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Legendary Coach Gregg Popovich Retires from NBA, Takes on New Role as Spurs President
Meta Description: After 29 years with the San Antonio Spurs, basketball icon Gregg Popovich retires from coaching and assumes the role of team president.
Iconic Coach Bids Farewell to Hardwood, Embarks on New Era
In a heartfelt retirement announcement, basketball legend Gregg Popovich stepped away from his role as head coach of the San Antonio Spurs after a monumental 29-year tenure. The 76-year-old, who guided the Spurs to five NBA championships, will now serve as the team’s president, marking the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter.
It gets better every day, but that’s not enough for our future plans.— Gregg Popovich, reflecting on his health after suffering a stroke in November
Popovich, known for his sharp wit and jovial demeanor, joked about his new role, “I have a new job. I am no longer a coach, I’m ‘El Jefe’,” he said, presenting a black T-shirt bearing the Spanish phrase for ‘The Boss’.
Popovich’s Extraordinary Legacy
- 5 NBA titles won as head coach of the Spurs (1999, 2003, 2005, 2007, 2014)
- 1412 regular-season victories, 170 playoff victories – most in NBA history by a coach
- Olympic gold medal with USA Basketball at the Tokyo 2021 Olympic Games
Popovich’s leadership brought sustained success to the Spurs, making him one of the most decorated and respected coaches in NBA history.
Road to Recovery Aided by Former Protégés
Popovich’s return to the Spurs was bolstered by the support of his former protégés, Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobili, who stood by his side during the announcement. “Timmy and Manu were here for all my training sessions. They say they love me, want to be there for me and catch me if I fall. They give rehabilitation people new ideas what they can do with me,” Coach Pop said.
Mitch Johnson Takes the Reins
With Popovich’s retirement, his longtime assistant, Mitch Johnson, will take over as the new head coach of the Spurs.
Did you know?
Popovich’s 29-year reign in San Antonio is the longest continuous coaching tenure in the NBA’s modern era, surpassing the great Don Nelson’s 21-year stint with the Milwaukee Bucks.
Let’s Chat: What’s Next for Gregg Popovich and the San Antonio Spurs?
Now that Popovich has retired from coaching, what do you think his impact will be in his new role as team president? How will Mitch Johnson fare in his new position leading the Spurs? Share your thoughts below!
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