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Spurs make playoff history not seen since 2008

Originally posted on NBA on ClutchPoints
By Paolo Mariano, ClutchPoints | Last updated Apr 9, 2026 12:10 AM ET

The San Antonio Spurs entered the season with supreme confidence that they could finally end their six-year drought in the playoffs. With Victor Wembanyama suiting up in his third season, Stephon Castle fresh from winning Rookie of the Year, and coach Mitch Johnson in his first full campaign at the helm, all signs pointed to a positive direction.

But they perhaps did not fully expect to be this good.

Not only did they return to the playoffs—with a chance to get the top seed in the Western Conference—but the Spurs also reached 60 wins for the first time since 2016-2017.

It is quite the improvement for San Antonio, which only had 34 wins last season. The Spurs became only the fourth team in league history to reach 60 wins after missing the playoffs the season prior, joining the Boston Celtics (2007-2008 and 1979-1980) and the Phoenix Suns (2004-2005).

Teams to win 60+ games after missing the playoffs the season prior:

2025-26 Spurs
2007-08 Celtics
2004-05 Suns
1979-80 Celtics pic.twitter.com/4EM2p5JQNP

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) April 9, 2026

The Spurs improved to 61-19 on Wednesday after beating the Portland Trail Blazers, 112-101.

With Wembanyama having an MVP-type season, Castle improving in his sophomore stint, De’Aaron Fox providing steadiness and leadership, and Devin Vassell, Keldon Johnson, Julian Champagnie, Harrison Barnes, Dylan Harper, and Luke Kornet completely buying into their roles, the Spurs have been nothing short of impressive.

It is also a testament to the culture Johnson has built, living up to the famous “Spurs Way” paved by his legendary predecessor, Gregg Popovich.

While it is premature to compare the current team to the dynasty Popovich built, it is hard to ignore the similarities and appreciate the potential of Wembanyama and company. Wembanyama has shut down the talk about their lack of experience.

The Spurs are back, and it is a scary sight for the rest of the NBA.

This article first appeared on NBA on ClutchPoints and was syndicated with permission.

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