Veteran forward Rudy Gay finally took another major step forward in his recovery from a ruptured Achilles by taking the court for the first time with the San Antonio Spurs on Saturday night.

Following the game, Gay voiced relief about playing his first game since suffering the injury, according to Jeff McDonald of the San Antonio-Express News.

“I’ve practiced pretty hard, just knowing I can get up there still, jump and be athletic,” the 31-year-old small forward said. “It takes a lot of pressure off me.”

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It may have been in limited action, but it's an encouraging sign that he was able to play effectively that included throwing down a two-hand dunk and not experience any setbacks. The Spurs have voiced that there is no rush in bringing him back in the fold due to the type of injury that he suffered that is often times career altering.

That said, the fact that Gay played well in his first action could mean more extended action over the rest of the preseason. This could also allow for the Spurs to see where he will work best on the floor in various lineup combinations.

The 31-year-old could play a big part with the Spurs in his first season as likely the primary scoring option off the bench. He may also be featured in small-ball lineups playing at power forward to increase the offensive production.