For the Spurs, it has fast become an annual rite of spring.

As the college students begin their pilgrimage to Padre Island, the Spurs begin their climb up the standings.

Since Gregg Popovich rejoined the franchise as general manager prior to the 1994-95 season, the Spurs have gone 81-17 in March for a winning percentage of .827.

"Ever since I've been here, we've been a big chemistry team," David Robinson said. "We've never really been an overpowering team talent-wise. When we start getting everybody on the same page and feeling good about what we do, that's when we start rolling."