The San Antonio Spurs have a rich tradition that they can lean on, and one overlooked moment has remained at the forefront of the team's identity.
The kids are going to be alright.
Of course, it helps that the young San Antonio Spurs are led by Victor Wembanyama, the 7-5 "Alien" who can dominate each and every night on both ends of the floor, although the Spurs seem committed to keeping their culture alive.
Forged by Gregg Popovich, David Robinson, and Tim Duncan, there is a closeness and togetherness in San Antonio that other teams have tried to replicate, but there has never been much success.
At the center of it all? One of the least athletic things on Earth: video games.
Spurs Make Sure Video Games Remain a Focal Point#
In 2026, playing video games is universal, especially among young men. It makes sense that Wembanyama, Dylan Harper, Stephon Castle, and the rest of the Spurs' youngsters are "in the game," although they use interpersonal entertainment as a way to build bonds.
"Our chemistry is probably one of the reasons why we're so good, and I think we're trending in the right direction," explained Dylan Harper. "I think from the youngest guys, the rookies, all the way up to the vets, I think we all share a connection, that bond. We all play video games together. We all hang out at each other's houses. If we're on the road, we go out to eat dinner. So just little things like that that I think nobody sees, but gives us a little bit of edge."
When Popovich was coaching, team dinners were mandatory, and often the best part of the road trip. After the Spurs won the 1999 NBA Finals, instead of hitting the town or hosting a lavish party, the team got together and just hung out, playing video games.
The current Knicks host the "Roomates Show," a podcast, and it's becoming more and more rare that teammates just hang out.
At the end of the day, NBA players are being paid to play a game meant for children. Yes, there's a competitive fire and a craft that needs to be honed constantly, although the Spurs know that building and maintaining chemistry is a core part of their historical success, and the current roster is just as committed to finding the same sense of cohesion.