when was the last time the san antonio spurs missed the playoffs
in 1997
803661
Spurs in 1997. With their 50th win in the 2016–17 season, the Spurs extended their record for most consecutive 50-win seasons to 18 (the Spurs did not win 50 games in the strike-shortened 1998–99 season, which lasted only 50 games). Since the 1997–98 season, the Spurs have had 21 consecutive seasons with a winning percentage of .622 or greater during the regular season, which is also an NBA record. The team's success during this period coincides with the tenure of current head coach Gregg Popovich, who had been the team's general manager before replacing Bob Hill as coach in 1996.
San Antonio Spurs
16551072
Hill was fired and replaced with General Manager Gregg Popovich. Wilkins appeared in 63 games and led the team with 18.2 points per game. However, it would not be nearly enough as the Spurs finished sixth in the Midwest Division with an awful 20–62 record. Since the Spurs joined the NBA in 1976, this was only the fourth time they missed the playoffs. As of 2018, this was the Spurs' most recent season in which they failed to make the playoffs, due in large part to turning the lottery pick they earned in 1997 into perennial All-Star Tim Duncan. Following
1996–97 San Antonio Spurs season
7248499
2012 NBA Playoffs, and then missed the postseason entirely in . , this was Miami's fifth championship out of a total of seven among the Big Four sports leagues; the MLB's National League Florida (now Miami) Marlins won the World Series in 1997 and 2003 while the NFL's Miami Dolphins won the Super Bowl in 1972 and 1973. The Miami Heat would go on to win a second championship in 2012 against the Thunder in 5 games and a third championship in 2013 against the San Antonio Spurs in 7 games before falling in 2014 against the same Spurs team
2006 NBA Finals
11043272
Tim Duncan with 20.3 PPG. Record: 12–3; Home: 6–0; Road: 6–3 Record: 13–3; Home: 8–1; Road: 5–2 Record: 12–4; Home: 9–0; Road: 3–4 Record: 6–3; Home: 1–1; Road: 5–2 Record: 10-5; Home: 10-1; Road: 0-4 Record: 6-5; Home: 4-0; Road: 2-5 <nowiki>*</nowiki> Statistics include only games with the Spurs (2) San Antonio Spurs vs. (7) Denver Nuggets Last Playoffs meeting: 1995 Western Conference First Round (San Antonio won 3–0) (2) San Antonio Spurs vs. (3) Seattle SuperSonics Last Playoffs meeting: 2002 Western Conference First Round (San Antonio won 3–2) (1) Phoenix Suns vs. (2) San Antonio Spurs Last Playoffs meeting:
2004–05 San Antonio Spurs season
10477954
4 the Lakers never trailed (the Spurs missed several opportunities to take the lead) and led comfortably late, but a furious run by the Spurs and several mistakes by the Lakers (Bryant attempting a running fallaway with plenty of time on the shot clock, Gasol missing 2 free throws) gave San Antonio a chance to tie or win with seconds left. On a disputed no-call, Derek Fisher jumped up and collided with Brent Barry, but no foul was called and Barry missed a last second 3. The NBA later ruled that a foul should have been called on Fisher when
2008 NBA Playoffs
803660
Celtics (17), Los Angeles Lakers (16), Chicago Bulls (6), and Golden State Warriors (6). The Spurs currently rank first among active franchises for the highest winning percentage in NBA history, and have a winning head-to-head regular season record against every active NBA franchise. In their 40 NBA seasons since 1976–77, the Spurs have won 22 division titles. They have made the playoffs in 27 of the last 28 seasons (since 1989–90) and have only missed the playoffs four times since entering the NBA; they have not missed the playoffs in the 20 seasons since Tim Duncan was drafted by the
San Antonio Spurs
803686
due to a back injury. He returned in December, but played only six games before a broken foot sidelined him for the rest of the season. Elliott also missed more than half the season due to injury. Without Robinson and Elliott, the Spurs were a rudderless team. The lone bright spot was Wilkins, leading the team in scoring with an average of 18.2 ppg. The Spurs ended the season with a 20–62 record, the worst in franchise history—and to date, the last time they have missed the playoffs. Hill only lasted 18 games as coach that season, eventually being fired
San Antonio Spurs
12584763
40 points in scoring from their two injured guards, two time MVP Tim Duncan (22 pts) and rookie George Hill (17 pts) led the Spurs' comeback. They finally took the lead (76–75) with 59 seconds left on a hook shot by Duncan. He blocked a layup that would have given the Rockets the lead with less than 2 seconds left. After the Spurs made 1 of 2 free throws, the Rockets got one last chance to win, but Artest missed a 3 as time expired, giving San Antonio a 77–75 victory. The Spurs entered the 2017 NBA playoffs as the
Rockets–Spurs rivalry
15002520
games, the defending champions faced their in-state rival Dallas Mavericks. They were pushed to seven games and the Spurs ended up losing the deciding game of the series. Tim Duncan and Tony Parker were selected to play in the 2006 NBA All-Star Game in Houston. This is Parker's first All-Star game appearance. (1) San Antonio Spurs vs. (8) Sacramento Kings Last Playoffs meeting: This is the first meeting between the Spurs and Kings. (1) San Antonio Spurs vs. (4) Dallas Mavericks Previous Playoffs meeting: 2003 Western Conference Finals (San Antonio won 4–2) 2005–06 San Antonio Spurs season The 2005–06 San
2005–06 San Antonio Spurs season
16551047
Los Angeles Lakers vs. (8) San Antonio Spurs: "Lakers win series 3-0" Last Playoff Meeting: 1986 Western Conference First Round (Los Angeles won 3-0) 1987–88 San Antonio Spurs season The 1987-88 NBA season was the Spurs' 12th season in the NBA and 21st season as a franchise. The season saw the team draft future All-Star and 2-time NBA Champion David Robinson with the first pick in the 1987 NBA Draft, but due to his Naval service, he did not join the team until 1989. Despite inconsistent basketball all year, the Spurs made the playoffs with a low 31–51 record. However,
1987–88 San Antonio Spurs season
19635865
the Spurs from the playoffs. Ginóbili missed more than half of the 2008–09 NBA season due to injury, and the Spurs finished 54–28 and ended up as the number three seed in the Western Conference. The toll from Ginóbili's injury-hit them in the playoffs as, despite a 38-point performance in Game 2 and a 43-point performance in Game 4 from Parker, the Spurs lost to the Mavericks in a five-game series in the first round, and failed to make it past the first round for the first time since 2000. The "Big Three" managed to lead the Spurs to another
Big Three (San Antonio Spurs)
9118449
experience as the up-and-coming Utah Jazz faced off against the seasoned San Antonio Spurs. Coming into the series, the Jazz were not given much of a chance due to their inexperience. However, Carlos Boozer, Deron Williams and the Jazz were able to hold their own against San Antonio for a good part of the series. Unfortunately, it was not enough. The series' first 2 games – both San Antonio home victories – saw the Spurs blow big first-half leads and the Jazz mount last-gasp rallies that were thwarted by San Antonio's clutch shooting. When the Spurs' 19-point first-half lead dwindled
2007 NBA Playoffs
19522544
2016–17 San Antonio Spurs season The 2016–17 San Antonio Spurs season was the franchise's 50th season, its 44th season in the San Antonio area, and its 41st in the National Basketball Association (NBA). This season was the team's first without longtime team cornerstone Tim Duncan since 1996–97; Duncan retired from the NBA on July 11, 2016 as a 5-time champion and the first NBA player ever to win championships in 3 straight decades. With the elimination of the Detroit Red Wings from the 2017 Stanley Cup playoffs on March 28, 2017, the Spurs--with 20 consecutive NBA Playoffs appearances--held the longest
