After an offseason that felt like an eternity, we are finally able to see our Spurs rise. All summer long, we anticipated a jump from the Silver and Black, and so far, it is looking like our dream is becoming a reality. Here at Air Alamo, we are giving ourselves a pat on the back for jumping on the Spurs playoff bandwagon before anyone else. Of course, we would.
Now, it seems that others are finally getting on board. After the Spurs' electric 5-1 start, the rest of the NBA media is starting to take notice. Amongst several publications' power rankings, the Spurs have skyrocketed from the middle of the pack to the top 10. On NBA.com, the Spurs rank ninth; meanwhile, on Bleacher Report, they jumped to number five. It's been quite the leap for San Antonio.
The Spurs are a bona fide playoff team and it is as clear as day
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Coming off a disappointing finish last season, when the team finished 13th in the Western Conference, many questioned how they would fare in the 2025-26 season. Was it too early to predict a massive leap despite the added talent? Well, the answer to that question was a resounding no.
Any hesitation that the Spurs could make a boost from the bottom to the top of the conference in just one season is now looking foolish. This team is entirely ready to do it. The writing was on the wall.
The most significant reason that this Spurs team was and is ready to power to the top is none other than the defense. Spearheaded by superstar Victor Wembanyama, the Alamo defense has been absolutely dominant. Ranking 2nd in the net ranking, the unit has put an end to every offense that has come their way.
With this recipe, it doesn't take much else to win regular-season games. With a defense this good, bountiful opportunities are created on offense through transition. The Spurs' biggest concern, [three-point shooting, has become an afterthought](https://airalamo.com/repetitive-spurs-critics-missing-big-picture-offense) because of how great the defense has played.
The Spurs array of talent makes for a guaranteed playoff spot
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Another huge reason for the Spurs' success has been Stephon Castle. The reigning Rookie of the Year is enjoying an explosive sophomore campaign on both sides of the floor. The hasty guard has been instrumental to the Spurs' success with his elite finishing, playmaking chops, and rising shooting stroke.
Lastly, regular-season success was going to be a given [when a squad is this deep](https://airalamo.com/spurs-special-benefit-make-them-impossible-shake). Even with the piling injuries, the Spurs have been able to maintain form because of their uniquely equipped squad. Mitch Johnson's rotation can survive anything that comes its way, and the Spurs constantly have impactful players on the court ready to make a play.
To anyone who doubted the Spurs heading into the season, I hope you have learned your lesson; the NBA analysts are finally catching up. While there is still a ton of season left, it is clear from the beginning that this Spurs team is ready to rock.