What's Happening?
The San Antonio Spurs have officially waived Osayi Osifo, as confirmed by NBA.com's transactions log and RealGM's official log of NBA transactions. Osifo, a 6'7" forward from South Africa, went undrafted in 2023 after playing college basketball at Jacksonville. He participated in the Spurs' Summer League and had a brief stint with the Calgary Stampede in the Canadian Elite Basketball League earlier this year. During the 2024/25 season, Osifo played for the Spurs' G League affiliate in Austin, where he averaged 7.3 points, 7.5 rebounds, 1.0 steal, and 1.3 blocks per game over 30 regular season appearances. The waiver of Osifo leaves the Spurs with 20 players under contract, which is one shy of the offseason limit.
Why It's Important?
The decision to waive Osayi Osifo is significant for the Spurs as they continue to shape their roster for the upcoming season. With 20 players currently under contract, the team is nearing the offseason limit, which necessitates strategic decisions about player retention and development. Osifo's departure may open opportunities for other players to secure a spot on the roster or for the team to explore additional acquisitions. For Osifo, assuming he had an Exhibit 10 contract, he remains eligible for a bonus if he spends a minimum of 60 days with the Austin affiliate in the 2025/26 season, which could provide him with financial incentives and continued professional development.
What's Next?
Following Osifo's waiver, the Spurs will likely focus on finalizing their roster ahead of the regular season. This may involve evaluating current players, considering potential trades, or signing new talent to fill the remaining roster spot. Osifo, on the other hand, may seek opportunities with other teams or continue his career in the G League, where he can further develop his skills and potentially earn a call-up to the NBA. The team's management will need to balance player development with competitive performance as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Beyond the Headlines
Osifo's journey highlights the challenges faced by undrafted players in securing a stable position within the NBA. His experience underscores the importance of the G League as a platform for player development and career advancement. The waiver also reflects the competitive nature of professional basketball, where roster decisions are influenced by performance metrics, team strategy, and financial considerations. As the Spurs navigate these dynamics, they must also consider the long-term implications of their roster choices on team cohesion and success.