2016–17 San Antonio Spurs season
803596
Grizzlies handled the Thunder in five games during the conference semifinals in 2013 before getting beat by the San Antonio Spurs in the conference finals that same year. The Grizzlies rivalry with the San Antonio Spurs goes way back in 2004 when the Spurs swept the Grizzlies in the first round. Seven years later, they would meet again in the 2011 NBA Playoffs. The Grizzlies upset the Spurs in six games, which made it the fourth time ever an 8th seed beat a first seed in the playoffs. They would then meet again in the conference finals in 2013, where
Memphis Grizzlies
17066359
season 3rd in the 3 team Western Conference, going to the playoffs. In the 1974 ABA Playoffs, the Spurs lost in the first round 4–3 to the Indiana Pacers. Western Division Semifinals 1973–74 San Antonio Spurs season The 1973–74 San Antonio Spurs season was the first season for the newly named San Antonio Spurs, who had spent the past six seasons as the Dallas Chaparrals in the American Basketball Association. The Spurs made their debut on October 10, 1973, vs the San Diego Conquistadors in San Antonio, losing 121–106. Afterwards, the Spurs would win just 6 of their next 13
1973–74 San Antonio Spurs season
11052647
35-game improvement. They advanced to the second round of the Western Conference playoffs where they lost in seven games to the eventual western conference champions, the Portland Trail Blazers. Following the 1989–90 season, David Robinson was unanimously named the NBA Rookie of the Year, and subsequently SEGA produced a game featuring him entitled "David Robinson's Supreme Court". (2) San Antonio Spurs vs. (7) Denver Nuggets: "Spurs win series 3-0" Last Playoff Meeting: 1985 Western Conference First Round (Denver won 3-2) (2) San Antonio Spurs vs. (3) Portland Trail Blazers: "Blazers win series 4-3" Last Playoff Meeting: Not available (first playoff
1989–90 San Antonio Spurs season
803724
professional leagues. The 2014–15 season was an up-and-down season, but finishing strong with a 55–27 regular season record and 6th seed in the West, they qualified for the playoffs. They faced the Los Angeles Clippers in the first round of the playoffs. The Spurs went up 3–2 heading into Game 6 at San Antonio. However, the Clippers would win that game and go on to win Game 7 at home. The San Antonio Spurs became the first defending champions since the 2011–12 Dallas Mavericks to be eliminated in the first round of the NBA playoffs. With the acquisitions of four-time
San Antonio Spurs
17652129
average point differential (14.0) in Finals history. San Antonio's Kawhi Leonard was named the Finals Most Valuable Player (MVP). 2013–14 San Antonio Spurs season The 2013–14 San Antonio Spurs season was the 47th season of the franchise, their 41st in San Antonio and the 38th in the National Basketball Association (NBA). The Spurs entered the season as runner-ups of the 2013 NBA Finals, where they lost to the Miami Heat in seven games, marking the first time the Spurs lost in the NBA Finals. They also entered the season with an NBA-record ten international players. In the playoffs, the Spurs
2013–14 San Antonio Spurs season
803692
got a lift when Sean Elliott, who received a kidney transplant from his brother prior to the season, returned and played in the last 19 games. As the season wound down, Duncan suffered a knee injury and the Spurs finished in second place with a 53–29 record. Without Duncan, the Spurs were knocked out of the playoffs by the Phoenix Suns in four games. The long-term viability of the Spurs franchise in San Antonio was, however, achieved during the 1999–2000 season, as Bexar County voters approved increases in car rental and hotel taxes which would allow for the construction of
San Antonio Spurs
17064593
point), finishing with over 50 victories for the first time in Spurs history. In the 1975 ABA Playoffs, the Spurs once again lost in the first round 4–2 to the Indiana Pacers. Western Division Semifinals 1974–75 San Antonio Spurs season The 1974–75 San Antonio Spurs season was the second season for the San Antonio Spurs. The Spurs made their debut on October 18, 1974, vs the Indiana Pacers in Indiana, winning 129–121 in double overtime. Afterwards, the Spurs would win the next two games, getting to a quick start. In December they would be 21–18 after finishing 7–10 in the
1974–75 San Antonio Spurs season
19522545
active playoff streak in any of the major North American professional sports leagues. The Spurs finished the regular season with a 61–21 record, securing the second seed in the Western Conference playoffs. In the first round of the playoffs, the Spurs defeated the Memphis Grizzlies in six games. In the Western Conference Semifinals, they defeated the Houston Rockets in six games. In the Western Conference Finals, the Spurs were swept by the eventual NBA champion Golden State Warriors in four games. This was San Antonio’s first time being swept in the playoffs since the 2010 Western Conference Semifinals, when they
2016–17 San Antonio Spurs season
17652127
2013–14 San Antonio Spurs season The 2013–14 San Antonio Spurs season was the 47th season of the franchise, their 41st in San Antonio and the 38th in the National Basketball Association (NBA). The Spurs entered the season as runner-ups of the 2013 NBA Finals, where they lost to the Miami Heat in seven games, marking the first time the Spurs lost in the NBA Finals. They also entered the season with an NBA-record ten international players. In the playoffs, the Spurs defeated Dallas Mavericks in seven games in the First Round, the Portland Trail Blazers in five games in the
2013–14 San Antonio Spurs season
14791875
47–35 record. David Robinson was selected for the 1992 NBA All-Star Game, made the All-NBA First Team and was named Defensive Player of The Year. In the first round of the playoffs, the Spurs were swept by the Phoenix Suns in three straight games. Following the season, Rod Strickland signed as a free agent with the Portland Trail Blazers, Bass was fired as coach and Johnson retired. (4) Phoenix Suns vs. (5) San Antonio Spurs: "Suns win series 3-0" Last Playoff Meeting: Not available (first playoff series) 1991–92 San Antonio Spurs season The 1991–92 NBA season was the Spurs' 16th
1991–92 San Antonio Spurs season
17996939
straight playoff appearance) entered the playoffs as the first seeds of their respective conferences. The Warriors and Hawks advanced to the Conference Finals for the first time since 1976 and 1970, respectively. The Cleveland Cavaliers made their first postseason appearance since 2010, the final season of LeBron James' first stint with the Cavaliers. They also made their first Conference Finals appearance since 2009, where they lost 4–2 to the Orlando Magic, and their first Finals appearance since 2007, when they were swept by the San Antonio Spurs. On the other hand, James' former team, the Miami Heat, missed the playoffs
2015 NBA Playoffs
803702
bump in the road when Tim Duncan suffered an ankle injury. The Spurs struggled the rest of the season, finishing just 59–23. However, by the time the playoffs rolled around, Duncan was ready to return. In the postseason, The Spurs went through the West relatively easily, culminating with a 5-game victory in the Conference Finals over the Phoenix Suns. In the NBA Finals, the Spurs would face the defending champion Detroit Pistons. The first two games in San Antonio were both Spurs victories as Ginóbili led the way with 26 and 27 points, in blow out wins by the Spurs.
