Who Are You

Who Are You

A Doctor Dunkenstein Thought:

BASKETBALL IS AN IMPERFECT ART!

1) No basketball player has ever played the perfect game of basketball.  No basketball team has ever played a mistake free game.  It is a game of  art that is never perfect. It can always be improved. 

2) The key to beating a competitive opponent – a team of the same caliber of skill and performance – in a close basketball game is eliminating the number of mistakes.  Sometimes, it only takes eliminating one or two mistakes in order to win.   To win a close game against a good team the first priority is defensive performance.  Yet, most people do not evaluate an NBA team’s defense in their assessments.  It can be argued that many NBA players – and even some teams -do not evaluate their own defensive performances in any depth of reality.

Fans and media critics do not normally have any idea of how the entire game of basketball is actually played.  Not to mention how a team actually wins.  They are stimulated by peripherals: dunks, offense, and scores of three point shots from behind the line.  The defense is rarely at the center of any media or fan discussions.  Yet it may be the most important element of winning a basketball game. 

San Antonio Spurs Head Coach, Coach Mitch Johnson,  has always demonstrated that he is quite knowledgeable about the game of basketball and how it should be played by a winning San Antonio Spurs basketball team.  He is in the initial stages of establishing this in his players for the 2026-27 NBA season. 

Most importantly Coach Johnson states, the San Antonio Spurs have a distance to travel in order to reach their potential highest level of play. 

Often Mentioning: 

1) Inconsistency throughout the games.  “The Floor” and anticipated level of team performance.

2) “The Standard” of capability for the Spurs.

3) Habits … … … Energy …  Effort.  

Words of wisdom, criticism and critique must be heard, repetitively accepted by a successful championship team.

How do you tell any young man what to do when he is already one of the best in the entire world at his craft.  And further, his craftsmanship of playing basketball has made him wealthier beyond most men’s dreams. 

Was anyone really qualified to tell Picasso the great artist that he needed to make changes in his artistic style and paintings.  No they were not qualified.  You simply don’t alter a masterpiece during creation. 

Well, … this section will address: 

1. Who Doctor Dunkenstein thinks a group of  men, who are in such a situation of wealth and performance as  mentioned above, are today as a basketball  team , and what they might achieve in the 2027 NBA basketball season.

Our Conclusion:  THOSE 15 GIFTED SAN ANTONIO SPURS BASKETBALL PLAYERS, AND ONLY THEY AS A GROUP –  AND TEAM COACHES –  WILL DETERMINE THE FINAL ANWSER OF ‘WHO ARE YOU’, IN THE NEXT 8 MONTHS.

Just maybe something written or presented in this section, ‘Who Are You’, will help them along that journey.

Drawing An Analogy:  We don’t suggest Picasso should change any of his paintings, but we might teach him a new way to make a single brush stroke or perhaps blend a new color combination.  

You Dont' Change Picasso Paintings

Who Are You! San Antonio

Date: Nov. 7, 2026

Notre Dame Head Coach Marcus Freeman

Post Interview Comments After Notre Dame defeated the NCAA college football #1 Ranked Miami Hurricanes.

Whooooa! ( Coach Freeman acknowledges the moment and relief of winning a difficult game in one word of expression).

Freeman: What a night for this program, this University, for so many people, so many who love this place  … … … .  WE MUST BE GRATEFUL TO ALL WHO HELPED AND CONTRIBUTED …   to the outcome.

Question:  What was your message before and after the game?  What did you learn about your team as they fought through second half adversity?

Coach Freeman:  I told them the same thing  I tell them (the players) before every game.

 THERE ARE CERTAIN THINGS WE MUST DO TO WIN THIS GAME   … DON’T LET THE PAGEANTRY,  THE ENVIRONMENT,   DON’T LET THE OPPONENT DISTRACT YOU FROM WHAT IS REALITY!

At 7:31 it’s a football game, and we gotta (must) do what it takes to win a football game.  OUR FORMULA DOESN’T CHANGE.

We talk about our keys to victory, which could change, depending upon who is the opponent, but

WE gotta (must) stay in the moment, and win the interval.  That was my message.  Then after the game, I want them to enjoy it … because they worked extremely hard to get that,    then  …. 

Question: What about the decision and the pressure of when you ‘went for it’ on fourth down?  Were you nervous?

Coach Freeman:  SEE THAT’S THE MISCONCEPTION,  THAT WHAT THE GAME DICTATES and makes you have ‘these nerves’  in one game to another.  If you are nervous on a fourth down call against Navy, your going to be nervous against Miami … …

THE DECISIONS I MAKE HAD NOTHING TO DO WITH THE OPPONENT … ( it is determined by how we play)  … it’s determined by what we believe,  when we go for it on fourth and nine, (all the time , in every game),  … I DON’T WANT THE GAME TO INFLUENCE DECISIONS … WE  HAVE A PLAN.  You just gotta (must) go out there and execute the plan.  And execute it WHEN IT MATTERS THE MOST! 

Question: What does a win like this mean for the ‘REST OF THE SEASON’?

Coach Freeman:  Enjoy the moment, because when you wake up tomorrow it’s time to get ready (prepare) for the next one.  … … … this one was special ….  it required a lot of preparation, mental preparation … but … A GREAT VICTORY,   … IT DOESN’T REALLY DO ANYTHING FOR THE FUTURE.

… … we gotta (must) go to work tomorrow for the (next) opportunity we have next Saturday.   What you did today …   it’s the work you put in tomorrow, Monday through Friday (weekly) will determine how you play on Saturday, … not the last game.    … … (don’t let past success determine future outcomes).

… …  …

Ask about ranking and NCAA playoffs, 

“It really doesn’t matter where you are ranked (during the season), it ONLY MATTERS WHERE YOU ARE RANKED AT THE END OF THE (regular) SEASON.  We learned that last year.

Note: Notre Dame was ranked 13th at the end of the last season and missed being in the top 12 spots for the NCAA playoff games.

…. We always challenge each other on how we elevate our performance, … how do we get better … but our process is our process … … … .  We have to continue to do what we do, AND DO IT BETTER.   …  it doesn’t change … faith and  ….. trust the process will make you better.  If it doesn’t, then, we gotta look at how we change it … 

Question about halftime composure:  

Coach Freeman:  I had to struggle to keep my composure, … sometimes you gotta keep what is inside ( in your mind and emotions) and not let it come out … …you know it’s gonna be a challenge … … … .

With the score ND 24 – Miami 3, Coach states his thoughts: It’s gonna be a struggle, prepare for it … … .  We heard the players say to each other (repeatedly), “LET’S WIN THIS PLAY, LET’s WIN THIS PLAY, OVER AND OVER” … …  the score doesn’t matter, it’s the next play that matters. 

[ *** A Spurs weakness, after leads in the score during the game are gained … … .]   The ghost of complacency returns … much too often with the San Antonio Spurs.

 Ask about specific players:

Coach Freeman: …  he (player x, y, &z), does what he does (all the time) … they prepare everyday …  THIER GRADES (University class grades) reflect that … in school and on the field. These guys are CONSISTENT as football players, it’s because of the way they prepare … … .

