Jeremy Sochan opens up about departure from Spurs

The fourth-year forward met with the New York media on Wednesday for the first time since signing with the Knicks.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Jeremy Sochan, the former San Antonio Spurs forward, suggested that a conflict with coach Mitch Johnson may have factored into the Spurs' decision to waive him last week. Sochan, the ninth overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, signed with the New York Knicks after clearing waivers and said he's "blessed to be somewhere to grow." Knicks coach Mike Brown expressed excitement about adding Sochan's gritty, defensive-minded play to the team, though his role is not yet certain.

Why it matters

Sochan's departure from the Spurs highlights the challenges young players can face in establishing themselves in the NBA, especially on deep rosters. The Spurs' decision to waive Sochan raises questions about the team's player development and communication with its players.

The details

Sochan, 22, said he didn't see "eye-to-eye" with Spurs coach Mitch Johnson, though Johnson had praised Sochan for how he handled being dropped from the rotation in mid-December. The Spurs' selection of Arizona forward Carter Bryant 14th overall in last June's NBA Draft likely contributed to Sochan's reduced playing time this season.

  • Sochan was waived by the Spurs last week.
  • Sochan signed with the Knicks after clearing waivers.

The players

Jeremy Sochan

A fourth-year forward who was the ninth overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft by the San Antonio Spurs.

Mitch Johnson

The head coach of the San Antonio Spurs.

Mike Brown

The head coach of the New York Knicks.

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What they’re saying

“No real opportunity in my opinion. It is what it is. It's a deep team.”

— Jeremy Sochan (The Athletic)

“Maybe I didn't see eye-to-eye with coach.”

— Jeremy Sochan (The Athletic)

“Anytime you can add (more attitude) to your team, you add it.”

— Mike Brown, Knicks coach (The Athletic)

What’s next

Sochan will look to carve out a role with the Knicks, who are hoping his gritty, defensive-minded play can contribute to their championship aspirations.

The takeaway

Sochan's departure from the Spurs highlights the challenges young players can face in establishing themselves in the NBA, especially on deep rosters. His signing with the Knicks presents an opportunity for Sochan to grow and potentially find more playing time, though his role is not yet certain.