San Antonio Spurs finally find Victor Wembanyama’s backup!

The San Antonio Spurs made a strong move at the opening of the NBA free agency by securing the services of Luke Kornet. The 7’2″ center signed a four-year, $41 million contract less than 90 minutes after the negotiation period opened.

Free agent center Luke Kornet has agreed to a four-year, $41 million deal with the San Antonio Spurs, sources tell ESPN. Key frontcourt addition for the Spurs, who negotiated a contract tonight with Kornet’s agent Max Wiepking of Gersh Sports. pic.twitter.com/cLnXxWJ2cv

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2025

A Strategic Addition to Support Wembanyama

This strategic signing allows the Spurs to strengthen their frontcourt while adding a new tactical dimension to their game. Kornet will provide depth at the center position behind French superstar Victor Wembanyama, while also offering the flexibility to move the latter to power forward in two-big lineups.

The deal was negotiated Monday evening by the Spurs and Kornet’s agent, Max Wiepking of Gersh Sports. This quick execution demonstrates the mutual interest between both parties and San Antonio’s desire to strengthen immediately.

Impressive Statistics in Boston

Kornet is coming off his best career season with the Celtics, where he excelled off the bench. In less than 19 minutes per game, the American averaged 6 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 1 block. Even more impressive, he had the best net rating on the NBA championship team.

Boston outscored opponents by 14.9 points per 100 possessions when Kornet was on the court, a statistic that highlights his real impact on the game. Known for his famous « Kornet Kontest » – a reference to his tendency to jump to contest 3-point shots regardless of distance – the center established himself as a solid defender capable of protecting the rim.

After exploring 3-point shooting early in his career, Kornet fully embraced his role as a rim finisher in Boston, posting a remarkable 68.1% field goal percentage over his last two seasons. This versatility and efficiency make him an ideal complement to the Spurs‘ ambitious project around their French phenomenon.