San Antonio Spurs
16551069
to win their second straight Division title with a 59–23 record. Robinson was named to the All-NBA First Team and All-Defensive Second Team. In the playoffs, the Spurs would easily beat the Phoenix Suns in four games in the first round. However, in the semifinals, the Spurs would again stumble in the postseason losing to the 3rd-seeded Utah Jazz in six games, including a 108–81 road loss in Game 6. Following the season, Doc Rivers retired. (2) San Antonio Spurs vs. (7) Phoenix Suns Last Playoff Meeting: 1993 Western Conference Semifinals (Phoenix won 4-2) (2) San Antonio Spurs vs. (3)
1995–96 San Antonio Spurs season
14755941
averaged 25.6 points, 13.0 rebounds, and 3.9 blocks per game while being selected to the All-NBA First Team, All-Defensive Second Team, and for the 1991 NBA All-Star Game. However, in the first round of the playoffs, the Spurs would be stunned by the 7th-seeded Golden State Warriors in four games after winning Game 1. (2) San Antonio Spurs vs. (7) Golden State Warriors: "Warriors win series 3-1" Last Playoff Meeting: Not available (first playoff series) 1990–91 San Antonio Spurs season The 1990–91 NBA season was the Spurs' 15th season in the National Basketball Association, and 24th season as a franchise.
1990–91 San Antonio Spurs season
16611661
2012–13 San Antonio Spurs season The 2012–13 San Antonio Spurs season was the 46th season of the franchise, 40th in San Antonio and 37th in the National Basketball Association (NBA). The Spurs finished the regular season with a 58–24 record as the 2nd seed in the Western Conference. In the playoffs, the Spurs swept the Los Angeles Lakers in the First Round in four games, defeated the Golden State Warriors in the Semifinals in six games, and swept the Memphis Grizzlies in the Conference Finals in four games, advancing to the NBA Finals for the fifth time in franchise history
2012–13 San Antonio Spurs season
9118453
their first franchise championship, as well as the first championship for a pro team based out of Cleveland since the Cleveland Browns won the 1964 National Football League Championship. However, the Cavs were considered heavy underdogs against the 3-time champion Spurs. The Spurs' veteran leadership and championship experience overwhelmed the Cavs, who were swept by the Spurs after two blowouts in San Antonio and two close games in Cleveland. 2007 NBA Playoffs The 2007 NBA Playoffs was the postseason tournament of the National Basketball Association's 2006–07 season. The tournament concluded with the Western Conference champion San Antonio Spurs defeating the
2007 NBA Playoffs
14651668
of the Week" for games played from December 13 through December 19 and again for games played March 7 through March 13 "Main article: 2011 NBA All-Star Game" "Main article: 2010–11 NBA season" On November 19, when San Antonio beat the Utah Jazz to go 10–1, it marked the best start to a season in franchise history. 2010–11 San Antonio Spurs season The 2010–11 San Antonio Spurs season was the 44th season of the franchise, 38th in San Antonio and 35th in the National Basketball Association (NBA). In the playoffs, the Spurs lost to the eighth-seeded Memphis Grizzlies in six
2010–11 San Antonio Spurs season
14651662
2010–11 San Antonio Spurs season The 2010–11 San Antonio Spurs season was the 44th season of the franchise, 38th in San Antonio and 35th in the National Basketball Association (NBA). In the playoffs, the Spurs lost to the eighth-seeded Memphis Grizzlies in six games in the First Round, becoming the fourth number one seed in league history to lose a playoffs series against a number eight seed, following the Seattle SuperSonics in 1994, the Miami Heat in 1999, and the Dallas Mavericks in 2007. The Spurs entered the Draft with their two original picks. They used the 20th overall pick
2010–11 San Antonio Spurs season
15729498
were both voted to play in the 2005 NBA All-Star Game in Denver. In the first round of the playoffs, the Sonics defeated the Sacramento Kings in five games, but would lose in the second round to the eventual NBA champion San Antonio Spurs in six games. This would be their final playoff appearance as the Sonics. Following the season, head coach Nate McMillan was fired, and Antonio Daniels signed as a free agent with the Washington Wizards. (3) Seattle SuperSonics vs. (6) Sacramento Kings Last Playoffs meeting: 1996 Western Conference First Round (Seattle won 3–1) (2) San Antonio Spurs
2004–05 Seattle SuperSonics season
15173458
All-Star Game in his rookie season and was named NBA Rookie of the Year for that year. Like Robinson, Duncan led the Spurs to another turnaround as he led the Spurs to a 56-26 record and qualification for the 1998 NBA Playoffs, which is the first of what would become a 21-year playoff streak for the San Antonio Spurs, which would last Tim Duncan's entire career with the Spurs. In Duncan's playoff debut, he has a bad first half and with the Spurs trailing the Phoenix Suns 50-45 at halftime, Suns coach Danny Ainge decided to put less defensive pressure
Twin Towers (San Antonio Spurs)
803732
winner advanced to the NBA Finals. The rivalry fell off from 2005 to 2007, with the Lakers missing the playoffs in 2005 and losing in the first round to the Phoenix Suns in 2006 and 2007, but intensified again in 2008 when they met in the Western Conference Finals. Both teams met once again for the 12th time in 2013 in the first round, with the Spurs winning in four games. The rivalry between the San Antonio Spurs and the Dallas Mavericks features two teams with Dallas roots. The Spurs began their life in the ABA as the Dallas Chaparrals
San Antonio Spurs
16463864
57 wins. The Brooklyn Nets and Golden State Warriors made their first playoff appearances since 2007. This also marked the first time that Barclays Center hosted a playoff game. The Houston Rockets made their first playoff appearance since 2009, while the Milwaukee Bucks appeared for the first time since 2010. The Bucks were the first team since 2011 to make the playoffs despite finishing below .500 in the regular season. The San Antonio Spurs continued the longest active playoff streak at 16 straight appearances. The Dallas Mavericks missed the playoffs for the first time since 2000, ending the second-longest active
2013 NBA Playoffs
11043364
2006–07 San Antonio Spurs season The 2006-07 NBA season was the Spurs' 40th season as a franchise, the 34th in San Antonio, and the 31st season in the NBA In the playoffs, the Spurs defeated the Denver Nuggets in five games in the First Round, then defeated the Phoenix Suns in six games in the Semifinals, and finally, defeating the Utah Jazz in five games in the Conference Finals to advance to the NBA Finals for the fourth time in franchise history. There, the Spurs faced off against the Cleveland Cavaliers, led by a young LeBron James, who were making
2006–07 San Antonio Spurs season
15729488
of the season, including a ten-game winning streak in April. The Nuggets finished second in the Northwest Division with a 49–33 record. Second-year star Carmelo Anthony led them in scoring with 20.8 points per game. Entering the playoffs as the #7 seed in the Western Conference, the Nuggets won Game 1 over the 2nd-seeded San Antonio Spurs, but would lose the series in five games. The Spurs then defeated the Detroit Pistons in seven games in the NBA Finals, winning their third championship in franchise history. (2) San Antonio Spurs vs. (7) Denver Nuggets Last Playoffs meeting: 1995 Western Conference
2004–05 Denver Nuggets season
11918765
1984–85 Denver Nuggets season The 1984-85 Denver Nuggets season was their 18th season, and their ninth in the NBA. In the playoffs, the Nuggets defeated the San Antonio Spurs in five games in the First Round, then defeated the Utah Jazz in five games in the Semifinals, before losing to the eventual NBA champion Los Angeles Lakers in five games in the Conference Finals. Notes (2) Denver Nuggets vs. (7) San Antonio Spurs: "Nuggets win series 3-2" Last Playoff Meeting: 1983 Western Conference Semifinals (San Antonio won 4-1) (2) Denver Nuggets vs. (6) Utah Jazz: "Nuggets win series 4-1" Last
1984–85 Denver Nuggets season
803720
