The Spurs sideline will never look the same.
After 29 unforgettable seasons, Gregg Popovich — the winningest coach in NBA history — is stepping down as head coach of the San Antonio Spurs. The 76-year-old legend, who shaped a dynasty and mentored generations, will now transition into a new role as the team’s President of Basketball Operations.
A Coach Like No Other
Popovich wasn’t just a coach — he was the coach. Known for his razor-sharp basketball mind, biting wit, and deep empathy for his players, “Coach Pop” turned small-market San Antonio into a global basketball powerhouse.
He led the Spurs to five NBA titles (1999, 2003, 2005, 2007, 2014), made the playoffs 22 straight seasons, and racked up a record 1,422 regular-season wins. But his legacy stretches far beyond the scoreboard.
“Pop cared about who you were as a person before who you were as a player,” said former Spur Terry Porter. “That made you want to run through a wall for him.”
A Sudden But Not Unexpected Goodbye
Popovich’s decision comes after a difficult year. He suffered a mild stroke last November and missed most of the season. Though he hinted in February that he hoped to return, another recent medical scare seems to have confirmed what fans feared: the end of an era was near.
“I still love the game,” Popovich said in a statement Friday. “But it’s time. I’m grateful to everyone who let me be a part of this incredible journey.”
More Than Just X’s and O’s
Popovich was never afraid to speak his mind — whether it was about basketball, social issues, or politics. He became a rare voice of conscience in sports, calling for gun reform, defending human rights, and fiercely criticizing former President Donald Trump.
That honesty earned him respect, and sometimes controversy, but never silence.
“He’s a generational leader,” said Heat coach Erik Spoelstra. “His influence goes far beyond the court.”
The Architect of a Global Team
Born in Indiana to Serbian and Croatian parents, Popovich brought a worldly vision to San Antonio. Under his leadership, the Spurs became one of the most international teams in league history, with stars from Argentina (Ginóbili), France (Parker), and beyond.
He also broke barriers by hiring Becky Hammon, the first full-time female assistant coach in NBA history.
What’s Next for Pop — and the Spurs?
Though stepping down as coach, Popovich isn’t leaving the building. As President of Basketball Operations, he’ll continue shaping the franchise’s future — likely mentoring whoever inherits the clipboard and continuing to build around phenom Victor Wembanyama.
It’s the close of one chapter, but the book isn’t finished.
A Farewell Worth Remembering
Popovich wasn’t flashy. He didn’t chase headlines. But he leaves behind one of the greatest coaching legacies the sport has ever seen.
He was the coach who built a dynasty, won with humility, led with heart, and never forgot to laugh — even at himself.
As he once joked after breaking the NBA wins record:
“This is the most important thing in my life… My grandkids can go for a hike.”
Thank you, Pop. For the wins, the wisdom, and the wine.
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