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Before De’Aaron Fox ever became the San Antonio Spurs point guard, another All-Star guard was being discussed behind the scenes. Speaking recently, the Klutch Sports CEO disclosed that Darius Garland was the player he originally envisioned alongside Victor Wembanyama, with the Cleveland Cavaliers star growing increasingly frustrated in Cleveland at the time.
The move never happened; however, Rich Paul’s comments offered a fascinating look at an alternate timeline that nearly changed the Spurs’ future.
Mar 19, 2026; San Antonio, Texas, USA; San Antonio Spurs guard De’aaron Fox (4) shoots in front of Phoenix Suns forward Ryan Dunn (0) in the first half at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Dunn-Imagn Images
Speaking about the situation, Paul explained how the Spurs first emerged as a potential landing spot for Garland before circumstances across the league shifted.
Paul’s revelation fills in several blanks about the Spurs’ search for a lead guard, and before the Spurs landed the No. 2 overall pick and before Fox became available, Garland appeared to be a realistic target. The fit made sense on paper. The Spurs did need a true floor general, while Garland’s shooting and playmaking projected seamlessly next to Wembanyama’s unique skill set.
At the time, Garland was navigating an uncertain situation in the Cavaliers. Sharing the spotlight with Donovan Mitchell often fueled speculation about the Cavaliers’ long-term plans, and Paul admitted his client was frustrated enough to consider a fresh start elsewhere.
However, the plan never advanced. Garland ultimately remained with the Cavaliers, at least temporarily, and attention shifted elsewhere, around the same period, Sacramento underwent major changes, including the dismissal of head coach Mike Brown. That development played a role in altering Fox’s outlook with the Kings. Once Fox became open to a move, the Spurs quickly emerged as a preferred destination. According to Paul, the biggest question was not basketball fit but was whether Fox would embrace playing alongside a generational talent already established as the franchise centerpiece.
The answer came immediately. Fox reportedly had no concerns about joining Wembanyama’s team and operating as the second option if necessary. That willingness helped clear the path for the blockbuster deal that eventually brought him to the Spurs.
Looking back, Paul’s comments reveal how close the Spurs came to taking a completely different route. Garland was once the guard being discussed next to Wembanyama. Instead, San Antonio landed Fox, and less than two years later, that partnership has already helped push the franchise back onto the NBA Finals stage.
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The move never happened; however, Rich Paul’s comments offered a fascinating look at an alternate timeline that nearly changed the Spurs’ future.
Rich Paul Says Darius Garland Was Initially Lined Up For Spurs Move Before De’Aaron Fox
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Mar 19, 2026; San Antonio, Texas, USA; San Antonio Spurs guard De’aaron Fox (4) shoots in front of Phoenix Suns forward Ryan Dunn (0) in the first half at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Dunn-Imagn Images
Speaking about the situation, Paul explained how the Spurs first emerged as a potential landing spot for Garland before circumstances across the league shifted.
Paul’s revelation fills in several blanks about the Spurs’ search for a lead guard, and before the Spurs landed the No. 2 overall pick and before Fox became available, Garland appeared to be a realistic target. The fit made sense on paper. The Spurs did need a true floor general, while Garland’s shooting and playmaking projected seamlessly next to Wembanyama’s unique skill set.
At the time, Garland was navigating an uncertain situation in the Cavaliers. Sharing the spotlight with Donovan Mitchell often fueled speculation about the Cavaliers’ long-term plans, and Paul admitted his client was frustrated enough to consider a fresh start elsewhere.
However, the plan never advanced. Garland ultimately remained with the Cavaliers, at least temporarily, and attention shifted elsewhere, around the same period, Sacramento underwent major changes, including the dismissal of head coach Mike Brown. That development played a role in altering Fox’s outlook with the Kings. Once Fox became open to a move, the Spurs quickly emerged as a preferred destination. According to Paul, the biggest question was not basketball fit but was whether Fox would embrace playing alongside a generational talent already established as the franchise centerpiece.
The answer came immediately. Fox reportedly had no concerns about joining Wembanyama’s team and operating as the second option if necessary. That willingness helped clear the path for the blockbuster deal that eventually brought him to the Spurs.
Looking back, Paul’s comments reveal how close the Spurs came to taking a completely different route. Garland was once the guard being discussed next to Wembanyama. Instead, San Antonio landed Fox, and less than two years later, that partnership has already helped push the franchise back onto the NBA Finals stage.
Continue reading...