Duncan, and when Ginóbili missed a subsequent 3-pointer, Dwyane Wade hit one out of two from the free throw line to put the game on ice, as the Heat would win their second straight championship. The Spurs returned with their core roster largely intact, adding free agents Marco Belinelli and Jeff Ayres (formerly Jeff Pendergraph) while losing Gary Neal to the Milwaukee Bucks. The Spurs clinched the best record in the NBA with 62 wins, which included a franchise record 19 straight wins in February and March. In the first round of the playoffs, the eighth-seeded Dallas Mavericks surprised the
San Antonio Spurs
3569457
next six seasons. The Los Angeles Lakers and San Antonio Spurs combined to win nine NBA Championships during this period. The Spurs were responsible for winning four championships during this time, in 1999, 2003, 2005, and 2007. In the 1999 NBA Playoffs, the Spurs finished with a 15–2 mark, including sweeps of the Blazers and Lakers. With a defensive squad led by David Robinson and Tim Duncan, San Antonio's 84.7 points allowed per game was the fewest average points allowed in the post-season in the last 30 years. In the Finals that year, the Spurs played against the New York
NBA Finals
8229526
year with averages of 9.9 ppg and 3.2 apg. He improved his jump-shot and his ability to split defenses and get to the rim. Unfortunately, he sustained a leg injury midway through the year and missed most of the rest of the regular season. Harris returned for the playoffs and played a huge role in toppling the Mavericks' longtime rivals, the San Antonio Spurs. The Spurs had dominated the Mavs in recent playoff history, ending their playoff runs in 6 games in the 2003 Playoffs and 5 games in the 2001 Playoffs. Devin Harris and the Mavericks reached the 2006
Devin Harris
7369300
play for both teams in the same game. On November 14, 1973, Netolicky was playing for the San Antonio Spurs when they lost at home to the Indiana Pacers on a last-second shot. The Spurs protested the loss, and the ABA Commissioner ruled for San Antonio. The Pacers' last-second basket was disallowed, and the remaining 30 seconds of the game (which was the portion that San Antonio had protested) was ordered replayed immediately before the next Pacers-at-Spurs game, on December 2, 1973. By that time, however, Netolicky had been traded to Indiana. He played the final 30 seconds of regulation
Bob Netolicky
11043908
as head coach of the Minnesota Timberwolves at midseason, would be the Pistons head coach for next season. (2) Detroit Pistons vs. (7) Philadelphia 76ers Last Playoffs meeting: 2003 Eastern Conference Semifinals (Detroit won 4–2) (2) Detroit Pistons vs. (6) Indiana Pacers Last Playoffs meeting: 2004 Eastern Conference Finals (Detroit won 4–2) (1) Miami Heat vs. (2) Detroit Pistons Last Playoffs meeting: 2000 Eastern Conference First Round (Miami won 3–0) (W2) San Antonio Spurs vs. (E2) Detroit Pistons Last Playoffs Meeting: This is the first meeting between the Spurs and Pistons. 2004–05 Detroit Pistons season The 2004–05 NBA season was
2004–05 Detroit Pistons season
803731
San Antonio Spurs and the Los Angeles Lakers started in the late 1970s and peaked in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Since 1999, the teams have met in the NBA Playoffs 7 times, with the clubs combining to appear in seven straight NBA Finals from 1999 to 2005. Additionally, the teams won each NBA Title from 1999 to 2003 (the Spurs won in 1999 and 2003, while the Lakers won in 2000, 2001, and 2002). From 1999 to 2004, the rivalry was considered as the NBA's best, as each time the clubs faced each other in the playoffs, the
San Antonio Spurs
803739
a Game 7 blowout, winning 119–96. Also known as the "I-10 Rivalry" since San Antonio and Houston both lie on the path of the Interstate 10 freeway. The rivalry between the San Antonio Spurs and the Houston Rockets began in 1976 when the Spurs were absorbed into the NBA from the American Basketball Association, along with the Denver Nuggets, the New York Nets, and the Indiana Pacers. The Rockets and Spurs competed for the division title, with the Rockets winning it first in 1977 and the Spurs in 1978 and 1979. In 1980, they met in the playoffs for the
San Antonio Spurs
19522547
March 08, with a 114–104 win over the Sacramento Kings the Spurs extended their league record for consecutive 50+ win seasons to 18 straight. On April 04, with a 95–89(OT) win over the Memphis Grizzlies the Spurs secured their first back to back 60+ win seasons in team history. Playoffs The San Antonio Spurs were eliminated 4-0 by the Golden State Warriors in the Western Conference Finals. 2016–17 San Antonio Spurs season The 2016–17 San Antonio Spurs season was the franchise's 50th season, its 44th season in the San Antonio area, and its 41st in the National Basketball Association (NBA).
2016–17 San Antonio Spurs season
16545362
the first round of the playoffs to the San Antonio Spurs led by Tim Duncan, who was MVP following the season. This season was also Payton's final full season in Seattle, as he was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks midway next season. Also following the season, Vin Baker was traded to the Boston Celtics. The Sonics also changed their logo and uniforms, going back to their traditional colors of green and yellow. The logo and uniforms both lasted until 2008. (2) San Antonio Spurs vs. (7) Seattle SuperSonics Last Playoff Meeting: 1982 Western Conference Semifinals (San Antonio won 4-1) Provided
2001–02 Seattle SuperSonics season
16551080
(San Antonio won 3-1) (1) San Antonio Spurs vs. (5) Dallas Mavericks Last Playoff Meeting: This is the first meeting between the Spurs and Mavericks. (1) San Antonio Spurs vs. (2) Los Angeles Lakers Last Playoff Meeting: 1999 Western Conference Semifinals (San Antonio won 4-0) 2000–01 San Antonio Spurs season The 2000–01 NBA season was the Spurs' 25th season in the National Basketball Association, their 28th season in San Antonio, and their 34th season as a franchise. During the offseason, the Spurs signed free agents Derek Anderson and Danny Ferry. The Spurs continued to be among the NBA's elite teams,
2000–01 San Antonio Spurs season
18090447
16th consecutive season. The Spurs started the season slow and exceeded their previous season of 20 losses, but managed an eleven-game winning streak within the last 12 games and finished 55-27, finishing third in the Southwest on a tie breaker to the Memphis Grizzlies. In the playoffs, the Spurs faced the Los Angeles Clippers in the First Round. The Spurs' season would end in a Game 7 loss, after Chris Paul made a layup with 1 second on the clock and Matt Barnes blocking a desperate final inbound pass as time expired, losing 109–111. It was the first time since
2014–15 San Antonio Spurs season
803563
Conference ever since the team returned there in 1980. Two are intrastate rivalries, with the San Antonio Spurs, who moved along with the Rockets after four years with them in the Eastern Conference, and the Dallas Mavericks, introduced that very season. Houston faced both Texas teams in playoffs since 1980, beating the Spurs three times and losing once. The Rockets lost twice to the Mavericks, while beating them once. Other famed rivalries were with the Los Angeles Lakers, who in the 1980s Showtime era only missed the NBA Finals when beaten by the Rockets, and the Utah Jazz, who the
Houston Rockets
11043323
as a free agent with the Chicago Bulls. (1) San Antonio Spurs vs. (8) Minnesota Timberwolves: "Spurs win series 3-1" Last Playoff Meeting: This is the first meeting between the Spurs and Timberwolves. (1) San Antonio Spurs vs. (4) Los Angeles Lakers: "Spurs win series 4-0" Last Playoff Meeting: 1995 Western Conference Semifinals (San Antonio won 4-2) (1) San Antonio Spurs vs. (2) Portland Trail Blazers: "Spurs win series 4-0" Last Playoff Meeting: 1993 Western Conference First Round (San Antonio won 3-1) The 1999 NBA Finals saw some firsts for both the Spurs and the opposing New York Knicks. The
1998–99 San Antonio Spurs season
3100928
career. In the 2011 NBA Finals, he coached the Mavericks to a 4–2 series victory over the Miami Heat for the franchise's first championship. In the 2012 playoffs, the Mavericks lost 0–4 to Thunder in the first round. On May 15, 2012, Carlisle agreed to a new four-year deal with the Mavericks. In 2013, the Mavericks finished 41–41 and missed the playoffs for the first time since 2000. In 2014, Carlisle led the Mavericks back to the playoffs as the eighth seed with a 49–33 record where they would meet their in-state rivals San Antonio Spurs in the first round.
