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Spurs quietly end Rui Hachimura pursuit for one major reason – here's why originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The San Antonio Spurs made significant changes to both their roster and coaching staff following their recent playoff run. Among their biggest offseason additions was veteran forward Tobias Harris, who was brought in to add experience and leadership to the team's young core.
Before signing Harris, the Spurs had been heavily linked to Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura. However, NBA insider Brett Siegel recently reported that San Antonio is no longer pursuing the Japanese forward and has officially exited the Hachimura sweepstakes.
"Although the San Antonio Spurs were brought up as a potential suitor for Hachimura earlier this offseason, he wasn't viewed as a realistic option for the franchise, sources said,” Siegel reported.
“While the organization did speak with Hachimura's representation, the Spurs were targeting experience and veteran leadership on a short-term contract rather than a long-term commitment. That is why Tobias Harris was the Spurs' top target, and they didn't have much interest in Hachimura."
Because Hachimura's camp was seeking a longer-term contract that reflected his market value, the Spurs ultimately shifted their full attention to Harris. San Antonio later finalized a two-year, $31 million deal with Harris.
Harris arrives in San Antonio with more than a decade of playoff experience, providing valuable leadership for one of the NBA's youngest rosters. Additionally, his two-year contract allows the Spurs to strengthen their rotation while preserving long-term salary cap flexibility.
Hachimura remains one of the most uniquely skilled, mid-sized forwards in the league. Last season he averaged 11.5 points and 3.3 rebounds with the Lakers. He averaged 17.5 points, 4.0 rebounds and 1.7 assists in 10 games in the 2026 playoffs.
The Lakers star would have added another talented young piece alongside Victor Wembanyama. However, San Antonio ultimately prioritized proven veteran leadership, immediate stability, and financial flexibility over making a long-term investment in a developing player.
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