Coach Freeman Speaks On: how statistics produce the game result… relentlessness,  … and moving forward.

WATCH THE THE ENTIRE INTERVIEW HERE>>> Coach Freeman … FULL PRESS CONFERECE

Lessons For The Spurs Team, Coaches, and Organization can be found in Notre Dame Head Football Coach  Marcus Freeman’s post game interview Nov. 7, 2027. 

This is how you determine ‘WHO YOU ARE’, as a team,  it’s how you think about it, this is how you  approach it … … … !

The Formula & Perspective To Team Success

The complete and entire Doctor Dunkenstein November 11, 2026 Chicago Bulls  SCOUTING REPORT:

“ASK COACH BILLY DONOVAN”!

Doctor Cricket Dunkenstein Basketball Presentations

REACHING THE MINDS OF YOUNG PRODIGY BEST IN THE WORLD BASKETBALL PLAYERS  … coming soon

IGNORING THE MEDIA & FANS … CREATING A BUBBLE

Ditch Mitch and Burn Big Red is now replaced with Ditch Mitch and Dump Donovon …  it’s best to ignore and avoid the fluctuating and usually incorrect sediments of the media and fans   … coming soon

WHAT YOU WILL REMBER! 

THE MOST … 

San Antonio

San Antonio Spurs 2027 Season Game 

Date: November 8, 2026

Doctor Dunkenstein Notes.

1) No basketball player has ever played the perfect game of basketball.  It is a game of  art that is never perfect. It can always be improved. 

2) No basketball TEAM has ever played the perfect game of basketball. 

Positives:

TEAM CHEMISTRY

UNSELFISH OFFENSIVE PLAY

Team chemistry is … ….  something difficult to explain ,   a group socialization of on the court and off the court.

 Periods of high production and out put offensively

Defensive 

Question: 

Running the floor … is it a weapon … it should be  …

Are you a good defensive team,  not yet …

San Antonio Spurs 2027 Season Game #3

Spurs @ Dallas mavericks

Date: Saturday  / Oct 24, 2026

Doctor Dunkenstein Notes.

1) No basketball player has ever played the perfect game of basketball.  It is a game of  art that is never perfect. It can always be improved. 

2) The key to beating a competitive opponent – a team of the same caliber of skill and performance – in a close basketball game is eliminating the number of mistakes.  Sometimes, it only takes eliminating one or two mistakes in order to win.   To win a close game against a good team the first priority is defensive performance.  Yet, most people do not evaluate an NBA team’s defense in their assessments.

Fans and media critics do not normally have any idea of how the entire game of basketball is actually played.  Not to mention how a team actually wins.  They are stimulated by peripherals: dunks, offense, and scores of three points shots.  The defense is rarely at the center of any media discussions. 

 In the post game 3 interview,  San Antonio Spurs Head Coach, Coach Mitch Johnson,  has again demonstrated that he is quite knowledgeable about the game of basketball and how it should be played by a winning San Antonio Spurs basketball team in the 2026-27 NBA season.  Most importantly he states, the San Antonio Spurs have a distance to travel in order to reach that level of play. 

Mentioning: 

1) Inconsistency throughout the games.  “The Floor” of performance.

2) Allowing Dallas 44 points in the paint,  too many inside points for any opposing team.  ( Team Defense).

3) “The Standard” of capability for the Spurs.

4) Habits … … … Energy …  Effort.

San Antonio Spurs 2027 Season Game #3  / (Team Record 1-2)

Date:  / Oct 26, 2026

Doctor Dunkenstein Notes:

NOTICABLE  POSITIVES

1)  Overall general EFFORT of ALL PLAYERS – at times it lapses and is inconsistent.

2)  Unselfish offensive play.

3) Victor’s attempt to have better footwork, stance and defensive movements. 

… … it looks as if Victor is attempting to play more in a basketball STANCE.   …. Attempts to use a PIVOT.  [THIS NEEDS LOTS OF WORK].  Victor’s effort to improve his off-ball defense is apparent.

 Rule: use a reverse pivot(s), then stretch and dig-slide, in your first defensive move, … don’t cross your feet, at least not until you have pivoted or applied a dig-slide-step, … crossing your feet actually makes you slower, and VERY unprepared for what comes next … it takes out basketball’s basic stance,  bent knees, active arms and hands, and balance, all of which is the preparation key for blocking shots …  it also makes it more difficult for the other players to push you around and knock you to the floor … … 

NEGATIVES: 

1)   No STRONGE  team-defensive off-ball adjustments and awareness.

2)  Victor Weembanyama: Still no POWER DROP STEP – or, post fundamentals in Victor,  … . however, it looks to me like Victor is trying to establish a post move, … … , [Ask me about the last play in Houston, it’s a perfect example of Victor’s inside post work, and the lack there of.] 

3)  Team defensive block out LAPSES, by everybody. 

You must think ahead, see what’s going on, who’s not blocked out, and BLOCK EVERYBODY /WITHIN 15 ft / OUT!  

4. In consistent defensive team in play adjustments … … 

RULE:  On a good basketball DEFENSIVE basketball team, EVERY player on the court – playing defense –  except the guy actually guarding the ball – should be in the correct position to first: guard his man, and second:  simultaneously ACTUALLY be guarding ALL five of the opposing players. (called the visual defensive triangle position).  The Spurs do not maintain this position consistently throughout the opposing teams offensive plays. 

THIS IS A DIFFICULT SKILL TO ACQUIRE!  It sounds simple, but it’s not, and it requires all five guys to perform it in order for it to make a difference. It takes some thinking by everybody to do it right, … all thinking the same thing … foresight, and team coordination.  … very difficult. 

The Spurs are applying initial defensive effort, but they are not , YET, a good TEAM defensive unit. 

Why?  … when you have Victor behind you, you should be much better at defense than most NBA teams.  The Spurs are not.   Well, why is a very good question … some of it is about how Victor moves on defense, some of it is basic defense team moves, positions, and slides, …  THEY COULD BE A VERY GOOD “D” TEAM, someday.

NOTE: If all the players on the team are correctly performing this basic defensive principle, EVERY TIME THE BALL MOVES,  a physical adjustment by ALL players is required!  Sometimes, that  adjustment of position is only a matter of inches, … …it could be an adjustment of sight, sometimes it’s a matter of moving quickly over a distance in an attempt to  cover a mistake or disadvantage of a teammate.  But everybody must be moving, together, in the right places, … … … .

STANDING, NOT MOVING AND WATCHING IS A BIG NBA basketball mistake.  MOST NBA players can’t play defensive off the ball at a high level.     Many are good even great on ball defensive players, but most NBA players lack off ball and team defense performance.  This missing element  is prevalent in the NBA. 

YOU DON’T GUARD A MAN, YOU GUARD A TEAM.

