Spurs' Jeremy Sochan volunteers his services as first Black James Bond
Jeremy Sochan has gained attention for his unique style, often showcasing various hair colors, but it seems he's now aiming for a bigger role — one that could make him a movie star, specifically as James Bond.
James Bond producer Barbara Broccoli reportedly stated that the franchise is searching for a man in his 30s to play the next 007. She also mentioned that they are open to casting a person of color in the iconic role.
Sochan responded to this news on X (formerly Twitter), expressing his interest by writing:
“I’m ready…”
While Jeremy Sochan has no acting experience outside of appearing in televised basketball games, he’s known for his charismatic personality and strong online presence.
James Bond, a fictional character created by British author Ian Fleming in 1953, is a British secret agent working for MI6 with the codename 007.
Bond has been portrayed in 27 films by various actors, including Sean Connery, David Niven, George Lazenby, Roger Moore, Timothy Dalton, Pierce Brosnan and Daniel Craig. However, all of these actors have been white. While it’s a long shot, if Sochan were to secure the role, he would make history as the first Black actor to play James Bond.
Gregg Popovich praises Jeremy Sochan’s competitive spirit
Although Jeremy Sochan isn’t a real-life secret agent, he embodies the spirit of one on the basketball court with his competitiveness — a trait Spurs coach Gregg Popovich has recognized and praised.
"I think you get everything out of him," Popovich said after a game in October (per SI). "He puts his heart out on the floor, on both sides of the court, for every minute he's on the court. Great competitor."
Sochan is averaging 15.4 points (career-high), 7.7 rebounds (career-high) and 3.0 assists per game this season. He takes pride in his gritty playing style.
"This is what I've done my whole life," Sochan said (per SI). "I love this game. My teammates love this game. We're going to come out with passion and hunger, and we're going to try to win every game."
Sochan helped the Spurs achieve a 5-6 start to the season. Last year, they didn’t reach their fifth win until December.
Unfortunately, the Spurs, led by Victor Wembanyama, are now without Sochan for an indefinite period after he underwent surgery to repair a fractured left thumb, an injury he sustained earlier this month.
A timeline for the return of the No. 9 pick from the 2022 draft after his surgery has yet to be released.