San Antonio Spurs vs. Indiana Pacers: A Dominant Preseason Win and Season Outlook

The San Antonio Spurs sent a clear message to the NBA with a commanding 124-108 victory over the Indiana Pacers on October 13, 2025. This preseason triumph wasn’t just a win; it was a statement of depth and emerging talent, highlighted by the return of rookie Stephon Castle. For Canadian fans tracking the league’s rising stars and playoff contenders, this game offered a compelling preview of a Spurs team that looks ready to climb the Western Conference ranks.

While the preseason record is perfect at 4-0, the real test begins with the regular season. The matchup data reveals a team firing on all cylinders, with Victor Wembanyama leading the charge and a supporting cast that’s finding its rhythm. Let’s break down the key takeaways from this clash and what it means for both franchises moving forward.

Game Recap: Spurs 124, Pacers 108

The Spurs controlled the game from the outset, building a lead with efficient scoring and defensive pressure. The return of guard Stephon Castle provided a significant boost, facilitating the offense and connecting on key plays with Julian Champagnie. The Pacers, despite strong efforts from Bennedict Mathurin and Pascal Siakam, couldn’t contain San Antonio’s balanced attack, particularly in the second half where the Spurs pulled away decisively.

Quarter-by-Quarter Breakdown

Key Performers and Team Stats

Victor Wembanyama was the standout, dropping 27 points and showcasing why he’s a franchise cornerstone. The Spurs’ ball movement was exceptional, leading to high-percentage shots. The Pacers struggled with turnovers, which the Spurs converted into 22 points, a critical difference in the game’s outcome.

Critical Game Statistics

Context and Recent History

This preseason victory adds to a positive recent trend for the Spurs against Indiana. Looking back at the 2024-25 season, the Spurs also secured a dominant 140-110 win over the Pacers in January 2025. These performances suggest a favourable matchup for San Antonio, leveraging their size and defensive schemes against Indiana’s pace.

The teams have also been connected through the trade market. In a minor move at the 2025 NBA draft, the Spurs traded the No. 38 pick to the Pacers for a future second-round pick and cash. Earlier, at the 2024 trade deadline, San Antonio sent veteran Doug McDermott to Indiana, a move that was criticized by some analysts as the Spurs’ “biggest mistake” of that deadline given McDermott’s shooting prowess.

What This Means for the 2026 Season

For the Spurs, the preseason perfection and cohesive play are promising signs. With a core of Wembanyama, Castle, and De’Aaron Fox (when healthy), they project as a potential playoff team in the tough West. Their 23-7 record in simulated standings data points to a team with serious aspirations.

For the Pacers, the preseason is about tuning up. The loss highlights areas for improvement, particularly on defense and ball security. With players like Tyrese Haliburton (not featured in this preseason game but a key star) and Pascal Siakam, they remain a dangerous offensive team in the Eastern Conference, but consistency will be key.

Injury Watch and Roster Notes

Player health will be crucial. The Spurs have listed De’Aaron Fox as “Day-To-Day” in recent updates, and managing his return will be important. For the Pacers, navigating the NBA’s trade and salary rules is part of the season’s fabric—players like Isaiah Jackson, who re-signed using Bird rights, have specific trade restrictions until mid-January.

As the trade deadline of February 5, 2026, approaches, both teams could be active. The Spurs, with a burgeoning young roster, might look for complementary pieces, while the Pacers could be “selective sellers” to reshape their squad around their core.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the final score of the Spurs vs. Pacers preseason game on October 13, 2025?

The San Antonio Spurs defeated the Indiana Pacers by a score of 124-108 in their preseason matchup.

How did Victor Wembanyama perform against the Pacers?

Victor Wembanyama was a dominant force, leading the Spurs with 27 points. His performance was a key factor in San Antonio’s victory and preseason success.

What is the significance of the recent trade between the Spurs and Pacers?

In June 2025, the Spurs traded the No. 38 overall draft pick to the Indiana Pacers in exchange for a future second-round pick and cash. It was a minor asset-management move that followed a earlier trade sending Doug McDermott to Indiana in 2024.

Where do the Spurs and Pacers stand in their respective conferences?

Based on early-season projections, the Spurs are positioned as a top team in the Western Conference with a simulated record of 23-7. The Pacers are a playoff-calibre team in the Eastern Conference but are working to solidify their defense and consistency.