San Antonio Spurs: The Evolution of the System

By Anthony Groves
- Tweet
- Pin It
Updated: January 2, 2013

San+Antonio+Spurs+v+Phoenix+Suns+tA5UByzusXpl

When we think of the San Antonio Spurs, we think of excellence. How can’t we? In the last decade, they have the highest winning percentage amongst American sports teams. It all starts in the front office combo with general manager R.C. Buford and Vice President of Basketball Operations/Head Coach Gregg Popovich. You can’t however, forget about the Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili, and Tony Parker. The trio have constantly helped Spurs remain competitive in the tough, gritty Western Conference, with a couple roster changes and change in the play-style.

To reflect more in the change in play-style; during their championship years, specifically in 2003, 2005, and 2007, they were known as a gritty, defensive team with Bruce Bowen being the anchor. During those years, they were also known as a “boring” team. They were the type of team that if they scored at least 95 points in a game, they were going to win nine times out of 10. They were also a team that rarely beat themselves in games. Due to their veteran presence, and credit to Gregg Popovich, they always the upper-edge mentally against their opponents.

Nowadays, the Spurs are more known to be a high octane offense. Led by point guard Tony Parker. In years past, Tim Duncan was the focal point in their offensive scheme. Now, the offense goes through Parker and Ginobili. Although, they have made improvements defensively with rising star Kawhi Leonard being the best lockdown defender on the team. One thing is for sure, this team is significantly better than last season. If they can grab a big man at the deadline, they’ll be the favorites in the West.

Anthony Groves

I've been apart of the Pro Sports Extra family since July of 2012. When I first got here, my role was very small. I joined the team as an analyst, but as time passed, my role eventually increased. As of today, I'm the co-host on the website's online radio show, I'm the lead NBA writer, I'm apart of the social media team, and in November of 2012, I was named Manager. I can honestly say that I'm happy in what I do. I have a vision for Pro Sports Extra, and I will do whatever it takes to make sure that vision comes true. We've had our tribulations, but we're recovering from it and it was truly a blessing in disguise. I'm from Flint, Michigan and unlike most Michiganders - I'm a Spurs fan (perfectly normal, right?) I'm currently a junior in high school and I plan on attending Ferris State University or Michigan State University. I'm going to major in journalism and it's a goal of mine to achieve a doctorate in that field. I'm constantly involved in the social media world and you can find me on Twitter @antgrovesPSE .