But it’s also good to have a brain. Fortunately, the Spurs have R.C. Buford’s. He’s the general manager who has provided his expertise with this team in some capacity since 1994, but who has been in his current position since 2002. He and head coach Gregg Popovich are primarily responsible for drafting Parker 28^th overall in 2001 and Ginobili in the second round, the 57^th pick overall, in 1999, although he didn’t join the Spurs until 2002.

Popovich is also a marvel. He’s that rare taskmaster who hasn’t caused his high-priced stars to go running to their agents every time he says something they don’t like. Usually coaches like Pop have a short shelf life in one place — see Larry Brown — but he’s finishing his 11^th season as head coach of the Spurs. Popovich happens to be that rare head coach in sports who can adeptly balance both a halo and a mean streak.

The Spurs are revved up at the right time. They’re playing not-to-be-denied basketball, complete with killer instinct. The Utah Jazz is a fine team, but it didn’t stand a chance against San Antonio in a seven-game series. Game 5, in which the Spurs dismantled the Jazz, 109-84, to gain a berth in the Finals for the third time in five years, was an example of just how determined they are to take care of business.

The Spurs also happen to have the oldest roster in the NBA. That’s a little deceiving, because Bowen and Horry (36), Brent Barry (35) and Finley (33) bring down the curve. The core of the team — Duncan (31), Ginobili (29) and Parker (25) — have a lot of good years left.

Still, there’s a sense of urgency around the Spurs that’s palpable. They’re too poised and confident to worry, but they’re also intelligent enough to know that each opportunity to win a championship is too precious to be squandered.

That’s why they’ll win. Because they believe this is their time. And a fourth championship would confirm it.

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