Pop’s Next Puzzle: Can the Former Spurs Head Coach Figure Out the Roster Set?
As the San Antonio Spurs open training camp for the 2025–26 NBA season, Gregg Popovich faces one of his most delicate challenges in recent memory. The roster is officially set with the addition of Isaiah Miller, but starting roles remain fluid. Competition is heating up across multiple positions, and at least one starter could see their role in jeopardy. Anchored by Victor Wembanyama, the Spurs are entering a pivotal chapter in defining their identity while integrating young talent and balancing experience.
Point guard and center positions appear secure. De’Aaron Fox will orchestrate the offense, bringing his proven skills to a roster that leans heavily on youth, while Wembanyama’s presence guarantees the team’s most dynamic talent remains central to both ends of the floor. Devin Vassell has solidified his starting small forward spot with consistent scoring, averaging 16.3 points per game and showing the ability to create his own shot. Keldon Johnson poses a minor threat, but his 12.7 points per game and inconsistent performances leave Vassell in control of the position, ensuring Wembanyama has a reliable supporting cast. Stephon Castle is expected to hold his shooting guard spot, while Dylan Harper is still recovering from thumb surgery. Harper’s potential remains tantalizing, but Castle’s established production fits with the approach of elite teammates being integrated around him.
The final positional battle exists at power forward, where Harrison Barnes squares off against Jeremy Sochan. Barnes brings consistency and veteran leadership, averaging 12.3 points per game, while Sochan offers versatility, superior rebounding at 6.5 per game, and prior experience running the offense as a point-forward. With the max extension of Fox securing the team’s lead guard for years to come, Popovich can focus on developing Sochan and other young players, giving him options to rotate production and maintain cohesion. As the Spurs gear up for the 2025–26 season, these decisions will have major implications for the team’s early rhythm and overall framework. The combination of established starters, high-potential rookies, and versatile young players creates an environment ripe for competition, growth, and tactical experimentation. Fans can also see how the integration of rookies like Harper impacts the backcourt and overall roster dynamics, reflecting what has unfolded as expected from the Spurs. The choices Popovich makes in the coming weeks will define the supporting cast around Wembanyama and set the tone for the season, highlighting how the Spurs are balancing continuity, talent, and development to pursue success in the Western Conference.