Rick Carlisle
6589208
of the Trail Blazers, tore his Achilles tendon on March 5 against the Dallas Mavericks and missed the rest of the season and playoffs, The Blazers subsequently went 21-20 through their final 41 games. In the playoffs, the short-handed Blazers were outplayed and outmatched by the Memphis Grizzlies in five games. Aldridge averaged a career-best 23.4 points per game, made a league-best 659 field goals, and was voted onto the All-NBA Second Team. On July 9, 2015, Aldridge signed a four-year, $80 million contract with the San Antonio Spurs. Upon being acquired by the Spurs, Aldridge was granted the number
LaMarcus Aldridge
7805421
Conference Finals (2) Indiana Pacers vs. (8) New York Knicks: "Knicks win series 4-2" This was the fifth playoff meeting between these two teams, with each team winning two series apiece. (1) San Antonio Spurs vs. (8) New York Knicks: "Spurs win series 4-1" Neither team met in the regular season. This was the first playoff meeting between the Knicks and the Spurs. 1999 NBA Playoffs The 1999 NBA Playoffs was the postseason tournament of the National Basketball Association’s 1998-99 season. The tournament concluded with the Western Conference champion San Antonio Spurs defeating the Eastern Conference champion New York Knicks
1999 NBA Playoffs
11874174
1981–82 San Antonio Spurs season The 1981-82 NBA season was the Spurs' sixth season in the NBA and 15th season as a franchise. George Gervin was the winner of a fourth scoring title in five years with 32.3 points per game. The Spurs won their second straight division title with a record of 48-34. In the playoffs the Spurs beat the Seattle SuperSonics in 5 games. In the Western Finals, the Spurs would be swept in 4 straight by the Los Angeles Lakers. The Spurs had a first round bye. (2) San Antonio Spurs vs. (3) Seattle SuperSonics: "Spurs win
1981–82 San Antonio Spurs season
11874052
(2) San Antonio Spurs vs. (3) Washington Bullets: "Bullets win series 4–2" 1977–78 San Antonio Spurs season The 1977–78 NBA season was the second in the NBA, the 5th in San Antonio, and the 11th as a franchise. While George Gervin was lighting up the scoreboard with his first point title, the Spurs won the Central Division with a 52–30 record. In the playoffs the Spurs would be stunned in 6 games by the eventual champion Washington Bullets In the series, Gervin averaged 33.2 points per game. George Gervin and David Thompson of the Denver Nuggets would battle all season
1977–78 San Antonio Spurs season
11043271
Spurs would be near the top in the Western Conference all season battling the Phoenix Suns for the best record in the NBA. Just as it appeared the Spurs would cruise toward the playoffs, their season suddenly hit a bump in the road when Tim Duncan went down in a March 20 loss to the Detroit Pistons with a sprained ankle. The rest of the way, the Spurs would limp home winning 9 of their last 17 as they held on to the Southwest Division by just 1 game with a 59-23 record.The Spurs leading scorer during the season was
2004–05 San Antonio Spurs season
803685
but lost to the eventual NBA Champion Houston Rockets. Throughout the season, and particularly in the playoffs, there appeared to be friction developing between Rodman and several Spurs' teammates, most notably Robinson. Rodman was traded to the Chicago Bulls after the season, and helped the Bulls win three titles from 1996 to 1998. The Spurs finished the 1995–96 season under Hill at 59–23 and lost in the Western Conference semi-finals. Few observers could have predicted how far the Spurs would fall during the 1996–97 season, especially with the signing of Dominique Wilkins. Robinson missed the first month of the season
San Antonio Spurs
803664
games out of nine, achieved in 2003). When the Spurs have won the NBA title, the team's victory parades have been boat trips on the San Antonio River Walk. The San Antonio Spurs started out as the Dallas Chaparrals of the original version of the American Basketball Association (ABA). Coached by player/coach Cliff Hagan the Dallas Chaparrals were one of 11 teams to take the floor in the inaugural season of the upstart ABA. The Chaps' second season was a bit of a disappointment, as the team finished in 4th place with a mediocre 41–37 record. In the playoffs the
San Antonio Spurs
11874175
series 4-1" (1) Los Angeles Lakers vs. (2) San Antonio Spurs: "Lakers win series 4-0" 1981–82 San Antonio Spurs season The 1981-82 NBA season was the Spurs' sixth season in the NBA and 15th season as a franchise. George Gervin was the winner of a fourth scoring title in five years with 32.3 points per game. The Spurs won their second straight division title with a record of 48-34. In the playoffs the Spurs beat the Seattle SuperSonics in 5 games. In the Western Finals, the Spurs would be swept in 4 straight by the Los Angeles Lakers. The Spurs
1981–82 San Antonio Spurs season
16551100
the Lakers. Following the season, Antonio Daniels was traded to the Portland Trail Blazers and Terry Porter retired. (2) San Antonio Spurs vs. (7) Seattle SuperSonics Last Playoff Meeting: 1982 Western Conference Semifinals (San Antonio won 4-1) (2) San Antonio Spurs vs. (3) Los Angeles Lakers Last Playoff Meeting: 2001 Western Conference Finals (Los Angeles won 4-0) 2001–02 San Antonio Spurs season The 2001–02 NBA season was the Spurs' 26th season in the National Basketball Association, the 29th in San Antonio, and 35th season as a franchise. During the offseason, the Spurs acquired Steve Smith from the Portland Trail Blazers,
2001–02 San Antonio Spurs season
16611662
since 2007, but came up short of a fifth title, losing to the Miami Heat in a tough seven-game series, who would hand them their very first defeat in the NBA Finals. 2012–13 San Antonio Spurs season The 2012–13 San Antonio Spurs season was the 46th season of the franchise, 40th in San Antonio and 37th in the National Basketball Association (NBA). The Spurs finished the regular season with a 58–24 record as the 2nd seed in the Western Conference. In the playoffs, the Spurs swept the Los Angeles Lakers in the First Round in four games, defeated the Golden
2012–13 San Antonio Spurs season
10474628
involved in the following transactions during the 2007–08 season. 2007–08 San Antonio Spurs season The 2007–08 San Antonio Spurs season was the 41st season of the franchise, 35th in San Antonio, and 32nd in the National Basketball Association (NBA). The Spurs were the defending NBA champions after winning their fourth title, having swept the Cleveland Cavaliers in four games. They would once again win at least 50 games for the 9th straight season, and make the playoffs for the 11th straight season. After beating the Phoenix Suns in 5 games and the New Orleans Hornets in 7, the Spurs were
2007–08 San Antonio Spurs season
10474626
2007–08 San Antonio Spurs season The 2007–08 San Antonio Spurs season was the 41st season of the franchise, 35th in San Antonio, and 32nd in the National Basketball Association (NBA). The Spurs were the defending NBA champions after winning their fourth title, having swept the Cleveland Cavaliers in four games. They would once again win at least 50 games for the 9th straight season, and make the playoffs for the 11th straight season. After beating the Phoenix Suns in 5 games and the New Orleans Hornets in 7, the Spurs were eliminated by the Los Angeles Lakers in the Western
2007–08 San Antonio Spurs season
16551104
