{
  "id": 5170463,
  "title": "Spurs Jackals' new 18-and-up age requirement has fans split ahead of upcoming season",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/02/spurs-jackals-new-18-and-up-age-requirement-has-fans-split-ahead-of",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-02T20:54:24.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/spurs-jackals-18-age-requirement-205424397.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The San Antonio Spurs have introduced a new 18-and-up age requirement for their most enthusiastic fan section, the Jackals. The change, set to take effect during the 2026-27 season, has sparked controversy among fans who argue that the policy should allow children to participate and grow with their fandom before joining as adults. Founded by Spurs star Victor Wembanyama alongside the Jackals, the program has expanded its \"Lair\" in Sections 114 and 115 at Frost Bank Center and added 100 members ahead of the 2025-26 season. Auditions for new members are scheduled for September 19, 2025. The Jackals defended the decision, stating that it is a reflection of the group's growth and aims to create a more intense atmosphere with constant standing, chanting, and coordinated support. The requirement costs $999 per person and provides access to exclusive benefits, including tickets, gear, and meetups.",
  "summary": "Spurs fans are debating the Jackals' new 18-and-up membership requirement as the supporter section prepares to expand for the 2026-27 season.",
  "key_points": [
    "San Antonio Spurs introduce 18-and-up age requirement for Jackals.",
    "Change for 2026-27 season sparks fan controversy.",
    "Auditions scheduled for September 19, 2025."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}