Gregg Popovich, a name synonymous with basketball excellence, has officially stepped down as head coach of the San Antonio Spurs, transitioning into the role of president of basketball operations. This marks the end of an era for the legendary coach who has left an indelible mark on the NBA over four decades. Popovich’s coaching tenure, spanning the 1990s, 2000s, 2010s, and 2020s, saw him lead the Spurs to five NBA championships, establishing a modern benchmark for coaching success and a dynasty that defined an era of basketball.
The announcement comes after Popovich suffered a stroke in November and was unable to return to the bench. Mitch Johnson has been named as his successor, ushering in a new chapter for the Spurs. Though no longer patrolling the sidelines, Popovich’s influence will continue to be felt within the organization. His passion for the game remains undiminished, and he has expressed his commitment to supporting the Spurs, the community, and the city he has called home for so long.
Popovich’s impact on the NBA extends far beyond the championship banners hanging in the AT&T Center. His innovative coaching strategies, his commitment to international scouting, and his unwavering advocacy for social justice have shaped the league and inspired countless players and coaches.
One of Popovich’s greatest achievements was his ability to adapt his coaching style to the evolving landscape of the NBA. He initially built his dynasty around the dominant inside presence of David Robinson and Tim Duncan, capitalizing on the era of towering centers and power forwards. However, as the game transitioned towards a more perimeter-oriented style, Popovich embraced the change. He recognized the importance of the 3-point shot and redesigned his offense to maximize its effectiveness.
The 2014 championship-winning Spurs team exemplified Popovich’s adaptability. With Duncan nearing the end of his career, Popovich empowered Tony Parker, Kawhi Leonard, Manu Ginobili, Patty Mills, and Danny Green to take on larger roles in the offense, encouraging them to shoot 3s with confidence. The result was a fluid and dynamic offensive system that overwhelmed the Miami Heat in the Finals.
Popovich’s influence on the NBA extends beyond tactical adjustments. He was a pioneer in recognizing the value of international players and incorporating them into his team. His degree in Soviet studies and his intelligence training at the Air Force Academy gave him a unique understanding of basketball’s global reach.
Parker, Ginobili, Boris Diaw, and Mills were all instrumental in the Spurs’ success, representing a diverse range of international talent. By the time the Spurs drafted Victor Wembanyama with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 draft, international players were ubiquitous throughout the league, winning MVP awards and leading their teams to championships. Popovich played a crucial role in paving the way for this globalized era of basketball.
Beyond his coaching prowess, Popovich was also a shrewd talent evaluator. He held a prominent role in the Spurs’ front office, serving as general manager and vice president of basketball operations before becoming head coach. His ability to identify and develop talent was a key factor in the Spurs’ sustained success.
While drafting Duncan and Wembanyama with the No. 1 overall picks was a relatively straightforward decision, Popovich and his staff excelled at finding hidden gems later in the draft. Ginobili, Parker, and Leonard were all drafted outside of the top 10, yet they blossomed into Hall of Fame players under Popovich’s guidance. Dejounte Murray and Derrick White, both late first-round picks, also developed into valuable NBA players.
The Spurs’ ability to consistently find and develop talent allowed them to maintain a competitive roster even in a small market. Their continuity in coaching and management created a stable environment that fostered growth and innovation.
Popovich’s coaching tree is extensive and influential. Many of his former assistants have gone on to become successful head coaches in the NBA and WNBA, including Mike Budenholzer, Quin Snyder, Brett Brown, Mike Brown, Ime Udoka, Becky Hammon, Monty Williams, Taylor Jenkins, Jacque Vaughn, James Borrego, Jim Boylen, Will Hardy, and Mitch Johnson. Even Steve Kerr and Doc Rivers, both former players under Popovich, have achieved significant success as head coaches.
Popovich’s coaching philosophy emphasizes player development, teamwork, and accountability. He instills a culture of excellence that permeates every aspect of the organization. His former assistants have carried these principles with them, spreading Popovich’s influence throughout the league.
Beyond basketball, Popovich is a passionate advocate for human rights and social justice. He is not afraid to speak out on controversial issues and use his platform to promote positive change. His outspokenness has earned him both praise and criticism, but he remains steadfast in his commitment to his values.
Popovich is also known for his appreciation of fine food and wine. His dinners with his staff and players are legendary, providing an opportunity for them to connect on a personal level. He believes that building relationships is essential for fostering a strong team culture.
While Popovich can be cantankerous at times, he is also a deeply compassionate person. He cares about his players and staff, and he values the relationships he has formed through coaching. His legacy extends far beyond the basketball court, encompassing his commitment to social justice, his mentorship of countless coaches and players, and his unwavering dedication to the San Antonio community. His move to president of basketball operations is a testament to his continued commitment. With the Spurs recent naming of Stephon Castle as Rookie of the Year, the fourth Spurs player to win the award, Popovich seems to be on his way to another dynasty in his new role.