Antonio Spurs vs. (6) Memphis Grizzlies: "Spurs win series 4–0" Last Playoff Meeting: This is the first meeting between the Spurs and Grizzlies. (2) Los Angeles Lakers vs. (3) San Antonio Spurs: "Lakers win series 4–2" Last Playoff Meeting: 2003 Western Conference Semifinals (San Antonio won 4-2) 2003–04 San Antonio Spurs season The 2003-04 NBA season was the Spurs' 28th season in the National Basketball Association, the 31st in San Antonio, and 37th season as a franchise. The Spurs entered the season as defending NBA champions, having defeated the New Jersey Nets in the 2003 NBA Finals in six games
2003–04 San Antonio Spurs season
803667
the team to Dallas if no purchase occurred by 1975. After the deal was signed, the team was renamed the San Antonio Gunslingers. However, before they even played a game the name was changed to Spurs. The team's primary colors were changed from the red, white, and blue of the Chaparrals to the now familiar black, silver and white motif of the Spurs. In the playoffs, the Spurs would battle the Indiana Pacers to the bitter end before falling in seven games. San Antonio embraced the Spurs with open arms; the Spurs drew 6,303 fans per game, surpassing the Chaparrals'
San Antonio Spurs
16551079
playoffs, the Spurs would easily defeat the Minnesota Timberwolves in four games. In the semifinals, they beat the 5th-seeded Dallas Mavericks in five games to advance to the Western Conference Finals, where they were swept by the second-seeded defending champion Los Angeles Lakers. Following the season, Anderson was traded along with Steve Kerr to the Portland Trail Blazers for Steve Smith, Avery Johnson signed as a free agent with the Denver Nuggets, Samaki Walker signed with the Los Angeles Lakers, and Sean Elliott retired. (1) San Antonio Spurs vs. (8) Minnesota Timberwolves Last Playoff Meeting: 1999 Western Conference First Round
2000–01 San Antonio Spurs season
803736
cap room. The Mavericks were swept in the 2012–13 season by the Spurs for the first time since the 1998 season, Tim Duncan's rookie season. In their last match up of the season, San Antonio escaped with a 95–94 victory over Dallas when a Vince Carter 3-point attempt bounced off the rim at the buzzer. With that win, the Spurs clinched a playoff spot for a 16th straight season, currently the longest streak in the NBA. San Antonio also reached 50 wins for a 14th consecutive season, the longest streak in NBA history. In the 2013–14 season, the Spurs once
San Antonio Spurs
10243009
in the playoffs. The only Spurs series losses to the Suns occurred in the 2000 NBA Playoffs, when Duncan was out with a knee injury and in the 2010 NBA Playoffs, when the Suns put up the first 4-0 sweep in this rivalry. The Spurs took the first round of the 2003 series from the Suns in six games on their way to their second NBA title. The two teams met in the 2005 Western Conference Finals. The revived Suns (who had posted the third-greatest turnaround in NBA history that season) went up against the second-seeded Spurs. San Antonio took
Spurs–Suns rivalry
11043365
their first ever NBA Finals appearance. The Spurs would go on to sweep the Cavaliers in four games, winning the their fourth NBA championship, with Tony Parker named Finals MVP, making him the first European-born player to win the award. <nowiki>*</nowiki> Statistics include only games with the Spurs (3) San Antonio Spurs vs. (6) Denver Nuggets Last Playoff Meeting: 2005 Western Conference First Round (San Antonio won 4–1) (2) Phoenix Suns vs. (3) San Antonio Spurs Last Playoff Meeting: 2005 Western Conference Finals (San Antonio won 4–1) (3) San Antonio Spurs vs. (4) Utah Jazz Last Playoff Meeting: 1998 Western
2006–07 San Antonio Spurs season
16551046
1987–88 San Antonio Spurs season The 1987-88 NBA season was the Spurs' 12th season in the NBA and 21st season as a franchise. The season saw the team draft future All-Star and 2-time NBA Champion David Robinson with the first pick in the 1987 NBA Draft, but due to his Naval service, he did not join the team until 1989. Despite inconsistent basketball all year, the Spurs made the playoffs with a low 31–51 record. However, a sweep to the eventual champion Lakers ended the season for the Spurs. Alvin Robertson was selected for the 1988 NBA All-Star Game. (1)
1987–88 San Antonio Spurs season
6477283
not earning the home-court advantage. Still, the Lakers took down the fourth-seeded Minnesota Timberwolves in six games. However, they were eliminated by the San Antonio Spurs, who finally earned revenge after their previous two defeats to the Lakers in the 2001 and 2002 NBA playoffs. In Game 5, Robert Horry, a perennial clutch threat in the playoffs, missed a game-winning three that would've given the Lakers a 3-2 lead. The miss eventually led to Horry's free-agent defection to the Spurs the following season. The Nets made it back to the Finals in 2003. They won 49 games and the Atlantic
2002 NBA Finals
803733
and did not move to San Antonio until 1973. On October 11, 1980, the Mavs made their NBA debut by defeating the Spurs 103–92. In the playoffs the Spurs defeated the Mavericks in 2001, 2003, 2010, and 2014; while the Mavericks defeated the Spurs in 2006 and 2009. The Spurs have won five championships and six conference titles, while the Mavericks have won one championship and two conference titles. The Spurs have won 18 division titles, while the Mavericks have won 3. The Mavericks have three 60-win seasons, while the Spurs have five. The two teams met in the playoffs
San Antonio Spurs
15002519
2005–06 San Antonio Spurs season The 2005–06 San Antonio Spurs season was the team's 39th overall season, the 33rd in San Antonio, and the 30th in the NBA. The Spurs entered the season as the defending NBA champions, having defeated the Detroit Pistons in the 2005 NBA Finals in seven games, winning their third NBA championship. They began the season hoping to improve upon their 59–23 output from the previous season. They bested it by four games, finishing 63–19, and qualified for the playoffs for the ninth straight season. After defeating the Sacramento Kings by six games in the first
2005–06 San Antonio Spurs season
15690374
first two weeks of the regular season were scrapped, and a two-game pre-season was set for each team once the lockout concluded. 2011–12 San Antonio Spurs season The 2011–12 San Antonio Spurs season is the 45th season of the franchise, 39th in San Antonio and 36th in the National Basketball Association (NBA). The Spurs attained the first seed in the Western Conference, earning a berth in the NBA Playoffs, where they swept both the Utah Jazz and the Los Angeles Clippers in four games in the First Round and Semifinals respectively, only to be eliminated in six games by the
2011–12 San Antonio Spurs season
9370669
4–3" (2) San Antonio Spurs vs. (3) Philadelphia 76ers: "Spurs win series 4–3" Conference Finals (1) Washington Bullets vs. (2) San Antonio Spurs: "Bullets win series 4-3" (1) Washington Bullets vs. (1) Seattle SuperSonics: "Sonics win series 4-1" 1979 NBA Playoffs The 1979 NBA Playoffs was the postseason tournament of the National Basketball Association’s 1978–79 season. The tournament concluded with the Western Conference champion Seattle SuperSonics defeating the Eastern Conference champion Washington Bullets 4 games to 1 in the NBA Finals. The Sonics earned their only NBA title. Dennis Johnson was named NBA Finals MVP. The Finals was a rematch
1979 NBA Playoffs
14651666
San Antonio Spurs faced the Memphis Grizzlies in the first round of the playoffs. Little did everyone know how dangerous Memphis was in the postseason. The Spurs were forced to play game 1 without Manu Ginobili, as he sat out with a sprained elbow. As a result, Memphis won game 1, stealing home court advantage from the Spurs. The Spurs then rebounded in game 2 with a win. However, things deteriorated as the series shifted to Memphis for the Spurs, as the Grizzlies took both games 3 and 4, putting San Antonio on the brink of getting knocked out in
