SAN ANTONIO – The San Antonio Spurs begin defense of their fifth NBA championship Tuesday night, when they take on the Dallas Mavericks at the AT&T Center.
Before the game, the team's latest championship banner will be unveiled and players and coaches will receive their championship rings.
While the Spurs have won five titles, they have yet to win back-to-back championships.
With 2014 NBA Finals MVP Kawhi Leonard blossoming and preparing to take over as the face of the franchise, the "Big Three," a deep bench and the reigning NBA Coach of the Year Gregg Popovich back, the Spurs are ready to roll again.
"If the Spurs are going to win back-to-back titles, this is the season," said KSAT 12 Sports Director Gregg Simmons. "I believe they can accomplish that goal with everyone back and adding Kyle Anderson of UCLA. He reminds me of a young Boris Diaw. Great range and passing ability for a big man."
Simmons said the key to the Spurs repeating will be the team's health.
"If they stay healthy, I believe they will repeat at Western Conference Champions and face Chicago in The NBA Finals. Let's hope."
History will also be made at the game as former San Antonio Stars and WNBA All-Star Becky Hammon will make her regular season debut as the NBA's first full-time female assistant coach.
Fans attending the game will be in for a big treat, as they will receive a commemorative NBA Championship ring.