3) Victor … … he needs more … of getting his butt down, staying in a stance ,  he is getting pushed around less, … … trying to use his butt more … needs work …

A Victor SUGGESTION:  When setting a top screen on offense for the ball handler,  if the ball defense player goes underneath the screen, try a REVERSE PIVOT PIN MOVE, SLIDE , then run to the basket, ….  Victor is very good at just turning and going straight to the basket to dunk, but , create another extra alternate move, pivot and pin …, be more patient.  … maybe this works …

Note: Ask about the ‘OLDEST’ Play In the Game,  I think it would work perfectly as a set play with Victor Wembanyama and the team … … … 

The Plus-Minus (+/-) statistic in an NBA game measures a player’s net impact on the scoreboard by calculating the point differential between their team and the opponent while that player is actively on the court.

How It Works

• Calculation: It subtracts the opponent’s points scored from your team’s points scored during the exact minutes and seconds a specific player is on the floor.
• Positive Rating (+): If your team outscores the opponent by 10 points while a player is playing, they receive a +10 for that stretch (or game).
• Negative Rating (-): If the opponent outscores your team by 6 points while they are playing, they receive a -6.
• Cumulative Total: A player’s final game plus-minus is the sum of all individual point differentials across every shift they played during the match.
You can view game-by-game plus-minus totals directly in official box scores on platforms like NBA.com.

Key Characteristics

• Not Tied to Individual Scoring: A player can score 30 points and still finish with a negative plus-minus if the opponent goes on a massive scoring run while they are on the court. Conversely, a bench player who doesn’t score a single point can finish with a high positive plus-minus if their lineup defends well and builds a lead.

Team Chemistry

The Plus Minus Factor

The Defensive Gamble

Example: The end of the game steal of Dylan Harper, in Utah.

First, to allow a “GAME DETERMINING DEFENSIVE” gamble – a steal, a blocked shot

…. –  everyone must be fundamentally sound,  in the correct locations on the floor, doing the correct actions … sounds easy, … it is NOT easy.

this creates the opportunity .

It then must pay off, be completed.

It is a created acquired team defensive skill!

San Antonio Team Defense

The Defensive Gamble

Example: The end of the game steal of Dylan Harper, in Utah.

First, to allow a “GAME DETERMINING DEFENSIVE” gamble – a steal, a blocked shot

…. –  everyone must be fundamentally sound,  in the correct locations on the floor, doing the correct actions … sounds easy, … it is NOT easy.

this creates the opportunity .

It then must pay off, be completed.

It is a created acquired team defensive skill!

San Antonio Players

Bob Marley

Butch

Silky

The Baby Boys: 'Big Brown & Bustert Boy'

Mr. T ... ... ... the missing link

The Apostle Luke

The Vacillation Facilitator

The San Antonio Spurs Begin The 2027 Rollercoaster Ride

 Nov. 7, 2026   /   

WHAT THE AI ROBOTS ARE 

… saying, questioning, spewing on line regarding Wembanyama Online .com and its reporting on the first ten San Antonio Spurs games.

Spurs 2027 Season Journey

1 source·Nov 8, 2026

The provided sources offer a comprehensive early-season assessment of the San Antonio Spurs during the 2026-27 NBA campaign, tracking their journey from opening-night struggles to climbing the Western Conference standings. The texts analyze key performances and health updates surrounding star player Victor Wembanyama, alongside evaluations from head coach Mitch Johnson regarding team chemistry, defensive execution, and tactical adjustments. Furthermore, the commentary highlights intense divisional rivalries for Texas supremacy against the Dallas Mavericks and Houston Rockets, while also noting the franchise’s ongoing global expansion through upcoming international games in France and England.

 
Today • 2:21 PM

How is Victor Wembanyama performing during the early part of the 2027 season?

Thoughts
Victor Wembanyama’s performance during the early part of the 2026–27 season has featured historic individual peaks, outside shooting struggles, and recent health/injury challenges:
Key Highlights & Peak Performances
  • Dominant Outing vs. Dallas (Nov. 4): Victor delivered a marquee performance against the Mavericks, scoring a career-high 52 points along with 24 rebounds and 8 blocks, finishing with a +23 on-floor rating.
  • Elite Defensive & Rim Protection Impact: Even when his shot has been off, Wembanyama has been a defensive menace, recording 6 blocks in the opening game and 8 blocks in the Nov. 4 game against Dallas.
Early Season Struggles & Growth Areas
  • Rough Season Opener: In the opener against Oklahoma City, he struggled from the floor (1-for-13 FG, 12 points, 13 rebounds). He admitted post-game that missing early shots led to indecisiveness and overthinking, noting the need to get back to playing with joy.
  • 3-Point Shooting Cold Spell: Outside shooting has been a clear area for improvement, sitting at a career-worst 25% from 3-point range early in the season (including a 1-for-8 night from deep during his 52-point game).
  • Fundamentals & Positioning: Offensively and defensively, he has been actively working on maintaining a proper stance, using pivots, and improving off-ball positioning, though his post fundamentals (such as a power drop step) remain a work in progress.
Health and Recent Physical Setbacks
  • Illness: Wembanyama has been battling a cold/virus, sounding noticeably congested during post-game press conferences in early November.
  • Ankle Sprains: He has suffered two ankle sprains across recent back-to-back games in early November, raising concerns regarding his health and recovery regimen as the Spurs navigate a demanding road trip.

🏀 Would you like to explore how the Spurs’ overall team record and defense have fared through these early road games, or perhaps draft a detailed summary report of their season start?

 

 
 
 

What are Coach Mitch Johnson’s defensive goals for the team?

Thoughts
Coach Mitch Johnson’s defensive strategy and goals for the Spurs center on making defense the primary key to winning, raising the team’s baseline consistency, and fixing core structural lapses:
1. Establishing “The Standard” & Raising Performance Baseline
  • Defense as First Priority: Coach Johnson views defensive execution as the non-negotiable foundation required to beat quality NBA opponents in close games.
  • Eliminating Inconsistency (“The Floor”): He focuses heavily on eliminating in-game lulls and establishing a high baseline (“The Floor”) for team performance through sustained effort, energy, and proper habits.
2. Protecting the Paint
  • Limiting Inside Scoring: Johnson has specifically called out interior defensive lapses, noting that letting opposing teams score 44 points in the paint (as Dallas did) is unacceptable for their defense.
3. Sharp Transition Defense & High Accountability
  • Zero Tolerance for Transition Lapses: Coach Johnson holds the team accountable for immediate defensive transitions, calling tight timeouts to correct mistakes when opponents get open looks or 3-pointers on the break.
4. Five-Man Team Coordination & Disruption
  • Full-Court Energy & Ball-Screen Switching: He emphasizes continuous defensive disruption, including aggressive full-court pressing and clean switching on ball handlers over top screens.
  • Off-Ball & Rebounding Discipline: Recognizing that the team still has a distance to travel, his broader defensive targets include fixing defensive block-out lapses and improving off-ball positioning across all five players on the floor.

🛡️ Would you like to dig into how Victor Wembanyama’s individual defensive stats and rim protection compare to the team’s overall defensive metrics?

 

 
 
 

How is Victor Wembanyama’s footwork evolving?