2010–11 San Antonio Spurs season
11046577
2005–06 Sacramento Kings season The 2005–06 Sacramento Kings season was the franchise’s 57th season in the National Basketball Association (NBA) and the 21st in Sacramento, California. The team began the season looking to improve upon a 50–32 record from the previous season, but off-court problems meant they declined by six wins despite a late rush. In the playoffs, the Kings lost to the San Antonio Spurs in six games in the First Round. As of 2018, this marked the last season when the Kings made the playoffs. The 2005-06 season started off poorly, as the Kings had a hard time
2005–06 Sacramento Kings season
11875804
rebounded in the playoffs with victories in both the Eastern Conference Semifinals and Eastern Conference Finals over the Atlanta Hawks and the San Antonio Spurs, respectively. This was the last time Washington had won a division title. The Bullets went through a 38-year drought without a division title until 2017 when they're named the Wizards. The Bullets had a first round bye. In the conference semifinal round of the playoffs, the Bullets needed 7 games to beat the Atlanta Hawks. The Bullets nearly lost the series as they had a 3–1 series lead. (1) Washington Bullets vs. (5) Atlanta Hawks:
1978–79 Washington Bullets season
13329699
would decline in the years following Jackson's retirement. In the 2011–12 season, the Lakers under head coach Mike Brown made the playoffs with a 41–25 record, but lost to the Thunder in the conference semifinals. The following offseason, the Lakers added perennial All-Stars Dwight Howard and Steve Nash, but they only managed a 45–37 mark, and were swept by the San Antonio Spurs in the first round. The Lakers then missed the playoffs for the first time since , with Kobe Bryant playing only six games due to injuries. The Lakers would continue to decline to a franchise-worst 17–65 in
2010 NBA Finals
803721
Spurs by taking the series to 7 games, but the Spurs prevailed in convincing fashion in the deciding Game 7. In the second round, Tim Duncan surpassed Karl Malone for fifth place in NBA Playoffs all-time points scored while the Spurs cruised past the Portland Trail Blazers in 5 games. San Antonio played the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference Finals, which marked the third straight appearance in the Western Conference Finals for the Spurs, and defeated them in 6 games to advance to the Finals for a second straight year for a rematch with the Miami Heat. It
San Antonio Spurs
803716
Finals, to take the series 4–2. During the 2012 off-season, the Spurs re-signed swingman Danny Green, who was a welcome surprise for them from the previous season, and Tim Duncan, both for three years. The Spurs would have a strong 2012–13 season, going 58–24 and earning the #2 seed in the West. The Spurs clinched the playoffs for a 16th consecutive season, as well as extended the NBA record with 50+ games for 14 consecutive seasons. On April 16, the Spurs signed two-time scoring champion, and seven-time All-Star Tracy McGrady to help in the playoffs after waiving Stephen Jackson. The
San Antonio Spurs
5234471
seemed to have the game in hand. However, a missed layup by Chauncey Billups with Detroit ahead 95-93 with nine seconds left San Antonio with a chance. On the Spurs' next possession, Robert Horry inbounded the ball to Ginobili, who headed for the left corner and dished it right back to Horry. Rasheed Wallace had left Horry to double-team Ginobili, and Horry was left alone to sink the game-winning basket with 5.8 seconds remaining in the OT. Horry was already famous for nailing last-second shots in the playoffs, including Game Four of the 2002 Western Conference Finals between the Lakers
2005 NBA Finals
9371244
series 4-2" Champion: Washington Bullets 1st Round (1) Philadelphia 76ers & (2) San Antonio Spurs have first round byes. (3) Washington Bullets vs. (6) Atlanta Hawks: "Bullets win series 2-0" (4) Cleveland Cavaliers vs. (5) New York Knicks: "Knicks win series 2-0" Last playoff meeting: This the first meeting between the Knicks and the Cavaliers Conference Semifinals (1) Philadelphia 76ers vs. (5) New York Knicks: "76ers win series 4-0" Last playoff meeting: 1968 Eastern division Semifinals (Philadelphia won 4-2) (2) San Antonio Spurs vs. (3) Washington Bullets: "Bullets win series 4-2" Conference Finals (1) Philadelphia 76ers vs. (3) Washington Bullets:
1978 NBA Playoffs
17249616
this was the first time in NBA history that the Knicks, Celtics, and Lakers missed the playoffs in the same year (the Celtics last missed the playoffs in 2007) The Denver Nuggets also missed the playoffs for the first time since 2003. The first round of the 2014 Playoffs is generally considered one of the greatest postseason rounds in NBA history. The first 11 days of the playoffs saw at least one road team win on its opponent's home floor. That ended on April 30 with the Raptors, Spurs, and Houston Rockets all winning at home against the Brooklyn Nets,
2014 NBA Playoffs
10477951
Spurs and the New Orleans Pelicans/Hornets franchise. The Hornets, who earned the home-court advantage via winning the Southwest division, were able to gain a quick 2–0 lead over the veteran Spurs. But when the series shifted to San Antonio, the Spurs regained their edge, returning the favor in Games 3 and 4. Game 5 back in New Orleans shocked many as the Hornets played off the home crowd to a 22-point rout. The home teams were clearly dominating in this series as Game 6 was more of the same in San Antonio. However, that all changed when a much anticipated
2008 NBA Playoffs
17996942
straight year. Game 7 between the Clippers and Spurs ensured a 16th straight postseason in which at least one Game 7 was played; 1999 was the last postseason to not feature a Game 7. The San Antonio Spurs became the first defending champions to be eliminated in the first round since the 2011–12 Dallas Mavericks. This was only the second time it had happened since 2000. With the Spurs being eliminated in the first round, none of the eight teams remaining at the beginning of the Conference Semifinals had previously won an NBA championship in the 21st century. After the
2015 NBA Playoffs
16608052
qualified for the playoffs on the last day of the season, defeating Houston to finish 45–37 and seeded seventh in the West. Facing the San Antonio Spurs in the first round, the injury-riddled Lakers were swept in four games. As of 2018, the Lakers have not qualified for the playoffs since this season. After being eliminated from the playoffs in the second round in the prior two seasons, the Lakers traded for three-time Defensive Player of the Year Dwight Howard and two-time Most Valuable Player (MVP) Steve Nash. It was the fourth time in league history that a team acquired
2012–13 Los Angeles Lakers season
11043369
the series. However, the Spurs would stage a 12–3 rally of their own to retake the lead and win the series in a 4–0 sweep. 2006–07 San Antonio Spurs season The 2006-07 NBA season was the Spurs' 40th season as a franchise, the 34th in San Antonio, and the 31st season in the NBA In the playoffs, the Spurs defeated the Denver Nuggets in five games in the First Round, then defeated the Phoenix Suns in six games in the Semifinals, and finally, defeating the Utah Jazz in five games in the Conference Finals to advance to the NBA Finals
2006–07 San Antonio Spurs season
7805806
