Victor Wembanyama Prays with Spurs Nuns Before Finals

Before Game 1 of the NBA Finals in San Antonio, Spurs star Victor Wembanyama paused to share a moment of prayer with a group of women in Spurs jerseys worn over their religious habits. The women are the Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco, a group of Catholic sisters whose two-decade connection to the team has made them beloved local figures, often called the "Spurs Nuns."

The relationship began organically roughly 20 years ago when several retired sisters, who were native Texans and avid fans, would watch games from home or even hospital beds. They took particular notice of Coach Gregg Popovich’s occasional sideline intensity and began writing him letters of support and gentle correction. Popovich responded, thanking them and initiating an enduring bond. His late wife, Erin, also fostered close ties with the sisters and their charitable work before her passing in 2018.

For the sisters, their fandom is an extension of their mission to serve young people and the poor. "In order to reach the young where they’re at, you have to love what they love," said Sister Bernadette Mota, director of mission advancement for the Salesian Sisters. She explained that connecting with the popular...