Thoughts
Victor Wembanyama’s footwork is an active focus area in his early-season development, with analysts noting visible attempts to build more disciplined stance and positioning habits despite several areas remaining a work in progress:
Key Areas of Footwork Evolution & Focus
  • Playing in a Lower Basketball Stance: Victor is making a deliberate effort to lower his center of gravity, bend his knees, and maintain a true basketball stance for better balance. This has helped him get pushed around less in physical post and paint matchups.
  • Incorporating Pivots: He is actively trying to integrate pivots into his movement, though analysts emphasize that his pivot work is still in its early stages and “needs lots of work”.
  • Inside Post Moves & Power Drop Step: He is attempting to establish a reliable inside post game, though he currently lacks a polished power drop step and traditional post fundamentals.
  • Defensive Slides vs. Crossing Feet: On defense, analysts note he must focus on reverse pivots and dig-slides rather than crossing his feet. Crossing his feet reduces his lateral speed, compromises his base, and leaves him unprepared for quick rim protection or shot-blocking adjustments.
  • Screen-and-Roll Expansion: Offensively, analysts suggest adding reverse pivot-and-pin moves when setting screens against defenders who go under, giving him a patient counter-move beyond simply sprinting straight to the rim for a dunk.

👟 Would you like to explore how his footwork and physical mechanics connect to his recent ankle sprains during the road trip?

 

 
 
 

How is Victor handling his health and ankle sprains?

Thoughts
Victor Wembanyama’s handling of his health and physical recovery has become a key focal point during the Spurs’ early-season road stretch:
  • Playing Through Illness: Victor has been actively playing through a cold and virus, acknowledging his illness while appearing noticeably congested in recent post-game press conferences.
  • Managing Sprains on the Road: He suffered two separate ankle sprains across back-to-back games during the early road trip. Because of the tight game schedule, taking several days off to rest hasn’t been an option, forcing him to play through the discomfort.
  • Treatment & Recovery Routine: Analysts have pointed out that Victor often fulfills media obligations directly after games rather than immediately starting post-sprain icing protocols. Commentary in the sources highlights that proper management should emphasize immediate cold-water submersion, rest, hydration, and anti-inflammatories to limit swelling.
  • Long-Term Foot Care Philosophy: Victor takes a non-traditional approach to long-term foot care, having shared his foot muscle strength theories during a feature on 60 Minutes. While he advocates walking barefoot or in sandals to exercise foot muscles, commentators debate whether that provides sufficient support and natural posture for a player of his height.

🩺 Would you like to look into how the Spurs’ upcoming road schedule against Phoenix and Chicago might impact his recovery time?

 

 
 
 

What are the key matchups on the Spurs’ upcoming road trip?

Thoughts
Building on their recent success, the Spurs (8–2) head into the remaining leg of their multi-city road trip following back-to-back road wins over the Sacramento Kings (124–109) and the Portland Trail Blazers (125–103).
The key upcoming matchups on this road trip feature two distinct tests:
1. Phoenix Suns
  • Date & Venue: Monday, November 9, 2026 (8:00 PM CST) at Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, AZ.
  • Matchup Context: Phoenix is emphasized in the sources as a **”very physical, mature professional basketball team”**. Analyst commentary notes that after facing Houston on Nov. 7, the Suns present a heavy physical challenge, warning that the Spurs will need to “pack their big boy pants” to compete inside and pull off the win.
2. Chicago Bulls
  • Date & Venue: Wednesday, November 11, 2026 (7:00 PM CST) at United Center in Chicago, IL.
  • Matchup Context: This represents the final stop of the multi-game road swing. Following the Chicago game, the Spurs return to San Antonio for a home matchup against the Golden State Warriors.

Why These Games Matter
Analysts view this stretch as the primary early-season baseline test to determine **”Who the Spurs Are”**. Beyond the standings, these games will put the team’s full-court defensive press and block-out discipline to the test while monitoring how Victor Wembanyama handles back-to-back travel and physical play while recovering from his ankle sprains and cold

An NBA Basketball Season is analogous to an eight month roller coaster ride!  It’s long, it’s demanding and its always memorable.  Conclusions and thoughts about the season are accumulated and created only after the roller coaster ride is completed.  Drawing any conclusions as to how the ride will turn out in the first few games is not prudent. 

This presentation: “Enjoy The Ride” is a reflection of the first twelve (12) games of the San Antonio Spurs 2026-27 Season. 

Stealing a quote from a great baseball coach, Yogi Berra. it’s hard to make predictions, especially when they are in the future.

The Presentation Enjoy The Ride

Western Conference Standings  November 9, 2026

 The San Antonio Spurs continued their win streak with an eigth victory late Saturday night, beating the Portland Trail Blazers in Oregon  125-103. 

There are only two more requirements to complete a successful trip and visit to the Beaver State. (1) Travel safely to Phoenix, and (2) PACK YOUR BIG BOY PANTS!

Below are game highlights of the November 7, 2026 Phoenix Suns vs. the Houston Rockets NBA basketball game.  There were ten very skilled professional grown men playing in this game on the court from start to the very end.   Watch it! 

One team, the Rockets,  beat the San Antonio Spurs on Oct 22.  The other team, the Suns, want to beat the Spurs on Monday November 9th.  If the Spurs are going to deny the wishes of the Suns, they are  going to need  to out play a very physical mature professional basketball team.  So,  God Speed on the journey and don’t forget to Pack Your Big Boy Pants for the trip to Phoenix, Arizona.  You are going to need them … … … .

Now with a record of 8-2, the Spurs are moving toward the top of the Western Conference standings.  Only the outcome of Saturdays game in Portland is significant.  There is little time to ponder anything in the past.  All eyes must be focused forward on the NEXT NBA CONTEST as they immediately travel to Phoenix and Chicago.

The Spurs demonstrated a skillful full court press and  an intense effort of disruption defensively against the Blazers.  The outcome of the game was determined by the end of the third quarter as the starters took to the bench.   

Upcoming Opponents: :   (1) Phoenix Suns. (2) Chicago Bulls.  These two games are road games for the Spurs. Then, the Spurs return home to play (3) the Golden State Warriors.  As they say. “No Rest for the Wicked.”

The Spurs are providing an initial early season assessment regarding their actual early stages of development, team chemistry, strengths, weakness and make-up .  

Two observations from the Nov. 7th Portland game: 

  1. DEFENSE was strong.  Excellent Full Court defensive effort!  Nice job switching on the ball handler in the top screens.

2. Weak defensive block-outs as a team. 

Portland Trail Blazers

Saturday   /   Nov 7
Portland, OR

GAME #:  10   /   RESULT: WIN

San Antonio: 125   / Portland: 103

RECORD: 8-2

Phoenix Suns

Monday  Nov 9
8:00 PM CST
Mortgage Matchup Center
Phoenix, AZ  

GAME #:  10   / RESULT: 

San Antonio:   /   Portland:  

RECORD:

Chicago Bulls

Wednesday   Nov 11
7:00 PM CST
United Center
Chicago, IL

GAME #:  12   /   RESULT: 

San Antonio:   /   Chicago:

RECORD: 

PACK YOUR BIG BOY PANTS!

