Draft Night Arrival
The 2026 NBA Draft brought a familiar buzz to the San Antonio Spurs as they welcomed Ja’Kobi Gillespie with the 42nd overall pick in the second round. The selection capped a whirlwind few years for the guard, who first arrived in College Park after a two‑year stint at Belmont and then spent a single, statistically rich season with the Maryland Terrapins before heading to Tennessee for his final year of eligibility.
College Highlights
During his lone season with Maryland, Gillespie averaged 14.7 points per game while shooting 40.7% from three‑point range, earning a spot on the All‑Big Ten third team. His time at Maryland was marked by a brief but memorable run that included a stint with the Crab Five, a group that left a lasting imprint on the program’s recent history.
NBA Outlook
Gillespie will now join a young, dynamic Spurs roster that already features rising stars such as Victor Wembanyama, Stephon Castle and Devin Vassell. The guard’s shooting touch and playmaking ability are expected to add depth to a backcourt that is still shaping its identity, and his experience against top‑tier competition should prove valuable as the team looks to climb the Western Conference.
Remembering Maryland
Though his tenure in College Park was short, Gillespie’s impact lingered. Teammates like Bishop Boswell, who will battle for a starting guard role in the upcoming 2026‑27 campaign, have spoken of his work ethic and clutch performances. The memories of his 18‑point senior season at Tennessee, where he started every game, underscore a trajectory that many believe will translate well to the professional level.