After nearly three decades on the sidelines and five NBA championships under his belt, San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich has officially announced his retirement from coaching. The announcement marks the end of one of the most successful and respected coaching careers in professional basketball history.
Popovich, 75, will step away from coaching after serving as the head coach of the Spurs for 29 seasons, making him the longest-tenured coach in NBA history. Known for his no-nonsense approach, tactical brilliance, and commitment to team-first basketball, Popovich helped shape not only the identity of the Spurs but also the broader culture of the modern NBA.
Coach Pop transitions to Spurs President of Basketball Operations pic.twitter.com/q8HwqDTB53
— San Antonio Spurs (@spurs) May 2, 2025
Popovich’s coaching journey began in 1996, when he took over as head coach following a front-office stint with the Spurs. Under his leadership, San Antonio became a model of consistency, discipline, and success. He led the team to five NBA titles (1999, 2003, 2005, 2007, and 2014), 22 consecutive playoff appearances, and over 1,300 regular season wins — third-most in NBA history. His ability to evolve with the game while staying true to core principles of teamwork and unselfish play earned him the admiration of players, peers, and fans alike.
“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,” Popovich said.
While Popovich will no longer be on the sidelines, he is not stepping away from basketball entirely. The Spurs announced that he will continue to serve as the team’s President of Basketball Operations, ensuring that his voice and vision will remain influential in shaping the next generation of Spurs talent. This transition mirrors a trend seen across professional sports, where legendary figures move into front-office roles to continue contributing their expertise behind the scenes.
The announcement comes at a pivotal time for the franchise, which has been undergoing a rebuilding phase centered around rising star Victor Wembanyama. Popovich played a key role in mentoring the young phenom during his rookie season and setting the foundation for a new chapter in Spurs history.
Throughout his career, Popovich earned a reputation not just for his basketball acumen, but also for his candid personality, dry wit, and outspoken views on social and political issues. He became a mentor and father figure to countless players, including NBA legends Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, and Manu Ginóbili — the trio that helped define the Spurs’ dynasty years.
Tributes poured in from around the league following the news. Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr, who played under Popovich and later served on his coaching staff with Team USA, called him “the greatest coach of all time and an even better human being.” NBA Commissioner Adam Silver praised Popovich’s “profound impact on the game and the people in it.”
While Popovich’s coaching legacy is cemented in Hall of Fame status, his influence will be felt far beyond the win column. From his development of international players to his pioneering of ball movement and defensive discipline, Popovich reshaped the way modern basketball is played.
As the NBA says farewell to one of its most iconic leaders on the court, fans and players alike are left with a profound sense of gratitude. Gregg Popovich didn’t just coach basketball — he elevated it.