SAN ANTONIO – Rudy Gay spoke to the San Antonio media for the first time in full on Wednesday since signing with the Spurs during the offseason.
The 6-foot-8 forward signed a two-year deal with the Spurs in July worth a reported $17.2 million.
Gay declined his player option in Sacramento, which would have paid him $14 million next year alone to sign with the Spurs.
He made it clear what led to that decision. “This is a do-or-die point in my career,” Gay said. “I wanted to be with organization known for winning, and can help me raise my game to the next level, so where else do you go?”
Gay has averaged 18.4 points and nearly six rebounds per game over his 11-year career, but suffered a major Achilles injury in January.
He said he will be ready to go for camp which starts soon after a long rehab process.
“I feel great, I’ve been working hard and I’m ready to go,” Gay said.
Gay said he believes he will be a great fit with the Spurs and his versatility will help the team, whether he plays the small or power forward position.
#Spurs Rudy Gay talks to media for first time today. Says he'll fit in great w/SA, talks playing for Coach Popovich #KSATnews #KSATSports pic.twitter.com/fYmgMQiKAx
— RJ Marquez (@KSATRJ) September 13, 2017
Ultimately, Gay said he’s happy to be in San Antonio after playing in the playoffs once over his long career.
“From what I’ve seen with the Spurs, every year you are playing for a championship,” Gay said. “I don’t expect any less."
