The 2014 Western Conference Semifinals vs. San Antonio
A grueling battle against the dynasty that forged the Clippers' contender identity.
The 2014 Western Conference Semifinals between the Los Angeles Clippers and the San Antonio Spurs stands as a pivotal chapter in franchise history. Following their first-round triumph over the Memphis Grizzlies, the Clippers faced the defending conference champions and eventual NBA title winners. This series marked the team's deepest playoff run since the early 1980s, signaling a shift from perennial underdogs to legitimate contenders.
- Season
- 2013-14
- Round
- Western Conference Semifinals
- Opponent
- San Antonio Spurs
- Series Result
- Spurs advanced (Clippers eliminated)
- Key Player
- Chris Paul
- Home Arena
- Staples Center
Lore & Background
This run is often cited by fans as the birth of the 'Bandits' mentality—a reputation for toughness, clutch shooting, and defensive grit that would define the franchise's identity for years to come. While they fell short against the eventual champions, the performance proved that the Paul-Griffin-DJ trio could dismantle elite defenses. It was a moment of maturation where heartbreak was overshadowed by the realization that the ceiling had been shattered.
In Their Own Story
The tunnel at Staples Center hummed with nervous energy before tip-off. Chris Paul adjusted his headband, eyes fixed on the hardwood beyond the lights. The crowd roared, a wall of sound that vibrated through the floorboards. He knew this wasn't just about winning a game; it was about proving a point to a league that had long overlooked them. As he stepped onto the court, the noise faded into focus. This was their moment.
Reader's Guide
The series opened with a tense contest at Staples Center, where the Clippers' defense struggled initially against San Antonio's fluid offense. Los Angeles found their footing in Game Two, utilizing Chris Paul's playmaking to control the tempo and secure a crucial home victory. As the series shifted to Texas, the Spurs' experience began to show, forcing the Clippers into overtime battles that tested their physical limits. The middle games became a war of attrition. DeAndre Jordan dominated the paint on both ends, challenging Tim Duncan for every rebound. However, San Antonio's depth proved overwhelming in critical moments, particularly during late-game possessions where Tony Parker found open looks. Back at Staples for Game Five and Six, the crowd roared louder than ever, creating a hostile environment that nearly swayed the momentum back to Los Angeles. Ultimately, the Spurs advanced to the Western Conference Finals on their way to the championship. While the Clippers fell short of advancing further, this series marked a cultural shift within the franchise. It proved they could hang with the league's elite dynasty, setting the foundation for the 'Bandits' identity that would define the next season.
Did You Know?
- The Spurs went on to win the NBA Championship later that same postseason.
- This was the Clippers' first playoff series victory since 1985 before facing San Antonio.
- Chris Paul averaged over 20 points per game throughout the series against the Spurs.