Spurs Beyond Victor Wembanyama

It’s easy to fixate on Victor Wembanyama, given his towering height and emerging status as a key player in the league. But, really, the Spurs’ success in the Finals against the Knicks is a team effort that extends well beyond his name.

Wembanyama indeed leaves a significant mark on the game with his impressive scoring, defensive prowess, and rebounding skills. However, the Spurs wouldn’t have reached this stage without a solid supporting cast.

“Sure, Wenby attracts a lot of attention—both in strategy and media,” Josh Hart noted after practice on Sunday. “But I can’t overlook someone like De’Aaron. If I did, it could make the series pretty tough. We’ve got to respect all of them: [Stephon] Castle, [Dylan] Harper, [Julian] Champagne. They all deserve our focus.”

The backcourt plays a pivotal role in this dynamic. The Spurs boast one of the most vibrant backcourt units in the league, comprised largely of youthful players.

Castle is just 21, Harper is 20, Devin Vassell is 25, and Champagne is 24. Meanwhile, 28-year-old Fox is the most experienced among them.

“They’re relentless,” said Miles McBride on Sunday. “It seems like this is everything they have… Their youth fuels a mentality of aggression—making every game tough.” So, it’s essential for us to prepare accordingly.

The Knicks have had a robust perimeter defense this playoff season. Mikal Bridges and Hart have consistently disrupted opposing ball-handlers, affecting players like Nickel-Alexander Walker, Tyrese Maxey, and James Harden throughout the series.

Each of Fox, Castle, Harper, and Champagnie has the potential to go off on scoring nights, making scouting challenging.

Interestingly, aside from the games where Wembanyama was sidelined due to concussion protocol or ejection, another player has led the Spurs in scoring eight times this postseason. Castle took the lead five times, while Fox and Harper each did so once.

How the Knicks manage to defend Wembanyama will be crucial.

Their effectiveness against the Spurs’ backcourt could play a significant role in determining the outcome of this series. Wembanyama’s ability to penetrate defenses makes him even more lethal, requiring defenders to shift and provide help.

Moreover, the backcourt’s three-point shooting opens opportunities for Wembanyama, allowing him to operate inside more freely without being crowded.

Castle and Harper are also formidable perimeter defenders and are likely to be tasked with guarding Jalen Brunson.

“They’re young, athletic, and capable of doing a bit of everything,” Hart explained. “They can shoot well and finish strong at the rim.”

In addition to the youth, the Spurs have valuable veterans to guide the team. Harrison Barnes brings championship experience. Keldon Johnson, the Sixth Man of the Year, is in his seventh season, while Luke Kornet contributes his own skills.

“The synergy with Wenby is a solid combination,” said Knicks coach Mike Brown on Sunday. “Fox brings playoff experience and has played in several Game 7s. He’s an All-Star and won Clutch Player of the Year… [Barnes] has been around for a while and performed on big stages.”

“With a blend of veterans and rising talents supporting Wenbanyama, you’ve got a mix that can yield different insights and strengths.”

Yes, Wembanyama is the standout star in the spotlight, but the Spurs have crafted a supporting cast that makes him all the more formidable to face.