Victor Wembanyama will share the Spurs' locker room with veteran forward Tobias Harris after the 33‑year‑old signed a two‑year contract on July 5, 2026. The deal gives San Antonio a proven scorer and a versatile big man to complement Wembanyama’s unprecedented skill set, signaling the franchise’s intent to compete early in the season.
What happened?
The Spurs announced the signing of Harris, a former NBA All‑Star who spent the last three seasons with the Philadelphia 76ers. The contract runs through the 2027‑28 season and includes a player‑option for the second year. Harris will report to training camp on September 30, joining a roster that already features the 19‑year‑old French star, who was selected first overall in the 2023 draft.
Why it matters for Victor Wembanyama
Wembanyama entered the league with a steep learning curve, and the addition of a seasoned scorer like Harris offers immediate mentorship on positioning, post moves, and reading defenses. Harris averaged 15.2 points and 6.3 rebounds per game last season, providing a reliable offensive outlet when the rookie is still adjusting to NBA pace. Their combined size—Wembanyama at 7‑4 with a 7‑5 wingspan and Harris at 6‑8—creates a unique frontcourt that can stretch the floor and dominate the paint.
How will the Spurs use them?
Head coach Gregg Popovich hinted that the duo will feature in a “dual‑big” system, alternating between pick‑and‑rolls and high‑low actions. Harris’ ability to step out for mid‑range jumpers will pull opposing centers away, opening lanes for Wembanyama’s shot‑blocking and rim‑running. Early practice reports suggest the pair already displayed chemistry, with Harris feeding the ball to Wembanyama for alley‑oop finishes during scrimmages.
What comes next?
The Spurs’ front office expects Harris to start the season as a starter, while Wembanyama will see increased minutes as the rookie gains confidence. The team’s schedule kicks off on October 25 against the Dallas Mavericks, a matchup that will test the new frontcourt against a veteran‑heavy lineup. If the pairing clicks, San Antonio could close the gap with Western Conference powerhouses much sooner than projected.
Bottom line: The Harris‑Wembanyama combo gives the Spurs a blend of experience and raw talent that could reshape their early‑season trajectory. Fans will be watching closely to see if the veteran’s steady hand can accelerate the French phenom’s rise to stardom.