Western Conference Standings  November 7, 2026

San Antonio Spurs Game Interviews

YouTube:  @SanAntonioSpursPressConference

Sacramento  Kings

Friday   /   Nov 6   /   Sacramento, CA   / Cup Nights  West Group C

GAME #: 9   /  RESULT:  WIN

San Antonio:  124  / : 109   Sacramento

RECORD: 7-2

 The San Antonio Spurs continued their win streak with a seventh victory late Friday night, beating the Sacramento Kings in California, 124-109. 

Now with a record of 7-2, the Spurs are moving toward the top of the Western Conference standings.  Only the outcome is significant.  There is little time to ponder anything in the past.  All eyes must be focused forward on the airplane emergency instructions and the NEXT NBA CONTEST as they immediately travel to Portland for a back-to-back, followed by trips to Phoenix and Chicago.

The Spurs are facing their first significant road test with no time to dawdle around before taking on the Portland Trailblazers, who are 6-2 on the season,  Saturday in Portland.

In the next few games, Doctor Cricket Dunkenstein is hopeful to gain an introspective of just “Who The Spurs Are”, at this moment in the season.  This is not to be confused with drawing conclusions as to “Who the San Antonio Spurs Will Be” in the future.  

Upcoming Opponents: :  (1) Portland Trailblazers, (2) Phoenix Suns. (3) Chicago Bulls.  These three games are road games for the Spurs.

Initial early season assesments regarding the actual early stages of development, team chemistry, strengths, weakness and make-up of the San Antonio Basketball team should become more apparent after these next  difficult upcoming road games. 

Two observations: 

1. Victor Wembanyama is not healthy.  He stated he has had a virus, and a cold in the past few days.  He sounds very congested in his post game interview on Nov. 7th.

2. Wembanyama has sprained his ankle two times in the last two games.  

Question:  Why is the Spurs medical staff not performing total foot ice water submersion on a sprained ankle for 15 minutes immediately after the game concludes? Immediately!  Yes,  ice must be applied to a sprain ankle, then, take a 15 minutes break from the ice, let the foot warm-up  – then apply 5 to 8 minutes back in cold ice water, or use an ice bag, … ALWAYS start in cold, end in cold, always for first 48 hours after any sprain,  no heat for 48 hours … Also, applying an ice bag for a few minutes, after a few hours, again, in the hotel … this is the required positive sprain ankle basketball, no time between games. standard procedure.  Everyone knows this is a STANDARD ankle sprain response.  (Ask Chip Shaeffer).

The best treatment for a sprained ankle is to avoid use, for a few days, and ice, but that’s not available due to games, is it.

How does Doc Dunkenstein know this?  Because Victor is talking to the press while he should be icing.  Further, Doctor Dunkenstein has had hundreds, yes, hundreds,  of ankle sprains on the basketball court.  What’s up with ‘DAT’?

Oh, by the way, Europeans have no idea how to use ICE in sports injuries!  How does Doctor Dunkenstein know that to be factual, years of basketball experience in Europe.

For entertainment, ask me, about the myth of MJ’s flu game 6 in SLC?  Big media myth!  MJ had altitude sickness from multiple elevation quick changes travelling by car, multiple times from downtown SLC to Deer Valley Resort.  Further MJ played golf on the same day. 

Victor Wembanyama is not healthy at this moment in time. 

ICE ICE BABY   ….  steam room, sleep, sleep, eat, eat healthy foods, fruits and veggies, and drink, drink, drink, juice, juice juice,  Doctor Dunkensteins prescription.  USE Ibuprofen or aspirin if it swells … not dope needed … get well soon.

Didn’t you tell the World how much of a foot specialist you are on 60 minutes?   Ummm,    yes, your theory about foot muscles is correct.  But,  barefoot and sandals are debatable proper foot care and a debatable proper exercise of foot muscles.  Walking as such is not a natural foot posture, unless you were in the cave man age.  

I’ll send you my medical bill, Victor. (humor intended)

Portland Trail Blazers

Saturday   /   Nov 7
9:00 PM CST
Moda Center
Portland, OR

GAME #:  10   /   RESULT: 

San Antonio:    / Portland: 

RECORD:

Phoenix Suns

Monday  Nov 9
8:00 PM CST
Mortgage Matchup Center
Phoenix, AZ  

GAME #:  10   / RESULT: 

San Antonio:   /   Portland:  

RECORD:

Chicago Bulls

Wednesday   Nov 11
7:00 PM CST
United Center
Chicago, IL

GAME #:  12   /   RESULT: 

San Antonio:   /   Chicago:

RECORD: 

Road Trips & Paper Cups

San Antonio Spurs Game Interviews

YouTube:  @SanAntonioSpursPressConference

Post game interviews, Head Coach Mitch Johnson, Dylan Harper, and Victor Wembanyama.

Reflecting on his 21 points and 9 for 15 feilf goals, Dylan Harper praised the play of his teammates, singling out Wembanyama and De’Aaron Fox.  Unintentionally humoring the room with his remarks, Harper found himself drawing comparisons regarding the ‘advanced age’ of Wemby (22) and Fox (30) relative to his age of (20).

Coach Mitch Johnson expressed satisfaction with the overall team effort, offensive paint play and made a point as he mentioned that the team is now, “getting out of the starting blocks and becoming use to the early season NBA grind.”  As usual, Coach Johnson stated individual areas of strength and weakness from his initial perspective of the live game. 

The team awarded Coach Johnson with the game ball and showered him with water, marking his 100th NBA game victory as a Head basketball coach.

Interestingly and importantly, all of the post game interviewees mentioned, a need to watch “TAPE” to gain a more comprehensive perspective than those gathered during live participation.  

The Dallas Mavericks (4-4) fell to the San Antonio Spurs (6-2), 112-111, in a nationally televised matchup on the road on Wednesday. The two squads met for the second time, and it came after the Mavericks’ 115-100 blunder against the Sacramento Kings on Monday. The matchup went down to the wire after the Mavericks were able to turn around a 19-point deficit.

The Spurs inability to maintain double digit leads remains an issue for the team.

Cooper Flagg’s Monday night struggles flowed into Wednesday night’s performance. He started the game 1-of-11 in the first half, … … . For most of the first few games of the 2026-27 season Flagg has performed exceptionally well.  As the game became closer in the fourth quarter, Flagg demonstrated his skills.

Dallas Mavericks

Wednesday   /   Nov 4   /     /  San Antonio, TX   /  

GAME #:  8   /  RESULT:  WIN

San Antonio:  112   /    Dallas: 111

RECORD: 6-2

Sacramento  Kings

Friday   /   Nov 6   /   :00 PM CST
Golden 1 Center   /   Sacramento, CA   / Cup Nights  West Group C

GAME #: 9   /  RESULT: 

San Antonio:     /    Sacramento

RECORD: 

Garth (a.k.a. Victor Wembanyam) came dressed in his Halloween attire to wage for destruction.  He proceeded to score 52 points, and have 24 rebounds,  in destruction of the Dallas Mavericks.

