San Antonio is set for a feel‑good basketball night on Thursday as the Atlanta Hawks face the San Antonio Spurs. The game marks the hometown debut of local star Kingston Flemings, a Brennan High School alumnus who was selected No. 8 overall in this summer’s NBA draft.
Local hero’s jersey retirement
Before the Hawks’ road trip, Flemings was surprised at his former high school with a special ceremony. The school retired his jersey in front of teammates, former coaches, family members and childhood friends. “It was a great surprise,” Flemings said. “I had no idea what was coming, to be honest. For the Hawks to be there, my teammates growing up, coaches, family, everything — it was crazy.”
Family pride and future prospects
Flemings highlighted how the event brought together every part of his life. “It was everyone from all walks of my life growing up,” he added, noting that his younger sister Bella, a freshman at Duke, will soon have her own moment in the spotlight.
First NBA action
Flemings made his preseason debut on Monday against the Memphis Grizzlies, earning a start while CJ McCollum rested. He finished with 11 points on 4‑of‑11 shooting, showing the promise that earned him a top‑ten draft slot.
Game‑day mindset
Regardless of his role Thursday night, Flemings says his approach remains unchanged. “Same thing as always, go out there and try to get a win,” he said. “I’m an NBA player for a reason, so I’m just going to do what I love the most — play basketball.”
Why this matters to San Antonio
Flemings is the highest‑drafted NBA player from San Antonio since 1992, when Shaquille O’Neal went No. 1 overall. His rise offers a source of pride for the city’s youth and underscores the importance of local schools and community support in developing elite talent.
The Hawks‑Spurs matchup provides a chance for San Antonio fans to see one of their own compete at the highest level, while also showcasing the city’s commitment to celebrating its homegrown athletes.
Original reporting: KSAT Sports (San Antonio) — read the source article.
