochan, Waters, Olynyk, Castle
The Spurs made progress Tuesday on their plan for a new downtown arena in San Antonio. Voters in Bexar County, Texas, approved a measure allowing officials to allocate up to $311 million from venue taxes toward funding the arena, according to Tim Reynolds of The Associated Press.
Despite opposition from some local lawmakers and advocacy groups, just over 52% of voters supported the initiative, county officials reported. The Spurs are ready to invest at least $500 million toward the arena’s construction, with $489 million proposed to come from the city’s funds, per Reynolds.
The total cost of the arena is estimated at $1.3 billion. The project is still in its early stages, and no construction timeline has been set. The Spurs' current lease at Frost Bank Center lasts until 2032.
Player Updates
- Stephon Castle: Considered a keeper for the Spurs’ roster.
- Wemby and Harper: Along with Castle, they form the core nucleus of the team.
- Vassel: Valued as a perfect role player with three-point shooting and defensive skills.
- Fox: Could be used as trade bait if the Spurs decide to pursue deals.
- Atlanta draft pick: Seen as a valuable addition, potentially the “icing on the cake.”
"Castle is a keeper. Wemby and Harper round out that trio of a nucleus. Vassel is a perfect role player with 3 & D skills. Fox can be trade bait if they choose to do so, and the Atlanta draft pick may be the icing on the cake."
Author's summary: The Spurs have gained voter approval for significant arena funding and continue to build a promising team core featuring Castle, Wemby, Harper, and skilled role players.