NBA champion Jeremy Sochan just got waived by the Portland Trail Blazers ahead of the 2026-27 season, but if you think he’s dwelling on it, you clearly don’t know the guy. This isn’t some quiet exit; the former Spurs first-round pick is already locked in on what’s next, and honestly, his mindset is exactly what you’d expect from a champ.
No Time For Negativity: Sochan’s Wild Outlook On Portland
Sochan signed a one-year deal with Portland this offseason, and then, bam, he was out. But instead of letting that setback define him, he’s spinning it into pure gold. Speaking at Texas Legends media day, Sochan wasn’t shy about what went down. “I could look at it negatively, the Portland situation. But when I look back at that situation, I think the two months I was there, I grew a lot,” he said. How about that? A guy gets cut, and his first thought is growth.
He was totally healthy during training camp and preseason, too, and he made sure everyone knew he delivered on the court. “I was healthy throughout the whole training camp, preseason and open gym. So I think that was a blessing,” Sochan explained. “When we got into preseason games, the minutes I got I think I used them to the best of my ability. I had good games.” This 23-year-old isn’t looking back with regret; he’s looking back at a productive stint, a mindset that’s gonna take him places. Why hold onto something you can’t control? That’s his vibe, and it’s infectious.
From NBA Champ to G League Number One Pick: The Road Back Starts Now
Let’s not forget, this isn’t just some player; Jeremy Sochan is an NBA champion. He spent most of his NBA career with the Spurs, who drafted him ninth overall in 2022. Then he split the 2025-26 season between San Antonio and the New York Knicks, where he actually clinched a championship ring when the Knicks took down the Spurs in the NBA Finals last season. He’s got a career average of 9.9 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 2.5 assists, so this guy can play.
Now, he’s not letting the Blazers situation derail anything. His next shot? The Texas Legends, the Dallas Mavericks’ NBA G League affiliate. And get this: the Legends snagged him with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 G League Draft. Talk about a swift pivot! This isn’t a step back; it’s a strategic move for a player determined to get back to the NBA.
The Legends kick off their G League season on Friday, November 6. Sochan is ready to keep that momentum going, working his way back to the big league. You just know he’s gonna light it up in Texas, proving that being cut was just another chapter in a championship story. Keep your eyes on him, because this dude isn’t done yet.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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