San Antonio Spurs: Ranking the Top 5 guys likely to take the big leap

A positive and lively workplace culture is essential to promoting the internal growth of employees. Any place that is investing more in people than their work is sure to spawn more positive growth than a place that only cares about the work itself. This is amplified for people between the ages of 18 and 25, who come from a generation that is more responsive to encouraging leadership.

The sights and sounds of training camp show that the San Antonio Spurs are among the most positive workplace environments in basketball right now. This is a stark difference from years past when instability caused by injuries, retirements, and questionable signings cast a shadow of doubt over the NBA’s model organization.

Finally, the Spurs are back to their roots. This year’s group of players and coaches genuinely care about each other, collaborating and guiding each other toward mutual growth. The success of the whole is more important than the individual parts, but each player is respected and cared for. The positive environment established around the Spurs organization is paving the way for players to accelerate their personal and professional development. 

It’s time for someone to take ‘the leap.’

That leap comes in several forms, which are undeniable to those who spend time studying or immersing themselves in the sport. It may equate to higher statistical output, improved leadership qualities, and growth of essential skills that translate to winning basketball. Without a surefire go-to player, the only way for San Antonio to compete is by putting a unified product on the court.

Even Head Coach Gregg Popovich acknowledged the unique nature of this upcoming season. For the first time in his tenure as head coach of the San Antonio Spurs, the team does not have a number one star player to lean on. After several days of working with the group in training camp, Pop found himself invigorated by their livelihood and intensity.

“There’s so many young guys—you know, I call them ‘bright-eyed and bushy-tailed,’ so to speak. They’re just competitive, but at the same time, they respect each other, they get along with each other—but they go after each other all at the same time. So it makes it a great environment and it’s energizing for all of us.”

He went on to mention that two or three players certainly took big steps in their progression this offseason; though Pop isn’t one to reveal the tricks up his sleeve. Time will tell which of San Antonio’s rising talents will emerge as a top option.