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When Gregg Popovich retired, the longest-tenured coach in the league became Eric Spoelstra, who has been at the helm for the Miami Heat since 2008. Pop started his run in 1996, so Spo has a way to go to catch up. Just looking down the list, it’s kind
of amazing that the coach that is fifth is coaching tenure is Mark Daignault, who seems like he started yesterday, but actually started in 2020, which is not that long ago. Coach Spoelstra is nowhere near the end of his storied career, and he’s one of the best motivators and strategists in the pro game. Playing a game against the Heat, especially in Miami, is always a challenge, and it presents a unique learning experience for Coach Mitch Johnson and the Silver and Black.
It’s only the second game of preseason, and the Spurs started off a few days ago with an easy win over the Guangzhou Loong Lions, who were overmatched from the beginning, despite having several former NBA players on the roster. It’s really hard to tell how good the Spurs are yet, with half of the roster missing and with their only test against an opponent of unknown quality. The Heat will provide a much better measuring stick of how much the Spurs have improved from last year, but only a little bit. Coach Johnson is still going to limit the minutes of his stars and treat this game as an extended practice. But it’s going to be great to see a healthy Wembanyama and the rest of the squad hitting the court for at least a few minutes. It will also give fans a chance to see Carter Bryant develop in real time as he bounces all over the court with abandon. New additions like Lindy Waters will take the opportunity to earn a rotation spot, and even garbage time will be fun to watch.
Game Prediction:
Victor Wembanyama will set a new preseason block record with 20, while playing less than 20 minutes.
GO SPURS GOOOO!!!
San Antonio Spurs at Miami Heat
October 8, 2025 | 6:30 PM CT
Streaming: NBA League Pass
TV: NBA TV
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