Nuggets, the Indiana Pacers, and the New Jersey Nets, have all missed the playoffs, even more remarkable considering the rarity with which San Antonio has missed the playoffs at "all" (only 4 times since the merger). All four 1988/89 expansion teams (Minnesota, Miami, Orlando and Charlotte) made the playoffs for the first time. This would happen again in 2001. The two #8 seeds in this tournament, the Washington Bullets and the Los Angeles Clippers, broke long playoff droughts (Bullets eight years, Clippers only just three) with their appearances in the 1997 Playoffs. (The Bullets' last playoff appearance was in 1988;
1997 NBA Playoffs
13265734
the first meeting between the Mavericks and Grizzlies. (1) San Antonio Spurs vs. (4) Dallas Mavericks Previous Playoffs meeting: 2003 Western Conference Finals (San Antonio won 4–2) (2) Phoenix Suns vs. (4) Dallas Mavericks Previous Playoffs meeting: 2005 Western Conference Semifinals (Phoenix won 4–2) (W4) Dallas Mavericks vs. (E2) Miami Heat 2005–06 Dallas Mavericks season The 2005–06 Dallas Mavericks season was the 26th season of the franchise in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Coming off a crushing defeat to the Phoenix Suns in the second round of the playoffs last year, the Mavericks started the season off with an impressive
2005–06 Dallas Mavericks season
15690373
2011–12 San Antonio Spurs season The 2011–12 San Antonio Spurs season is the 45th season of the franchise, 39th in San Antonio and 36th in the National Basketball Association (NBA). The Spurs attained the first seed in the Western Conference, earning a berth in the NBA Playoffs, where they swept both the Utah Jazz and the Los Angeles Clippers in four games in the First Round and Semifinals respectively, only to be eliminated in six games by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference Finals. Due to the 2011 NBA lockout negotiations, the programmed pre-season schedule, along with the
2011–12 San Antonio Spurs season
15173468
the season. In the final season of the "Twin Towers", they, coupled with the newly formed "Big Three" of Duncan, Tony Parker, and Manu Ginóbili would lead the Spurs to an NBA-best record of 60-22 and would earn home court advantage throughout the entire playoffs for the third time in the last five years. The Spurs got past the Suns in a six-game series. In the conference semifinals against the Lakers, Tim Duncan was matched up against eventual teammate Robert Horry, and would dominate him the entire series. In Game 6 of the series, Duncan had 37 points and 16
Twin Towers (San Antonio Spurs)
18821767
New York Knicks, Joakim Noah signed as a free agent with the Knicks and Gasol signed with the San Antonio Spurs. The Bulls missed the playoffs for the first time since 2008 and were eliminated from playoff contention by the Detroit Pistons. 2015–16 Chicago Bulls season The 2015–16 Chicago Bulls season was the 50th season of the franchise in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Fred Hoiberg was selected as the head coach, after the firing of previous head coach Tom Thibodeau. Jimmy Butler, for the second time was voted to play in the 2016 NBA All-Star Game, which was held
2015–16 Chicago Bulls season
16544221
Glen Taylor, and vice president Kevin McHale were both suspended for one year. Despite the troubles, the Timberwolves posted an 11-game winning streak midway through the season, and finished fourth in the Midwest Division with a 47–35 record, with Garnett being selected for the 2001 NBA All-Star Game. In the first round of the playoffs, they would lose in four games to the San Antonio Spurs. Following the season, Ellis signed as a free agent with the Miami Heat and Tom Hammonds retired. (1) San Antonio Spurs vs. (8) Minnesota Timberwolves Last Playoff Meeting: 1999 Western Conference First Round (San
2000–01 Minnesota Timberwolves season
11874050
1977–78 San Antonio Spurs season The 1977–78 NBA season was the second in the NBA, the 5th in San Antonio, and the 11th as a franchise. While George Gervin was lighting up the scoreboard with his first point title, the Spurs won the Central Division with a 52–30 record. In the playoffs the Spurs would be stunned in 6 games by the eventual champion Washington Bullets In the series, Gervin averaged 33.2 points per game. George Gervin and David Thompson of the Denver Nuggets would battle all season for the NBA scoring title. On the final day of the season,
1977–78 San Antonio Spurs season
14900397
Mavericks became the third first-seeded team in NBA history to be eliminated by an eighth-seeded team in the playoffs, following the Seattle SuperSonics in 1994, and the Miami Heat in 1999. This would be the last time a 67-win team was eliminated before the Conference Finals until 2016, when the San Antonio Spurs were eliminated by the Oklahoma City Thunder in six games in the Conference Semifinals. (1) Dallas Mavericks vs. (8) Golden State Warriors Last Playoff Meeting: This is the first meeting between the Mavericks and Warriors. 2006–07 Dallas Mavericks season The 2006–07 Dallas Mavericks season was the team's
2006–07 Dallas Mavericks season
14840928
final year playing at HemisFair Arena. Following the season, Elliott was traded to the Detroit Pistons, and Johnson signed as a free agent with the Golden State Warriors. (4) Portland Trail Blazers vs. (5) San Antonio Spurs: "Spurs win series 3-1" Last Playoff Meeting: 1990 Western Conference Semifinals (Portland won 4-3) (1) Phoenix Suns vs. (5) San Antonio Spurs: "Suns win series 4-2" Last Playoff Meeting: 1992 Western Conference First Round (Phoenix won 3-0) 1992–93 San Antonio Spurs season The 1992–93 NBA season was the Spurs' 17th season in the National Basketball Association, and 26th season as a franchise. During
1992–93 San Antonio Spurs season
11049700
the defense by acquiring Dave Corzine, Dave Johnson, and Reggie Johnson. The moves paid immediate dividends as the Spurs got off to a 10-2 start, on the way to a Division Crown with a 52-30 record. In the playoffs, the Spurs lost in 7 games to the cross-state rival Houston Rockets. Notes "Note: GP= Games played; FG= Field Goals; FT= Free Throws; REB= Rebounds; AST= Assists; STL = Steals; BLK = Blocks; PTS = Points; AVG = Average" The Spurs had a first round bye. (2) San Antonio Spurs vs. (6) Houston Rockets: "Rockets win series 4-3" 1980–81 San Antonio
1980–81 San Antonio Spurs season
5087108
2005 NBA Playoffs The 2005 NBA Playoffs was the postseason tournament of the National Basketball Association's 2004–05 season. The tournament concluded with the Western Conference champion San Antonio Spurs defeating the Eastern Conference champion Detroit Pistons 4 games to 3 in the NBA Finals. Tim Duncan was named Finals MVP. The NBA Finals marked the first time since 1987 that the 2 previous champions met in the Finals (the Spurs won in 2003, the Pistons in 2004). For the Spurs, it was their 3rd title (they also won in the lockout-shortened season of 1999). The Chicago Bulls and Washington Wizards
2005 NBA Playoffs
9365484
at center instead, and ultimately played all five positions on the court in the game. Philadelphia earned their third Eastern Conference championship, but were unsuccessful in capturing their second NBA title. The Milwaukee Bucks appeared in the playoffs for the last time as a member of the West; the Houston Rockets and San Antonio Spurs likewise appeared for the last time playing for the East. They switched conferences (along with the Chicago Bulls) in the 1980–81 season with the addition of the Dallas Mavericks. Champion: Los Angeles Lakers (1) Los Angeles Lakers and (2) Milwaukee Bucks have first-round byes. (3)
1980 NBA Playoffs