Gregg Popovich has officially stepped down as head coach of the San Antonio Spurs, bringing an extraordinary three-decade career to a close.
On Friday, Popovich announced his decision, stating, “While my love and passion for the game remain, I’ve decided it’s time to step away as head coach.”
His departure marks the end of an era that saw the Spurs clinch five NBA championships and Popovich become the league’s all-time wins leader, leading to his induction into the Basketball Hall of Fame.
Transitioning into a new role, Popovich will remain with the Spurs as team president. Mitch Johnson, who took over coaching duties for the Spurs after Popovich’s stroke in November, will take on the position of head coach going forward.
At 76, Popovich’s recent health challenges limited his coaching activities this season, as he missed all but five games due to complications from a stroke. Despite previously expressing a desire to return to coaching, he ultimately decided to move on.
“I’m forever grateful to the wonderful players, coaches, staff and fans who allowed me to serve them as the Spurs head coach and am excited for the opportunity to continue to support the organization, community and city that are so meaningful to me,” he remarked in his farewell announcement.
Finishing his coaching career with a notable record of 1,422 wins against 869 losses, Popovich also holds the impressive title of winning 170 playoff games with the Spurs—the most for any coach with a single team.
His impact on the franchise and the game of basketball is immeasurable, reflecting in the words of Spurs icon Manu Ginobili, who described Popovich as “the best there ever was.”
During his tenure, Popovich was recognized as a three-time NBA Coach of the Year and led the United States men’s basketball team to a gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics. He coached renowned Hall of Famers including Ginobili, David Robinson, Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, Dominique Wilkins, and Pau Gasol, showcasing his ability to develop and lead elite talent through the years.
Popovich started his remarkable journey as a coach when he took the reins of the Spurs on December 10, 1996, amidst a 3-15 record and at a time when the franchise was struggling. His first major decision coincided with the return of David Robinson, a move that would eventually set the foundation for a winning culture.
His leadership style has deeply resonated beyond the confines of the court, as noted by Chris Paul, who played for the Spurs this past season. Paul reflects on witnessing Popovich’s dedication to training and rehabilitation after his health issues, noting his remarkable work ethic and character.
“I actually had a chance to be in there while Pop is doing rehab or whatnot. So, to see how hard he works, that’s what I’m glad I got a chance to see,” Paul shared.
Under Popovich, the Spurs won their first NBA championship in 1999, with subsequent titles coming in 2003, 2005, 2007, and 2014. The team maintained an impressive record over the years, showcasing consistency with 22 consecutive winning seasons where they never won less than 60% of their games during the first two decades of his coaching career.
As he steps back, the Spurs are in the midst of a rebuilding phase, centered around the highly touted French star Victor Wembanyama, who is expected to play a significant role as the franchise moves forward.
Popovich’s influence stretched well beyond the players he coached. He made history by hiring Becky Hammon as the NBA’s first full-time female assistant coach and also gave her opportunities to lead as a Summer League head coach.
His contributions to the sport were acknowledged widely, as Peter J. Holt, the Spurs managing partner, described Popovich’s impact as “profound” on the Spurs, the San Antonio community, and the game itself.
“His accolades and awards don’t do justice to the impact he has had on so many people,” Holt commented. “He is truly one-of-one as a person, leader, and coach.”
Popovich’s coaching philosophy centered around teamwork, trust, and communication—qualities that fostered a strong bond among players and staff. Despite a reputation for being grumpy, Popovich is also known for his sense of humor and humanity. Jayson Tatum, who played under him in the Tokyo Olympics, noted his multifaceted personality, contrasting the serious public persona with the person he encountered.
Popovich experienced both triumph and heartbreak during his coaching tenure, notably facing a devastating loss in the 2013 NBA Finals against the Miami Heat, despite leading the series before an unexpected turn of events in Game 6. Yet, his class and dignity after that loss were exemplary, revealing the fundamental qualities that characterized Popovich’s approach to the game.
After securing a championship in 2014 against that same team, he once again extended congratulations to Miami’s coach Erik Spoelstra, illustrating his sportsmanship.
With one of the longest coaching tenures in U.S. major pro sports history, Popovich’s 29 seasons with the Spurs are matched only by a handful of other iconic figures in sports history. Iconic coaches like Tom Landry, Curly Lambeau, and Connie Mack have tenures that exceed his, but very few can boast the sustained success and lasting impact he had on the game.
“I’ve got a video on my phone that’s like priceless,” Paul noted, reminiscing about his time with Popovich and how players remained inspired by his example.
Popovich’s contributions to basketball and the community in San Antonio will resonate for generations, as he leaves behind a legacy defined by excellence, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the game and his players.
Though his time as head coach has concluded, Popovich remains poised to contribute to the Spurs in his new role, continually supporting a team and city that have become synonymous with his outstanding coaching career.
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