To date, the San Antonio Spurs have beaten the Dallas Mavericks twice this season and lost to Houston in the season opener.  There are five remaining contests between the Spurs and the other two Texas NBA teams.  The Houston Rockets appear to be a significant challenge during the season as they now have a record of 7-2. The Dallas Mavericks are 4-4

The San Antonio Spurs continued their six game win streak on Wednesday night beating the Dallas Maverick 112-111 in San Antonio.  Now with a record of 6-2, the train is out of the station rolling forward and the Spurs have avoided playing behind an early season eight ball. 

Garth (a.k.a. Victor Wembanyam)

Going a bismal 1 for 8 from behind the three point line, Victor Wembanyama scored a career high 52 points in Wednesday’s game with the Mavs.  Wembanyama- added an impressive 8 blocks and 24 rebounds to his results.  In the post game interview, Wemby reflected that he has been sick lately and expressed his room for improvement.  He pointed out upon a quick glance his satisfaction with his +23 on floor rating.  Considering an anticipated improvement of  his worst career 3 point shooting percentage of  25%,  Wemby expects improvement.

Portland Trail Blazers

Saturday   /   Nov 7
9:00 PM CST
Moda Center
Portland, OR

GAME #:  10   /   RESULT: 

San Antonio:    / Portland: 

RECORD:

Phoenix Suns

Monday  Nov 9
8:00 PM CST
Mortgage Matchup Center
Phoenix, AZ  

GAME #:  10   / RESULT: 

San Antonio:   /   Portland:  

RECORD:

Chicago Bulls

Wednesday   Nov 11
7:00 PM CST
United Center
Chicago, IL

GAME #:  12   /   RESULT: 

San Antonio:   /   Chicago:

RECORD: 

The RATH of Garth

Individual Player Statistics

 San Antonio Spurs NBA  2026-27 Basketball Season as of November 3, 2026

Victor Wembanyama’s  San Antonio Spurs NBA  2026-27 Basketball Season Stats as of November 3, 2-26

Spurs Get Into The Win Column

San Antonio Spurs Game Interviews

YouTube:  @SanAntonioSpursPressConference

San Antonio Spurs Game Interviews

YouTube:  @SanAntonioSpursPressConference

  Utah Jazz

Monday  / Nov 2   /     San Antonio, TX  / 

GAME #:  7   /   RESULT:  WIN 

San Antonio:  121  /    SLC Jazz: 97

RECORD:  5-2

Dallas Mavericks

Wednesday   /   Nov 4   /   8:30 PM CST   /   Frost Bank Center   /  San Antonio, TX   /  TV: ESPN

GAME #:  8   /  RESULT: 

San Antonio:      /    Dallas

RECORD: 

Sacramento  Kings

Friday   /   Nov 6   /   :00 PM CST
Golden 1 Center   /   Sacramento, CA   / Cup Nights  West Group C

GAME #: 9   /  RESULT: 

San Antonio:     /    Sacramento

RECORD: 

The San Antonio Spurs continued their three-game homestand on Monday night and used two strong quarters to put away the Utah Jazz, earning the 119-97 win at the Frost Bank Center. The win is the fifth straight for San Antonio, who defeated the Jazz for the second time in nearly a week.

San Antonio set the tone from the opening tip, being aggressive by slicing into the paint at every chance and using their signature ball movement to find the open man for a shot. Defensively, the Spurs put together their best quarter of the season so far, holding Utah to 16 points, the lowest they’ve allowed in the first quarter this season, and 27 percent shooting.

The second quarter saw Utah make a run, cutting the Spurs’ lead to 36-35. Spurs head coach Mitch Johnson was furious and called a timeout, pounding his fist into his hands in frustration as his team walked over to the bench. After that timeout, San Antonio responded with a 14-5 run to take a 50-40 lead and would eventually go into the locker room with some motivation to put the game away in the second half.

San Antonio opened the second half by outscoring Utah 21-18, but another timeout from Coach Johnson saw him not happy with his team’s transition defense as Keyonte George hit a three in transition. The Spurs responded by closing the quarter on a 23-11 run to take full control going into the final 12 minutes.

“Just not getting bored on what was working,” San Antonio guard Stephon Castle said after the game when asked about the second half surge. “I think we came back out in the 2nd half and brought that same kind of energy.”

The Spurs were led by a balanced attack as seven players were in double figures by the final horn

San Antonio Spurs Find The Win Column

November 1, 2026

Topic: Victor Wembanyama 60 Minutes Interview

On Sunday, The infamous national Television program aired their Victor Wembanyama interview.  A nation – who is not entirely interested  nor necessarily tuned into the professional basketball news of the NBA –  got an indepth personal glimpse into the 22 year old San Antonio Spurs basketball star.

Topics of discussion ranged from his foot care to his feelings about living in the United States.  Wembanyama, once again demonstrated, that he is not only an unusually unique athlete but he is an intellectual with an eclectic perspective over much more than just basketball. 

Spurs teammate, Luke Kornet,  was ask recently how one might stop Wembanyama, – as a basketball player on the court – Luke’s response was, “that’s easy, just stop and start asking him intellectual interesting questions and you can stop him in his tracks for a long conversation.” 

60 Minutes did just that in an interview that could have remained interesting for much longer than just a single hour.

san-antonio-team-stats.
san-antonio-team-stats.

The dilemma of always insisting on the 3 point shot and standing behind the line.

Some players who insist on standing behind the line and taking a 3 point shot, MIGHT be better off , “ON THE MOVE”,  taking a dribble and then shooting.

For example, just like the gun slinger Sundance in the video above. 

Sundance could NOT hit anything while firing his gun just standing still, however, he could NOT miss when he was ‘on the move’!

Two such players on the Spurs basketball team come to mind, … … … 

A made two point shot, off the dribble, is 2 points better than a missed 3 point shot.  

Stats do not take in consideration the complete and total effect and affect a scored basket has on the flow or outcome of the game. 

There are no ‘STATS” on applying the ‘Sindance Kid’ shooting method to taking 3 points shots. 

Stats do NOT demonstrate what a made 2 point shot, ( or, more so two made 2 points shots), does to an individual player, as opposed to missing a three point shot, (or as statistics prove, missing 2 out of every three 3 point shots)!

There are no stats indicating what applying the ‘Sundance Kid Shooting Method’, and making a two point basket does to a player mentally after he has missed 3 or 4 three point shot attempts. 

A good NBA offensive player should easily be able to hit 53% of his 16 foot jump shots, off the dribble!

A good NBA offensive player should most always, if open for a three point shot, be able to take a single dribble, (or 2), and remain open for a higher percentage closer shot. 

DOES IT REALLY PAY TO BE IN LOVE WITH THE THREE POINT SHOT – IGNORING OTHER SHOT OPTIONS.  

The Core Conflict

• The Math: Analytics prove that shooting 35% from the three-point line yields the same points-per-possession (1.05) as shooting 52.5% from a two-point range. This makes the 3-pointer statistically superior to mid-range shots.

