The San Antonio Spurs made a flurry of roster moves Saturday, finalizing their lineup ahead of Wednesday’s season opener. Following the conclusion of preseason play Friday night, the team waived six players — including two who impressed in the finale against the Indiana Pacers.
The Spurs officially waived James Banks III, Jamaree Bouyea, Adam Flagler, Kyle Mangas, Micah Potter and Stanley Umude. With no two-way contract spots remaining, the six players are expected to join San Antonio’s G League affiliate, the Austin Spurs.
Umude and Potter combined for 19 points off the bench in the preseason finale, each playing roughly 10 minutes. Umude spent last season with the Milwaukee Bucks’ G League affiliate, while Potter played for Utah’s. Flagler also brings G League experience, having been on a two-way deal with the Oklahoma City Thunder last season.
The moves solidify veteran Bismack Biyombo’s spot on the regular-season roster as the Spurs’ third center, ending speculation about his release. Biyombo will back up Victor Wembanyama and recently signed reserve Luke Kornet.
A familiar face in San Antonio, Biyombo returns after a steady, defense-first campaign last season. Though not known for scoring, the 33-year-old has averaged 5.1 points, 5.9 rebounds and 1.3 blocks per game over his 14-year NBA career.
Despite never having made a three-pointer in his career, Biyombo’s rim protection remains valuable — especially if Wembanyama were to miss time.
San Antonio will open up their season on the road against the Dallas Mavericks and New Orleans Pelicans before returning home to face the Brooklyn Nets.