The San Antonio Spurs are rapidly becoming a focal point for the NBA, evidenced by the league’s decision to add two more nationally televised games featuring the team to its schedule: a March 10th matchup against the Boston Celtics and a March 30th contest against the Chicago Bulls. Both games will be broadcast on Peacock in addition to the FanDuel Sports Network, with the Celtics game similarly airing on NBC.
This surge in national exposure brings the Spurs’ total number of nationally televised games to 29 for the current season, a figure that has drawn comparisons to the treatment of previous rising stars and franchises. The NBA had not previously flexed this many contests for any team, even during the ascensions of players like Zion Williamson, the Golden State Warriors, or LeBron James.
The driving force behind this increased attention is widely believed to be rookie Victor Wembanyama, but the league’s commitment extends beyond individual talent. The Spurs, despite early-season injury challenges, have demonstrated a dynamic and engaging style of play, attracting a growing fanbase and positive media attention.
The Spurs’ reputation for resting players, stemming from decisions made by former coach Gregg Popovich to prioritize player health and manage demanding schedules, has been a point of contention in the past. However, the current team, when healthy, has consistently taken the court. Wembanyama, despite a blood clot earlier in the season, played 71 games in his first NBA season, demonstrating a commitment to availability. Tim Duncan, in his final four seasons, averaged over 69 games played, challenging the narrative of the Spurs prioritizing rest over competition.
The NBA’s willingness to showcase the Spurs alongside established powerhouses like the New York Knicks, Oklahoma City Thunder, Los Angeles Lakers, and Golden State Warriors underscores the league’s belief in the team’s potential and marketability. Wembanyama himself has expressed the view that a league’s face should emerge organically, but the NBA’s actions suggest a clear preference for the young star and his team.
On February 11, 2026, the Boston Celtics defeated the Chicago Bulls 124-105. Payton Pritchard led the Celtics with 26 points, while Nikola Vucevic scored 19 points and grabbed 11 rebounds. Rob Dillingham paced the Bulls with 16 points. The game was played just before the All-Star break, with both teams missing key contributors due to injury. Anfernee Simons, recently traded to the Bulls, finished with seven points in his first game under 15 points in four consecutive starts.
The Bulls are scheduled to host the Toronto Raptors on February 19th, while the Celtics will travel to face the Golden State Warriors on the same date.
