Keldon Johnson and Jeremy Sochan have a brotherly relationship

In the gloomy season Spurs, second to last in the Eastern Conference (14-34), has few reasons for satisfaction, but still a few. Starting with a good deal between them Keldon Johnson and Jeremy SochanThe two title wings of the Texas franchise called upon to represent its future.

Since Sochan’s arrival in the NBA last June, he and Johnson haven’t let each other off the court. Energetic, outgoing and above all funny, they have created a great bond and a great friendship which is essential in this very special league.

” They both talk non-stop » The book on this subject Josh Richardson, one of the veterans of the group San Antonio. ” They love to joke, they have the same sense of humor adds Zach Collins, another experienced player.

There is no gift for a beginner

What is the reason for such a relationship between them? ” He is a real person. He is just himself and energetic. When something happens, he will talk about it and communicate about it. He may be sensitive, but he also brings all this energy “He judges the 9th pick of the last draft.

Of course, Keldon Johnson also recognizes himself in Jeremy Sochan, who came to the NBA like him at the age of 19. ” Some of the things he does make me remember when I was just starting out, it’s like deja vu “, he confirms.

However, Johnson isn’t the type to act like he’s seen it all around young Socha.

” I wouldn’t call it a big brother-little brother relationship. I’m just his brother, someone he can count on, always there when he needs me. “he accurately notes.

Still, don’t count on Keldon Johnson to show his teammate any leniency or treatment…

” I’m not here to coddle him, because I want to see Jeremy be the best basketball player he can be. So I’m going to be tough on him and be his biggest critic “, he makes sure to add later, regarding Jeremy Sochan. ” He will be an incredible player. He’s got everything he needs to get there: attitude, hunger, passion for the game… I’m proud of his progress, he’s taking his time and working hard, so I’m sure he’ll have a bright future. »

This attitude pleases Gregg Popovich

The relationship between the two men must be so sizzling (and based on banter) that Spurs’ communications managers have to make sure they’re not around each other during the interview. And at the same time, so as not to provoke them…

But on the floor, while San Antonio’s collective results leave something to be desired, the unity between Keldon Johnson and Jeremy Sochan is also evident. All this was built thanks to all the activities shared by the two wingmen (cinema, restaurant, horse riding and soon hunting or fishing).

” He means a lot to me, I learned a lot from him both on and off the field. “says, for example, an American-Polish teenager.” We’re always together and it’s helped me absorb this culture, this organization, life in the NBA. We joke, but there are times when we are serious. »

It’s already very solid, so their relationship continues to grow, and Gregg Popovich is happy to see Keldon Johnson step up in terms of leadership.

” It goes to the next stage [du processus] “, the Spurs head coach believes. “ He is still very young. At this point, we’re more interested in his personal development, skill set and learning as a player, so we don’t expect him to [devienne un leader comme David Robinson]. But he is on the right track. »

Infectious, Keldon Johnson and Jeremy Socha’s constant good humor rubs off on all of their teammates. Even in this season placed under the sign of reconstruction, it is enough to keep a minimum smile (not to say tanking…).