In a poignant transition for the NBA, legendary San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich officially announced his retirement on Friday, May 2, 2025, after a remarkable 29-year tenure that has left an indelible mark on the league. Known for his sharp wit and deep understanding of the game, Popovich retires with a storied record of 1,422 wins and 869 losses, along with five championship titles and the most playoff victories in NBA history.
Popovich, who turned 76 this year, had been facing health challenges, including a mild stroke suffered in November 2024 that forced him to step back from coaching duties. Despite these setbacks, he plans to remain involved with the Spurs organization as the new president of basketball operations, a role that many believe is a natural progression for the coaching icon. His transition comes at a time when the Spurs are looking to build on their legacy, with Mitch Johnson, who served as interim head coach during Popovich's absence, stepping into the full-time head coaching position.
“It’s a sad day,” said Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr, who played under Popovich during his stint with the Spurs. Kerr wore a black T-shirt featuring a picture of Popovich during his pregame press conference, stating, “Pop’s gonna kill me for wearing this shirt.” He reflected on the profound impact Popovich has had on his life, saying, “Pop is one of the most important people in my life for many, many reasons, and most of them go way beyond basketball.”
Kerr, who won two NBA championships under Popovich, emphasized the importance of Popovich's contributions to coaching and team culture. “I think Pop transformed coaching over the last 20 years,” he stated. “He helped create a culture based on human values and connection, which is what we’re all searching for.” Kerr’s sentiments were echoed by Ime Udoka, the Houston Rockets head coach, who also spent a significant part of his career under Popovich's mentorship. Udoka, who donned a shirt honoring Popovich, shared, “It’s a bittersweet day, obviously, for all of us, but happy he’s in a good place and happy he’s good with his family.”
Popovich's influence extends beyond the court; he has been a vocal advocate for social issues, inspiring many in the league to use their platforms for change. Kerr noted, “I was 100% inspired by Pop to have the courage to speak out and take the hits that you’re going to take if you do.” This legacy of advocacy is part of what has made Popovich not just a great coach, but a respected figure in sports and society.
As the NBA playoffs continue, the impact of Popovich’s retirement reverberates throughout the league. Coaches and players alike have taken to social media and press conferences to express their gratitude and share stories of how Popovich shaped their careers. Becky Hammon, who coached under Popovich and now leads the WNBA's Las Vegas Aces, remarked, “That’s who mentored me, that’s who spent literally thousands of hours with me.”
Popovich's career has been marked by his ability to adapt and evolve, leading teams through different eras of basketball while maintaining a commitment to excellence. His coaching style, which emphasizes collaboration over authoritarianism, has influenced a generation of coaches, including Kerr and Udoka. Both have credited Popovich with helping to redefine what it means to be a successful coach in today's game.
While the Spurs embark on a new chapter with Johnson at the helm, the legacy of Gregg Popovich will undoubtedly continue to influence the franchise and the entire league. His contributions to the game have set a standard that many aspire to reach.
As fans and players alike reflect on Popovich's storied career, there's a sense of gratitude for the lessons learned and the memories created. “He’s one of the best to do it,” Udoka stated, encapsulating the sentiment felt across the NBA community. With the playoffs heating up, all eyes will be on how the Spurs navigate this transition and how they honor the legacy of their legendary coach.
In the wake of Popovich's retirement, the NBA faces a significant shift. With only a handful of coaches remaining from the era Popovich dominated, the league is poised for change. Miami's Erik Spoelstra and Kerr, both of whom have long tenures in the league, now stand as the most experienced active coaches, carrying forward the values instilled by Popovich.
As the Spurs prepare for their next season, they do so with the weight of Popovich's legacy on their shoulders. The organization has a rich history, and under Johnson's leadership, they aim to continue building on the foundation laid by Popovich. The Spurs' commitment to excellence and their focus on player development will be key as they look to honor their past while forging a new path forward.
Popovich's retirement marks the end of an era in the NBA, but his influence will be felt for years to come. As players and coaches continue to reflect on his impact, the lessons learned from his approach to coaching and leadership will remain a guiding force in the league. The future may hold uncertainty, but one thing is clear: Gregg Popovich has left an indelible mark on the game of basketball that will never be forgotten.
