Kendrick Perkins has set the NBA world abuzz with a bold prediction that thrusts Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs into the spotlight. On a recent episode of First Take, Perkins didn't just praise the Spurs; he went all in, declaring them his pick to win the NBA championship this year.
Now, that's a statement that shakes things up. Perkins' prediction challenges the rising narrative that the Oklahoma City Thunder are the team to beat in the West. Instead, he's shining a light on a young Spurs squad that's gaining momentum, led by the dynamic Victor Wembanyama.
"The San Antonio Spurs are going to win the NBA Championship."@KendrickPerkins doubles down on the Spurs knocking the Thunder out of the playoffs 😯 pic.twitter.com/g9bs08Wpqw
— First Take (@FirstTake) March 17, 2026
Perkins didn't mince words. “I don’t give a damn about all this, they don’t have the experience talk,” he asserted, confidently predicting that San Antonio will secure home court advantage up to the conference finals. His conviction mirrors the energy and belief that's palpable in San Antonio right now.
At the heart of this surge is Wembanyama, whose evolution into a versatile powerhouse has been remarkable. Perkins lauded his transformation from a traditional big man to a player who can stretch the floor and lead by example. Night after night, Wembanyama's growth is evident.
But it’s not a one-man show. Stephon Castle has emerged as a reliable playmaker, with his chemistry with Wembanyama becoming a cornerstone of the Spurs' success. Perkins highlighted this connection, noting their playoff-ready synergy.
Adding to the mix are veterans like Harrison Barnes and De’Aaron Fox, who bring crucial experience and calmness to the team. The Spurs' system thrives on what Perkins calls “agenda-free basketball,” where anyone can rise to the occasion and change the game in an instant.
As the race to the NBA Finals intensifies, the big question looms: Can the Spurs live up to Perkins' prediction and topple the Thunder when it counts? The stage is set, and the basketball world will be watching.