The breathless attempts by the vapid haters to degrade their achievements over the past decade does nothing to remove the enjoyment I have received by rooting for and watching a complete class organization play the game like true professionals. Regardless of what happens in this series and the years to come, the Spurs have stood out as a model champion and model organization. Even Kobe talks about the Lakers trying to emulate what the Spurs represent. And it may just pay off for them.
I don't feel the need to defend this team to any degree. Only three franchises in NBA history have won more championships. Pop has the third most playoff victories in NBA history along with the 2nd highest playoff winning percentage of coaches all-time. For 10 years he has put a product on the court that is a contender. And he will continue to do so for the foreseeable future.
I am amused by the debate about back-to-back championships. You know you have arrived as a premier franchise when this is the argument against your team. I think the "dynasty" tag debate is reasonable, as I don't consider us a dynasty. That term, as Pop says, should be reserved for the Celtics of the 60's... Lakers of the 80's, Bulls of the 90's. There have been no other dynasties. Not the Lakers 3-peat, and not the Spurs 4 in 9. They are simply one of the best franchises in NBA history and have provided a hell of a ride for fans like me. And they've done it with class and professionalism that is rare in pro sports today.
The hysterics will continue, usually from people who don't have a team to root for like the Spurs. They've earned their respect from the people that matter. And it ain't over yet. If they go on to lose to the Lakers, there will be next year. Does anyone think Pop and co. aren't capable of reloading in thext couple of seasons to make another run at it all? Check the track record.
The Spurs have been dominant for a decade. Teams have come and gone as contenders in this same period. They are the pinnacle of franchises in the NBA. And that ain't too shabby.
They looked and played like an old team this series. Getting to the WC finals was not too shabby, especially this year. I am rooting hard for the Pistons so the NBA doesn't get what it wants.
I guess your inference is that the NBA rigged the Lakers-Spurs and will do the same for the Celtics-Pistons. Kinda hard to see any evidence to support your position.The Lakers really outplayed the Spurs. Their 3rd quarters in the playoffs were really their downfall. Sorry, maybe they'll come back next year.
Good season, Spurs. Manu's injury, the age of the bench, and the quick turnarounds in the WCF did you in this year. Even so, you gave us plenty to cheer for. It's good to be a Spurs fan.
With a healthy Manu, there is no doubt in my mind that they beat the Lakers and whoever comes out of the east. He was a their best player all season, and he was a shell of himself in this series. They still need to get younger and more athletic and add some pieces in the off season, but they are going to be right in the thick of things again for the next 2-3 years.
With Bynum coming back next year for the Lakers the Spurs need to get younger and have a much better bench to contend with them and the rest of the West.