• The Dilemma: When teams insist too rigidly on the 3-point shot, defenses can easily anticipate the game plan. If players run into a cold shooting night, the lack of a mid-range or inside alternative can stall the entire offense.

The Spurs 3 point percentage:  (35.7%) WON, ( 32.4%) LOST, **(27%)LOST, (45.9%) WON, (38%) WON.  

LIVE or DIE by the 3, or push hard against the opponent consistently by 53% of 15 foot jumpers.  You decide … … 

Many other factors improve on missed 15 foot shots, compared to missed 3’s.  Such as, offense rebounding, getting back on defense, control of the game … …

Playing Behind The 8 Ball

Sacramento Kings

Tuesday  / Oct 27   /  Frost Bank Center / San Antonio vs Sacramento  

GAME #:  4  / RESULT: WIN

San Antonio : 130  /   Sacramento :  103

Spurs RECORD: 2-2

Utah Jazz

Wednesday   /   Oct 28   /  Salt Lake City, UT   /

GAME #:  5  RESULT:  WIN

San Antonio : 117  / Utah Jazz : 111 OT

Spurs RECORD: 3-2

Minnesota  Timberwolves

Saturday  /   Oct 31   /   7:00 PM CDT   /   Frost Bank Center  / San Antonio, TX

GAME #:  6  /  RESULT: WIN

San Antonio:   121    /    Minnesota: 111

Spurs RECORD: 4-2

  Utah Jazz

Monday  / Nov 2   /   7:30 PM CST   /  Frost Bank Center   /  San Antonio, TX  / 

GAME #:  7   /   RESULT: 

San Antonio:    /    SLC

RECORD: 

Dallas Mavericks

Wednesday   /   Nov 4   /   8:30 PM CST   /   Frost Bank Center   /  San Antonio, TX   /  TV: ESPN

GAME #:  8   /  RESULT: 

San Antonio:      /    Dallas

RECORD: 

Sacramento  Kings

Friday   /   Nov 6   /   :00 PM CST
Golden 1 Center   /   Sacramento, CA   / Cup Nights  West Group C

GAME #: 9   /  RESULT: 

San Antonio:     /    Sacramento

RECORD: 

The San Antonio Spurs  OVERCAME an unexpected early season challenge in their next s12 games after their first NBA  2026-27  challenge. 

Victory was the required outcome in the vast majority of the  NBA games in the first 4 weeks.  It is all about NOT playing behind the eight ball! 

An idiom taken from the game of billiards (pool) and often applied to sports, indicating  a position of disadvantage, a situation of difficulty.  The Spurs need to win in the next few games in order to play from an advantageous position in the NBA standings, not with the difficulties of losing games.   The Spurs avoided playing behind the 8 ball!

PLAYING BEHIND THE 8 BALL

• Disadvantage: You are starting or operating at a severe disadvantage compared to others.

• Setbacks: Past delays, financial trouble, or missed deadlines have left you struggling to catch up.

• Synonyms: Being “in a pickle,” “snookered,” or “between a rock and a hard place

San Antonio Spurs Overcome Early Season Challenge Go On Win Streak

"Playing Behind The 8 Ball"

San Antonio Spurs Game Interviews

YouTube:  @SanAntonioSpursPressConference

The San Antonio Spurs

San Antonio Spurs Game Interviews

YouTube:  @SanAntonioSpursPressConference

Oklahoma City Thunder

Oct 20
8:30 PM CDT
San Antonio VS  Oklahoma City Thunder

GAME #:  1

RESULT: LOSS

San Antonio: 104  /   Oklahoma :  116

Spurs RECORD: 0-1

Houston RocketsFriday
Oct 23
@ Moody Center / Austin, TX
San Antonio VS Houston Rockets

GAME #:  2

RESULT: LOSS

San Antonio : 110  /   Houston : 114

Spurs RECORD: 0-2

Dallas Mavericks

Oct 24
San Antonio @ Dallas Mavericks

GAME #:  3

RESULT: WIN

San Antonio : 122  /   Dallas: 106

Spurs RECORD: 1-2

The San Antonio Spurs acquired the teams first victory of the season on Oct. 23, 2026.  the loss of the first two games of the season to the OKC Thunder and the Houston Rockets presented an unexpected early season challenge  prior to their first NBA  2026-27 Basketball Season victory on Friday night, Oct. 23rd,  in Dallas against the Mavericks.

The San Antonio Spurs are navigating the start of their 2026–27 NBA season, embarking on a demanding eight-month journey that began with early losses to the Thunder and Rockets before securing a victory against the Mavericks. Led by star player Victor Wembanyama and head coach Mitch Johnson, the squad is working to address early inconsistencies, particularly in team defense and offensive execution, to avoid a disadvantageous position in the standings.

Analysts note:  that while Wembanyama is striving to improve his physical stance and post-game movements, the entire roster must sharpen their collective coordination and reduce errors to succeed.

Victory is the required outcome in the next upcoming games over the next two weeks.  Coach Mitch Johnson addressed just how and what the San Antonio Spurs must do to win.  

San Antonio Spurs 2027 Season Game #3

Spurs @ Dallas mavericks

Date: Saaturday  / Oct 24, 2026

Doctor Dunkenstein Notes.

1) No basketball player has ever played the perfect game of basketball.  It is a game of  art that is never perfect. It can always be improved. 

2) The key to beating a competitive opponent – a team of the same caliber of skill and performance – in a close basketball game is eliminating the number of mistakes.  Sometimes, it only takes eliminating one or two mistakes in order to win.   To win a close game against a good team the first priority is defensive performance.  Yet, most people do not evaluate an NBA team’s defense in their assessments.

Fans and media critics do not normally have any idea of how the entire game of basketball is actually played.  Not to mention how a team actually wins.  They are stimulated by peripherals: dunks, offense, and scores of three points shots.  The defense is rarely at the center of any media discussions. 

 In the post game 3 interview,  San Antonio Spurs Head Coach, Coach Mitch Johnson,  has again demonstrated that he is quite knowledgeable about the game of basketball and how it should be played by a winning San Antonio Spurs basketball team in the 2026-27 NBA season.  Most importantly he states, the San Antonio Spurs have a distance to travel in order to reach that level of play. 

Mentioning: 

1) Inconsistency throughout the games.  “The Floor” of performance.

2) Allowing Dallas 44 points in the paint,  too many inside points for any opposing team.  ( Team Defense).

3) “The Standard” of capability for the Spurs.

4) Habits … … … Energy …  Effort.

San Antonio Spurs 2027 Season Game #3  / (Team Record 1-2)

Date:  / Oct 26, 2026

Doctor Dunkenstein Notes:

NOTICABLE  POSITIVES

1)  Overall general EFFORT of ALL PLAYERS – at times it lapses and is inconsistent.

2)  Unselfish offensive play.

3) Victor’s attempt to have better footwork, stance and defensive movements. 

