Gregg Popovich says Spurs starters will play against Warriors
Get breaking news and SI’s biggest stories instantly. Download the new Sports Illustrated app (iOS or Android) and personalize your experience by following your favorite teams and SI writers.
Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich told reporters that San Antonio’s starters will play against the Golden State Warriors on Thursday night.
Golden State, at 69–9, is chasing 73 wins while the No. 1 seed remains in play for the 65–12 Spurs.
Thursday marks the first NBA game ever with each team having at least 65 wins. The two teams will also play on Sunday in San Antonio.
• DATA DIMES: Will the Warriors win 73 games? | Tracker: Warriors vs. Bulls
The Warriors lost to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Tuesday night, which dropped them to 69–9 on the year. The team must win its remaining four games in order to set an NBA record with 73 victories.
Besides playing the Denver Nuggets, San Antonio will face the Oklahoma City Thunder and Dallas Mavericks before the season ends.
•BALLARD: Meet the guy who guards Curry | Inside Warriors practice
In addition to their two games against the Spurs, the Warriors will meet the Memphis Grizzlies twice.
Open Floor: SI's NBA podcast
Sports Illustrated Podcast Network
If the Spurs were to win their last five contests and the Warriors lose at least one game against the Grizzlies, the Spurs would finish with a 70–12 record and a 3–1 head-to-head record over the Warriors which would give them the Western Conference No. 1 seed.
