NBA Power Rankings: Thunder and Spurs Climb, New No. 1 Emerges

The Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs continue their hot starts, but a new team has taken the top spot in the latest NBA power rankings.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 11:45pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting depicting the fragmented, multi-angled movements of basketball players on a court, with their forms broken down into abstract shapes and planes of vibrant colors.The NBA's new power dynamics are on full display, as rising stars and unexpected contenders shake up the league's hierarchy.Brooklyn Today

The latest NBA power rankings have seen some major shakeups, with the Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs continuing their impressive early-season runs, but a new team has taken the coveted No. 1 spot. The rankings highlight the rising stars and veteran leadership driving these teams' success as the season heats up.

Why it matters

The NBA power rankings provide a barometer for how teams are performing relative to one another, offering insights into which squads are emerging as true contenders. The shifts at the top signal a potential changing of the guard, with new forces rising to challenge the league's traditional powerhouses.

The details

The Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs have both surged up the rankings on the backs of breakout performances from their young cores. In Oklahoma City, the duo of Cam Whitmore and Michael Porter Jr. have sparked the team's offense, while the Spurs have leaned on the dominant two-way play of Victor Wembanyama. However, it is a new team that has taken over the No. 1 spot, showcasing the parity and unpredictability of the current NBA landscape.

  • On October 26th, the Washington Wizards faced off against the Charlotte Hornets.
  • Also on October 26th, the Brooklyn Nets took on the San Antonio Spurs.

The players

Cam Whitmore

A rising star for the Oklahoma City Thunder, known for his explosive dunking ability.

Michael Porter Jr.

A key contributor for the Brooklyn Nets, providing scoring punch and athleticism.

Victor Wembanyama

The highly touted rookie sensation for the San Antonio Spurs, making an immediate impact with his dominant two-way play.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Wembanyama is a game-changer, and the Spurs are building something special around him.”

— Analyst

“Whitmore and Porter Jr. have been a revelation for the Thunder, sparking their rise up the rankings.”

— Commentator

The takeaway

The latest NBA power rankings showcase the league's parity and the emergence of new contenders, as the Thunder, Spurs, and a surprise new No. 1 team have all made significant strides early in the season.