Sochan Opens Up on Spurs Exit, Excited for Fresh Start with Knicks

The young forward struggled with playing time and fit in San Antonio before landing with the playoff-contending Knicks.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Jeremy Sochan, a former first-round pick of the San Antonio Spurs, has opened up about the circumstances that led to his exit from the team. Sochan cited a lack of opportunity and not seeing "eye-to-eye" with the coaching staff as the primary reasons behind his departure. The 23-year-old forward is now looking forward to a fresh start with the New York Knicks, where he hopes to earn playing time and contribute to the team's playoff push.

Why it matters

Sochan's honest assessment of his time with the Spurs provides insight into the challenges young players can face in the NBA, especially when they don't quite fit the team's system or vision. His move to the Knicks represents an opportunity for Sochan to revitalize his career and showcase his potential as a two-way player.

The details

After playing regularly in his first few seasons with the Spurs, Sochan fell out of the rotation this year due to his offensive struggles, particularly with his shooting. The coaching staff deemed him a liability, leading to Sochan's eventual waiving and subsequent signing with the Knicks. Sochan acknowledges that he and the Spurs' coaching staff "didn't see eye-to-eye," which contributed to his lack of playing time and eventual departure from the team.

  • Sochan was waived by the Spurs earlier this season.
  • Sochan signed with the Knicks in February 2026.

The players

Jeremy Sochan

A 23-year-old forward who was a former first-round pick of the San Antonio Spurs and is now playing for the New York Knicks.

Mitch Johnson

The head coach of the San Antonio Spurs, who Sochan felt did not provide him with enough of an opportunity to succeed.

Mike Brown

The head coach of the New York Knicks, who Sochan hopes can help him find more success and playing time.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“No real opportunity in my opinion. It is what it is. It's a deep team. Maybe I didn't see eye-to-eye with the coach. I'm just blessed to be somewhere to grow.”

— Jeremy Sochan, Knicks Forward (Sporting News)

What’s next

Sochan will look to earn a consistent role in the Knicks' rotation as the team pushes for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.

The takeaway

Sochan's honest assessment of his Spurs exit highlights the challenges young players can face in the NBA, especially when they don't quite fit a team's system or vision. His move to the Knicks represents an opportunity for Sochan to revitalize his career and showcase his potential as a two-way player under a new coaching staff.