Spurs historic rivalries ranked from least to most impactful

3. Houston Rockets

In-state rivalries tend to mean more than other rivalries, which could be proven by the San Antonio and Houston Rockets rivalry. The two played a lot of great basketball against each other, with San Antonio leading the head-to-head series 118-97, while just 3-1 in the playoffs.

It seems like every time they play, it is on a similar playground. For the last few seasons, these two teams have battled it out with young talent. Decades ago, each had a similar core, with Duncan and company matching up with the Yao Ming and Tracy McGrady duo. Further, in the 1990s, both teams were built around their star centers. No matter what time of the year, these two teams seem to always catch each other on a level playing field.

While the Spurs have the edge in wins and championships, the Rockets still make things tough. Houston has always shown up against San Antonio, and they have had some all-time great moments. For example, Hakeem Olajuwon's clinic on David Robinson in the 1995 Western Conference finals and Tracy McGrady's 13 points in 33 seconds in the mid-2000s.

Looking ahead, Houston will seemingly keep trying to build through the NBA draft and around their younger talent, just as San Antonio will. Even if San Antonio becomes a powerhouse once again before Houston does, matchups between these two teams will never be easy.