Old Robinson wisdom more relevant than ever for Wembanyama and Spurs

David Robinson was a monster on the basketball court from the moment he stepped foot on one in the NBA. After being drafted by the Spurs, he spent two years with the Navy but didn't let that stop him from continuing to work on his game. His dedication is the only way it's possible for a rookie to enter the league and average 24 points, 12 rebounds, two assists, two steals and four blocks.

He won Rookie of the Year, finished as an MVP candidate, was an All-Defensive 2nd team member, All-NBA 3rd team and made the all-star team.

It's safe to say The Admiral knows a thing or two about playing elite basketball and maintaining high-level production amid rising expectations. But his gaudy numbers weren't enough to lead San Antonio to their first championship. He did everything he could and took pride in the task; however, several things have to fall into place the right way for a team to win in the NBA, and he knew it.

There is no substitute for the process in San Antonio

It took almost a decade for the Spurs to win a championship with David Robinson. It was clear that he was one of the best big men the league had ever seen but there will always be, at minimum, a handful of special players in the NBA at any given moment. Nothing is guaranteed (unless you trade for Kevin Durant following a historic season) in the association. The work to build a competitive roster that can sustain success requires a methodical approach and it takes time.

Fans hope it doesn't take that long to win with Victor Wembanyama for a myriad of reasons, one being the age of Gregg Popovich (75) and the uncertainty that will follow his inevitable departure. Another reason is Wemby's grace. Everyone in the organization is subject to it, and while right now he is happy to be in San Antonio, this is a competitive, all-worldly specimen, and he wants to challenge for titles.

It's highly unlikely that he wants to leave Alamo City within the next five years, but if the process starts to take too long with the team progressing slower than he'd prefer, it's always a question. When Kawhi Leonard left, it did irreparable harm to the fan base's psyche. For the first time, a star player forced their way out of an organization with the most pristine reputation imaginable. If he can do that, despite everything the Spurs did for him, anyone can.

It's why this is the perfect time to look back on this Robinson quote. Thankfully, the Spurs have experience building championship contenders and an arsenal of picks to ensure their competitiveness for a long time. But it won't happen overnight, so in the meantime, Wembanyama needs to continue to hone his leadership capabilities as well as his game while the front office puts the pieces in place. Soon enough, it will be full steam ahead, and the Spurs will be back.