Jeremy Sochan Joins Knicks After Spurs Departure

The 22-year-old forward is eager for a fresh start in New York after limited playing time in San Antonio.

Feb. 23, 2026 at 9:31pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Jeremy Sochan, a former first-team All-Rookie selection, has joined the New York Knicks after being waived by the San Antonio Spurs. Sochan, who arrived with his hair dyed in Knicks colors, expressed frustration with his lack of playing time in San Antonio, citing a lack of "real opportunity" and not seeing "eye to eye" with the coaching staff. The Knicks were interested in acquiring Sochan at the trade deadline but were unable to reach a deal with the Spurs. Now, Sochan is excited for the chance to "grow and blossom" with the Knicks and thrive in the "crazy" and "global" culture of New York City.

Why it matters

Sochan's availability on the buyout market is a surprise, as he was coming off three seasons of averaging over 25 minutes per game and making the 2023 All-Rookie first team. His departure from the Spurs highlights the challenges young players can face when there is a disconnect with the coaching staff, and it provides the Knicks with an opportunity to add a talented player who could contribute as they push for a playoff spot.

The details

Sochan cited a "very deep team" and a lack of "eye to eye" with head coach Mitch Johnson as reasons for his limited playing time in San Antonio this season. A big factor was Sochan's poor jump shooting, with his career efficiency from deep under 30%. His defense, which had previously facilitated a large role, was also "uninspiring" in his limited action this season.

  • Sochan was waived by the Spurs last week.
  • Sochan signed with the Knicks shortly after being waived.

The players

Jeremy Sochan

A 22-year-old forward who was previously a first-team All-Rookie selection with the San Antonio Spurs.

Mitch Johnson

The head coach of the San Antonio Spurs, who replaced Gregg Popovich.

Mike Brown

The head coach of the New York Knicks, who plans to give Sochan a chance as the backup power forward.

Guerschon Yabusele

A player the Knicks offered to the Spurs in a trade for Sochan at the deadline, but the Spurs declined.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Just no real opportunity, in my opinion. And it is what it is. It's a very deep team. And maybe I didn't see eye to eye with Coach, and Coach didn't see anything I could do for the team.”

— Jeremy Sochan

“It's tough. In my whole career even looking past the NBA I've never really been sitting on the bench and getting DNPs. So you go through a process of questioning why or what's happening.”

— Jeremy Sochan

“Very excited. The culture here, at the Knicks and New York in general, is crazy and very global. And I feel like I'm global, too.”

— Jeremy Sochan

What’s next

The Knicks plan to give Sochan a chance as the backup power forward and test him out before the playoffs.

The takeaway

Sochan's departure from the Spurs highlights the challenges young players can face when there is a disconnect with the coaching staff, but it also provides the Knicks with an opportunity to add a talented player who could contribute as they push for a playoff spot.