The San Antonio Spurs have gone from initial uncertainty to becoming the team to beat. After starting the season with two losses, the Texas-based squad has strung together 10 consecutive victories—a run that has brought their record to 10-2 and firmly established them near the top of the Western Conference. What began as a stumble has transformed into one of the most impressive streaks in the NBA today, matching a feat previously achieved only by the 2017-18 Celtics: starting 0-2 and then winning 10 straight games.
The driving force behind this streak is Victor Wembanyama. Over these 10 wins, the French center has averaged 32.6 points, 11.4 rebounds, and 4.5 blocks per game—stats that mark him as the league’s most impactful player on both ends of the floor. His ability to protect the rim while simultaneously punishing opponents on offense has served as the foundation for the team’s success.
Performances such as his 40-point, 9-block outing against Phoenix, or his 32 points and 5 blocks during the comeback against Chicago, highlight an impact that transcends mere statistics. His presence on the court has resulted in a +225 point differential for the Spurs, a clear testament to his direct influence on the outcome of games.
This streak would not have been possible without the growth of the rest of the roster. Dylan Harper has emerged as the team’s second key contributor, averaging 18 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game. He has also demonstrated a level of leadership that was on full display during the third quarter against the Bulls, when the Spurs overcame a 22-point deficit. The presence of De'Aaron Fox (14.2 points and 6.2 assists) and Stephon Castle (14.0 points) ensures a creative second unit that sustains the team's offensive pace. Additionally, Julian Champagnie has shot 43.6% from three-point range, spacing the floor for his teammates to drive to the basket. This depth has allowed coach Mitch Johnson to maintain a competitive level of play even when the starters are resting.
The coach has been clear: the key to this turnaround has been physical intensity and defensive communication. In the first half against Chicago, the Spurs lacked resistance, but after the break, they ignited an 18-3 run in the third quarter—forcing five turnovers and completely shifting the momentum of the game. This ability to make adjustments and ramp up aggression has been a consistent theme throughout their current winning streak.
Another factor contributing to this success is a shift in playing style. The team’s field-goal percentage has climbed from 47.3% (11th in the league) before the streak to 50.1% (2nd) during it. Furthermore, the pace of play has increased significantly, rising from 100.4 to 104.0 possessions per 48 minutes, establishing the Spurs as one of the most dynamic teams in the league.
Ball movement—highlighted by Harper and Fox combining for 19 assists in the last game—has been essential for creating open shots and keeping every player involved.
A streak defined by road success and external recognition
The Spurs have built this streak with a perfect 6-0 record on the road, including a four-game trip that concluded with a victory in Chicago. This ability to win away from home reflects the maturity and confidence of the group. Charles Barkley himself has publicly stated that, given the injuries affecting Oklahoma City, the Spurs are now the team to beat in the NBA. Their 10-game winning streak has not only shifted the standings but also changed external perceptions: San Antonio has evolved from a promising project into a serious title contender. With Wembanyama playing at an MVP level and a supporting cast that has learned to trust one another and play as a cohesive unit, the question is no longer whether the Spurs can compete, but rather how far they can go.
Credits: I used Google Translate.