PHOENIX –After the release of the Phoenix Suns’ 2026 preseason schedule, fans noticed it will provide something every contender needs: an honest measuring stick against one of the NBA’s toughest teams. That happens to be two matches against the defending Western Conference champion San Antonio Spurs.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The Phoenix Suns have officially released their 2026 preseason schedule, and includes two matchups with the defending Western Conference champion San Antonio Spurs.
An early measuring stick for Phoenix’s new-look roster 👀 pic.twitter.com/bvpBSTR3W5
— Ben Bliklen (@benbliklen) July 29, 2026
While preseason basketball rarely determines a team’s future, the quality of competition often reveals far more than the final score. Facing San Antonio twice in five days allows Phoenix to see how its reconstructed roster stacks up against one of the NBA’s most complete teams. Most importantly, how does the new-look frontcourt perform against San Antonio’s size and versatility?
Apr 22, 2026; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Phoenix Suns center Khaman Maluach (10) screams after dunking against the Oklahoma City Thunder in the first half during game two of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
That’s where Mark Williams and rookie Khaman Maluach enter the conversation. Maluach turned heads during Summer League with his defensive instincts, rebounding, and rim protection, creating legitimate optimism about his long-term role. Although Victor Wembanyama may not log significant preseason minutes, San Antonio still presents enough size, athleticism, and defensive discipline to give Phoenix valuable answers about its interior rotation. Those matchups can help clarify how quickly Maluach is ready to contribute and how Mark Williams fits into the Suns’ plans this season.
Feb 10, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns center Mark Williams (15) dunks the ball in the first half of the game at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Arianna Grainey-Imagn Images
The lineups that succeed, the chemistry that develops, and the defensive identity that emerges will be the main highlight for the Suns. For a team chasing a deep playoff run, October isn’t simply preparation; it’s the first opportunity to discover whether the offseason moves actually narrowed the gap between Phoenix and the conference’s current benchmark.
Dec 23, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix center Khaman Maluach (10) against the Los Angeles Lakers at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
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Reporter Benjamin Bliklen covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, and Phoenix Suns for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @BenBliklen
