Ex-Pistons forward Tobias Harris signs with Spurs

Coty M. Davis, The Detroit News on Jul 1, 2026

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DETROIT — The Detroit Pistons have lost one of their most important players during their resurgence over the past two years: Tobias Harris. Harris has signed a two-year, $31 million deal with the San Antonio Spurs, leaving the Pistons behind, a source familiar with the deal told The Detroit News.

Harris aimed to return to the Pistons after playing a significant role in turning the team's franchise around following his arrival in July 2024. However, the source confirmed to The News that Harris' departure was primarily for financial reasons.

In his second stint, Harris appeared in 136 games, averaging 13.5 points on 47.3% shooting from the field, while adding 5.6 rebounds and 1.0 steals per game.

"Tobias has been great. His approach and professionalism have been huge in terms of us establishing the environment that we have had over the past two years," president of basketball operations Trajan Langdon said at his end of season press conference in May. "There isn't a day when he does not come to work or a day when he doesn't do extra work. Pre-practice and post-practice, he was a finalist for the community award. We are very proud of what he does for us."

Harris experienced one of the most productive seasons of his career, particularly during the playoffs, where he averaged 20.8 points per game on 45.5% shooting across the first 11 games. His contributions helped the Pistons advance to the second round for the first time since 2008. Additionally, off the court, Harris played a vital role in fostering a strong team culture with his veteran leadership.

Coach J.B. Bickerstaff has used many adjectives to describe Harris' impact on the Pistons, but none more than calling the 15-year veteran his "safety blanket."

"Nobody can say sh-- to me about Tobias Harris," Bickerstaff said after the Pistons' Game 7 victory over the Orlando Magic on May 3. "He is dependable, reliable [and] prepared for the moment. He’s a leader, he’s a great teammate [and] he’s a great human being. He’s a high-level competitor."

Before Harris signed with the Spurs, the Pistons agreed to a three-year contract worth $51 million with forward John Collins. Only the first year of Collins' contract is guaranteed.

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