SAN ANTONIO – The Spurs had a literal changing of the guard on Sunday as Dejounte Murray started over veteran Tony Parker.
Parker came off of the bench against Indiana Pacers, marking the first time since the 2009-2010 season that Parker didn't get the start.
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ESPN's Michael C. Wright reported coach Gregg Popovich talked with Parker ahead of the game and "told (Parker) that 'he thought it was time.'"
According to ESPN, Parker had no problem with the switch.
"I was like, ‘Oh, no problem,'" Parker told ESPN. "Just like Manu, just like Pau, that day's going to come. And if Pop sees something that is good for the team, I'll try to do my best."
Parker was sidelined for the beginning of the 2017-2018 season as he recovered from a torn quadriceps tendon injury he suffered during last season’s playoffs.
Murray started for the first seven games of the Spurs' 2017-2018 season. Patty Mills filled the role until Parker's return against Dallas.
At 21-years-old, Murray has averaged 6 points and 4 rebounds through the 47 games he's played this season.
Tony Parker is out and Dejounte Murray is in as the Spurs starting point guard. ESPN reports Coach Pop met with Tony before tonight's game.
— Greg Simmons (@GregSimmonsKSAT) January 22, 2018
Parker, in contrast, is averaging 8 points, 2 rebounds and 4 assists through the 21 games he's played.
When asked if Murray would be the starter moving forward, Coach Popovich said after the game, "We'll see."