Spurs' Tre Jones Reveals 'Main Goal' as Bench Role Continues
The San Antonio Spurs are taking on the division rival Memphis Grizzlies tonight at the FedEx Forum, and the different starting lineups coach Gregg Popovich has been using recently due to both injury and general adjustment are likely to continue.
But one thing that's unlikely to change is the role of guard Tre Jones, who has come off the bench in all 28 of his appearances this season despite being the only traditional point guard on the roster, at least based on style of play and skillset
During shootaround Tuesday ahead of the matchup against Memphis, Jones discussed his continued bench role and showed that he embodies the Spurs culture that's been established since the days of Duncan, Ginobili and Parker.
"I continue to just try to take care of what I can," Jones said. "I try to be a leader for this team both on and off the court. When my name is called, I am ready. My main goal is always to just to try to win. No matter what role I am, I just have to try to continue to do that."
Despite not starting a game this season, Jones leads the team in assists (4.9). Spurs star rookie Victor Wembanyama leads the team in the other four main stat categories. Along with his assist numbers, Jones has averaged 8.2 points and 2.8 rebounds per game.
Though the Spurs are in tough spot as one of the worst teams in the league, Jones is a vital part of the future of this roster. He'll look to help San Antonio (5-27) pick up its sixth win of the season against a Grizzlies team (10-22) that's still finding its groove after the return of star Ja Morant.
