Where Does the Spurs' Front Office Stand?

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jonah Kubicek | Last updated Dec 12, 2024 4:08 PM ET

For over 20 years, the San Antonio Spurs were the blueprint when it came to team success. "The Spurs Way" brought in overlooked talent and turned them into stars, and finding players who fit their system helped the small-market franchise hoist five championships.

While the Spurs are far removed from their dynastical run, the blueprint for success is still in place. Granted, they had to tear it all down, but the Gregg Popovich, RC Buford, and Brian Wright trio seems to be well on their way to NBA relevancy again, on the back of their giant French center.

According to a recent poll of 40 executives done by The Athletic, the Spurs' front office is still in the top ten.

"While the Spurs have hit some potholes in recent years and transitioned into rebuilding mode (adding Victor Wembanyama with the No. 1 pick in the 2023 draft helps), they still maintain respect around the league," wrote the editorial staff. "Perhaps the biggest testament to that is not just the on-court results but the litany of Spurs disciples in front offices around the NBA, from Sam Presti to Sean Marks to Landry Fields. A stint in the Spurs front office still carries some cachet."

As long as RC Buford is there, the Spurs will remain afloat, wrote one unnamed executive.

Buford has been with the Spurs since 1994 and was on Larry Brown's coaching staff in San Antonio before that, although he and Brown left to coach the Los Angeles Clippers. Buford is the underrated architect of the Spur's success and has been credited with helping usher in the era of international scouting.

At only 64 years old, it's safe to say that RC will be calling the shots for the next several years.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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