… … it looks as if Victor is attempting to play more in a basketball STANCE.   …. Attempts to use a PIVOT.  [THIS NEEDS LOTS OF WORK].  Victor’s effort to improve his off-ball defense is apparent.

 Rule: use a reverse pivot(s), then stretch and dig-slide, in your first defensive move, … don’t cross your feet, at least not until you have pivoted or applied a dig-slide-step, … crossing your feet actually makes you slower, and VERY unprepared for what comes next … it takes out basketball’s basic stance,  bent knees, active arms and hands, and balance, all of which is the preparation key for blocking shots …  it also makes it more difficult for the other players to push you around and knock you to the floor … … 

NEGATIVES: 

1)   No STRONGE  team-defensive off-ball adjustments and awareness.

2)  Victor Weembanyama: Still no POWER DROP STEP – or, post fundamentals in Victor,  … . however, it looks to me like Victor is trying to establish a post move, … … , [Ask me about the last play in Houston, it’s a perfect example of Victor’s inside post work, and the lack there of.] 

3)  Team defensive block out LAPSES, by everybody. 

You must think ahead, see what’s going on, who’s not blocked out, and BLOCK EVERYBODY /WITHIN 15 ft / OUT!  

4. In consistent defensive team in play adjustments … … 

RULE:  On a good basketball DEFENSIVE basketball team, EVERY player on the court – playing defense –  except the guy actually guarding the ball – should be in the correct position to first: guard his man, and second:  simultaneously ACTUALLY be guarding ALL five of the opposing players. (called the visual defensive triangle position).  The Spurs do not maintain this position consistently throughout the opposing teams offensive plays. 

THIS IS A DIFFICULT SKILL TO ACQUIRE!  It sounds simple, but it’s not, and it requires all five guys to perform it in order for it to make a difference. It takes some thinking by everybody to do it right, … all thinking the same thing … foresight, and team coordination.  … very difficult. 

The Spurs are applying initial defensive effort, but they are not , YET, a good TEAM defensive unit. 

Why?  … when you have Victor behind you, you should be much better at defense than most NBA teams.  The Spurs are not.   Well, why is a very good question … some of it is about how Victor moves on defense, some of it is basic defense team moves, positions, and slides, …  THEY COULD BE A VERY GOOD “D” TEAM, someday.

NOTE: If all the players on the team are correctly performing this basic defensive principle, EVERY TIME THE BALL MOVES,  a physical adjustment by ALL players is required!  Sometimes, that  adjustment of position is only a matter of inches, … …it could be an adjustment of sight, sometimes it’s a matter of moving quickly over a distance in an attempt to  cover a mistake or disadvantage of a teammate.  But everybody must be moving, together, in the right places, … … … .

STANDING, NOT MOVING AND WATCHING IS A BIG NBA basketball mistake.  MOST NBA players can’t play defensive off the ball at a high level.     Many are good even great on ball defensive players, but most NBA players lack off ball and team defense performance.  This missing element  is prevalent in the NBA. 

YOU DON’T GUARD A MAN, YOU GUARD A TEAM.

3) Victor … … he needs more … of getting his butt down, staying in a stance ,  he is getting pushed around less, … … trying to use his butt more … needs work …

A Victor SUGGESTION:  When setting a top screen on offense for the ball handler,  if the ball defense player goes underneath the screen, try a REVERSE PIVOT PIN MOVE, SLIDE , then run to the basket, ….  Victor is very good at just turning and going straight to the basket to dunk, but , create another extra alternate move, pivot and pin …, be more patient.  … maybe this works …

Note: Ask about the ‘OLDEST’ Play In the Game,  I think it would work perfectly as a set play with Victor Wembanyama and the team … … … 

San Antonio Spurs Achieve Victory #1 in 2026-27 Season

Opening Night 2027 Spurs vs Thunder

The San Antonio Spurs  NBA  2026-27 Basketball Season

Game #1

San Antonio Spurs 2027 Season Kickoff Game #1 of 82 games.
·
Date: Oct 20, 2026


The San Antonio Spurs have officially launched their 2026-27 NBA season, kicking off an eight-month campaign that immediately began with a high-stakes rematch against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Although the Spurs suffered a 116-104 opening-night defeat to their fierce rivals amid a fiery second-quarter altercation, the team enters the year with a talented roster featuring stars like Victor Wembanyama and De’Aaron Fox.

Following the 116–104 loss, Wembanyama met with reporters and candidly owned up to a difficult shooting performance (1-for-13 FG, 12 points, 13 rebounds, 6 blocks), attributing his night on offense to hesitation and overthinking on the floor.
Key themes from his press conference:
Admitting Hesitancy & Overthinking: According to reports from Yardbarker and Fadeaway World, Wembanyama shared that missing early shots made him indecisive, stating: “I missed lots of shots which I usually don’t miss… I was indecisive. I might be overthinking it. I feel like it’s a chance for me to really let go.”
Refocusing on Enjoying the Game: He emphasized a need to return to his natural style of play: “I need to go back to playing the basketball I like, this is not the sport I like right here. I’ve got no reason to be hesitant, no reason to not be myself… I’m good when I have fun.”

Ultimately, while early-season losses cannot define the outcome of such a demanding journey, the club remains poised for another memorable championship pursuit both at home and abroad.

What happened during the heated opening game between the Spurs and Thunder?  Victor Wembanyama and De’Aaron Fox were hit with a technical fouls.   

.
Game Context: The win gave Oklahoma City revenge after losing Game 7 of the previous Western Conference Finals to San Antonio, led by a strong statement performance from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
.

Thoughts post-game:  ‘It’s A Long Season’, but it is my guess that one game will matter in the assignment of playoff teams at the end of the season. 

The San Antonio Spurs  NBA  2026-27 Basketball Season

San Antonio Spurs 2027 Season Game # 2

Spurs vs. Rockets

Date: Friday  / Oct 23, 2026

The San Antonio Spurs lost Friday nights game in Austin , Texas by four points.  Down 2 points with 5 seconds remaining in the game, Victor Wembanyama had his shot blocked by Green.

The Spurs remain winless after the first two games of the 2026-27 NBA basketball season. 

Tonight, Oct 24th, the Spurs travel to Dallas to take on the Mavericks.

San Antonio Basketball Season Is Underway

Frost Bank Arena

Frost Bank Center, San Antonio Texas, USA.  Home court for the 2026-27 San Antonio Spurs.

Frost Bank Entrance
spurs-2026-27-team-roster

THE STRENGTH OF TEAM

San Antonio Spurs 2026-27 Team Photograph Media Day
The Strength & Chemistry of The 2027 San Antonio Basketball Team

December 2026 

January 2027 

February 2027 

March / April 2027 

San Antonio Upcoming Game Schedule … BY MONTH

  [  VS = Home Game / @ = Away Game ]    /     / Nov. 2026 

San Antonio Spurs 2026 - 27 Rookies

Four new rookies were added to the San Antonio Spurs 2027 organization. Frist round picks Jayden Quaintance and Tarris Reed Jr, along with Ja’Kobi Gullesespie and Maliq Brown.

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