The pep rally served as the final major celebration before Game 1.
SAN ANTONIO — Excitement is reaching a fever pitch across San Antonio as fans count down the hours until the Spurs tip off Game 1 of the Finals on Wednesday night.
Hundreds of fans packed Hemisfair’s Tower Park Tuesday evening for the city’s official pep rally, with some arriving as early as 2 p.m. to secure a spot.
By the time festivities kicked off at 7 p.m., a long line of silver-and-black faithful stretched through the park.
From championship memorabilia to chants of “Go Spurs Go,” fans proudly showed their support for the hometown team.
One fan, Geneva, brought along a special piece of Spurs history — a 2003 NBA Championship medal featuring Spurs legend David Robinson.
Others reflected on how this Finals run feels different from those in years past.
“It’s a lot bigger. The diversity is bigger,” said longtime fan Ms. Birdy. “It’s nothing like 1999. It’s more special.”
As the crowd cheered and celebrated, fans shared their hopes for the team’s postseason journey.
“I’m looking forward to the win, the championship, the Wem-V-P — all of it,” said Spurs fan Tyler.
Another supporter said the team’s success is bringing the entire community together.
“It brings a lot of happiness to the city,” he said. “That’s what it’s all about — getting this city all united like this.”
The pep rally served as the final major celebration before Game 1, and if Tuesday night’s turnout was any indication, San Antonio is ready.
The Spurs host Game 1 at Frost Bank Center on Wednesday at 7:30 p.m., carrying home-court advantage into the Finals.
For fans across the Alamo City, the wait is almost over.