Mason Plumlee Joins Spurs, Eager for San Antonio Debut

Veteran big man impressed with young Spurs team, ready to contribute after recovering from injury

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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After being waived by the Charlotte Hornets, veteran NBA center Mason Plumlee has signed with the San Antonio Spurs. Plumlee, who is recovering from a December groin surgery, is now available to make his debut for the Spurs and is eager to join the team's young, unselfish, and fast-paced squad.

Why it matters

Plumlee's addition provides depth and experience to the Spurs' frontcourt as they make a push for the playoffs. His championship pedigree and versatile skillset could prove valuable for a Spurs team looking to make a deep postseason run.

The details

Plumlee, a 36-year-old big man, was waived by the Charlotte Hornets after the trade deadline, allowing him to sign with the Spurs. He's been ramping up his recovery from a December groin surgery and is now ready to make his debut in San Antonio. Spurs head coach Mitch Johnson praised Plumlee's experience and the different skillset he brings compared to the team's other frontcourt players.

  • Plumlee was waived by the Charlotte Hornets after the trade deadline.
  • Plumlee signed a 10-day contract with the Spurs and then a deal for the rest of the season.
  • Plumlee is now available to make his debut for the Spurs.

The players

Mason Plumlee

A veteran NBA center who has played for several teams over the past 12 seasons, including the Brooklyn Nets, Denver Nuggets, and Charlotte Hornets.

Mitch Johnson

The head coach of the San Antonio Spurs, who praised Plumlee's experience and the different skillset he brings to the team.

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What they’re saying

“My body feels great, they had a good plan to get me back to playing shape, and I'm ready to go. We've been playing pickup, 5-on-5, getting up and down, to me that's the best way to get in basketball shape.”

— Mason Plumlee (si.com)

“Mason's been around the league, very experienced, and we just wanted to add depth at that spot, and thought he was also a different type, I guess you could say, than (Bismack Biyombo and Kelly Oubre) and the guys that we already had.”

— Mitch Johnson, Spurs Head Coach (si.com)

What’s next

Plumlee is expected to make his debut for the Spurs in their upcoming games as he continues to work his way back to full strength following his injury.

The takeaway

Plumlee's addition to the Spurs' roster provides valuable veteran experience and a different skillset to complement the team's young core. His championship pedigree and ability to contribute in various ways could be a key factor as the Spurs make a push for the playoffs.