San Antonio Spurs: 5 keys to contending in 2017-18

OAKLAND, CA - MAY 14: Andre Iguodala #9 of the Golden State Warriors defends against Kawhi Leonard #2 of the San Antonio Spurs during Game One of the NBA Western Conference Finals at ORACLE Arena on May 14, 2017 in Oakland, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /

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3. Drawing on experience

The San Antonio Spurs have a large number of players with good levels of experience. Leonard, Mills and Green are entering the primes of their careers. Leonard has played six seasons, Mills and Green have both played eight.

There are a large number of players on this team with more than 10 years experience. Aldridge, and Gay both have spent 11 years in the league. Manu Ginobili has spent 15 years in the league. Gasol and Tony Parker have both spent 16 years in the league.

However, it is not just a matter of how long they have spent in the league. Only Aldridge and Gay have never won a championship on this roster, which matters come playoff time.

The other six players have 13 championship rings between them. This means that the bulk of the team knows what it takes to win. Parker and Ginobili have won four championships each.

These players will utilize this experience in game situations. They will also teach some of the younger players what is required for them to be successful in the NBA.

There will be situations throughout the 2017-18 season where San Antonio will get into uncomfortable situations during games. Knowing how to respond to these will help gain a few extra wins on the season and hopefully in the postseason too.

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