By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
The San Antonio Spurs are back in the gym after falling just short in the NBA Finals 2026. The heartbreak of that defeat completely altered the mindset of the locker room.
For French cornerstone Victor Wembanyama, the brief summer was a period of heavy reflection. During preseason media day on Monday, he admitted to enduring several restless nights while thinking about the mountain his team still has to climb. Yet, he refuses to let the disappointment slow his trajectory toward a championship.
“I couldn’t imagine a better motivation,” Wemby stated regarding the Finals loss. He is entirely focused on a singular goal for the upcoming year, which is securing the top spot in the Western Conference playoff bracket.
The immense spotlight on the young center continues to grow, often becoming overbearing. Opposing fan bases have started to vilify him on the road, but he welcomes the hostility. Wembanyama treats the shifting reception as a sign of respect from rivals who know the Spurs are title contenders. “We’re fighting for the top spot of the mountain, and we’re going to have to move people in our way,” he explained.
To prepare for the physical toll of another deep playoff run, his offseason routine included unique conditioning drills inspired by rugby training to raise his baseline endurance. He is also eager to share the court with newly acquired veteran Tobias Harris. “I have no doubt he’ll fit in perfectly,” the former top draft pick in 2023 noted, pointing to the veteran’s guidance.
After formally launching training camp on Tuesday, the Spurs will play five preseason games before starting the 2026–27 NBA Regular Season against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Frost Bank Center on October 20.
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