Jeremy Sochan Explains How He Embraced Being an NBA Villain

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jonah Kubicek | Last updated Dec 18, 2024 10:40 AM ET

Between the dyed hair, the one-handed free throws, and the willingness to start a fight, Jeremy Sochan is one of the more colorful characters in the NBA, and he seems to think his personality is exactly what the San Antonio Spurs need.

Looking at the box score, his career averages of 11.7 points, 6.2 rebounds and three assists on underwhelming shooting percentages show a well-rounded player, but nothing stands out.

However, Sochan isn't concerned with stuffing the stats.

"(Bleep) the stat sheet.," he told reporters. "I'm going to do it, doesn't matter at the end of the day. If we get the win, that's what matters."

The Spurs are sitting at .500 to start the season, and despite missing 13 games, Sochan's energy is a big reason why the Spurs are staying afloat. He brings a much-needed boost and one-of-a-kind personality.

In the Spurs' recent win over the Portland Trail Blazers, Sochan scored 15 efficient points and played critical defense down the stretch, allowing the Spurs to come back, although the Blazers weren't shocked.

Chauncey Billups called Sochan an "agitator," which pleased the young forward, who grew up watching the Goin' to Work Detroit Pistons and their defense-first approach.

"I'm going to be me, you know, every game and whatever it says on that scouting report doesn't matter," he explained.

This season, Sochan leads the Spurs in personal fouls and already has two technicals to his name. He has been caught up with the likes of Markieff Morris, Amen Thompson, Jaden McDaniels, and Jabari Smith Jr., and is yet to back down from a fight, which is rare for an NBA player.

While he takes pride in his ability to be physical, he doesn't see himself as a headhunter.

"I don't really do it on purpose," he explained. "It comes natural. It's not like I'm trying to be a (bleep), I'm just me, you know what I mean? And some people don't like it. Some people dislike that, but it is what it is."

Last year, Sochan was assigned point guard duties for the first 26 games of the season and was visibly frustrated with the process. With Chris Paul in town, Sochan can lean into his role and is playing with some extra joy as he successfully fits in.

"It's just playing with energy, being aggressive, being a pest," is how Sochan describes his unique playstyle. "That's what I am, and I need to be, for this team."

Most of the advanced stats (VORP, PER, BPM) have Sochan as one of the best players on the team, even if he doesn't give a hoot about the box score, he makes sure to impact the game in his own way.

Check out the Inside the Spurs homepage for more news, analysis, and must-read articles.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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