Fans crown Wembanyama MVP, but an underrated star and surprising athlete reveal the Spurs' true depth beyond their centerpiece.
The San Antonio Spurs aren’t just improving—they’ve firmly established themselves as one of the NBA’s elite, currently sitting as the second-best team in the league now that the season has ended.
What looked like a rebuilding project fairly recently has quickly transformed into a legitimate contender, and a recent fan poll held by Bleacher Report helped highlight exactly why this team has taken such a massive leap.
While the spotlight understandably shines on franchise cornerstone Victor Wembanyama, Spurs fans made it clear that success in San Antonio is about far more than one player.
According to the fan vote, Wembanyama was the overwhelming choice for team MVP, a result that reflects both his dominance and his importance to the Spurs’ rise. His two-way impact—anchoring the defense while producing efficiently on offense—has quickly made him one of the most influential young stars in the league.
But beyond the obvious, the poll highlighted a key theme: this Spurs team is deeper and more complete than many expected.
One of the most telling results came in the "most underrated" category, where Julian Champagnie earned the nod. While he may not generate headlines, Champagnie has quietly become one of the team’s most reliable contributors. He averaged 11 points and six rebounds per game, and was a very consistent three-point shooter at 38 percent.
The fan vote also reflected the team’s athletic upside, with Stephon Castle being named the best athlete. His explosiveness and physicality add another dimension to an already dangerous roster, especially as San Antonio continues to push the pace and apply pressure defensively.
Meanwhile, personality remains a major part of San Antonio’s culture. Keldon Johnson was recognized as the team’s best trash-talker, a nod to his energy and emotional leadership. That edge has become increasingly important as the Spurs embrace the intensity that comes with contending.
It has also helped him make a serious case for the Sixth Man of the Year Award.
Taken together, the results paint a clear picture of why the Spurs are thriving. Wembanyama may be the centerpiece, but this is a complete team built on depth, versatility, and cohesion.