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Farewell to a Legend: Gregg Popovich Steps Down, Leaving a Lasting Impact on the NBA

Get ready for a shakeup in the NBA folks, because legend Gregg Popovich has hung up his coaching hat after a mind-blowing 30-year run with the San Antonio Spurs. Yes, you heard that right, Pop's done coaching, but he ain't done contributing to the team, just take a seat as the team's president.

Pop's not exactly retiring, he's stepping aside. In an emotional statement, he shared, "My love and passion for the game stay intact, but it's time to pass the torch." Assistant coach Mitch Johnson will now take the helm as head coach.

Pop suffered a stroke back in November 2024, sidelining him for the majority of the season. He's battled through it, working tirelessly on his rehab, but it appears his health is now a priority.

Pop's final tally? A record-breaking 1,422 regular-season victories and 170 playoff wins - third most in NBA history. He also took home 170 coaches of the year awards during his tenure. And yes, he won five NBA championships with the Spurs. The man's a machine!

Manu Ginobili, one of Pop's star players, doesn't mince words when he calls Pop the "best there ever was." Chris Paul, who joined the Spurs this season, was impressed by Pop's dedication, stating, "Pop's work ethic is incredible. It's inspiring to witness first-hand."

Pop took over as coach on December 10, 1996, when he fired Bob Hill and promoted himself. The Spurs were struggling at the time, with a record of 3-15, but Pop turned things around. The Spurs went on to become a powerhouse, winning multiple NBA championships and establishing a culture known as the "Spurs Way."

Pop's coaching style was unique, filled with a mix of grumpy grace and clashes with reporters. But beneath that gruff exterior, he had a soft side. He quietly championed causes, like the San Antonio Food Bank, and wasn't afraid to voice his political views. Those who knew him well found him hilarious and admired his sense of humor.

His decision to step aside comes as the Spurs are in the midst of a rebuild, focusing on French star Victor Wembanyama, the next potential San Antonio great. The NBA community is thankful for Pop's contributions, with Commissioner Adam Silver stating, "Coach Pop's impact on basketball is profound."

Pop's journey started at the U.S. Air Force Academy, where he was known for his toughness and intellect. He wasn't picked for the 1972 Olympic team but went on to coach Pomona-Pitzer, a Division III program in California, and later transitioned to the NBA. He coached the Spurs for 29 years, a tenure nearly unmatched in U.S. major pro sports history.

Pop was the first coach to hire a female assistant, Becky Hammon, paving the way for women in the NBA coaching world.да

Pop's legacy is solidified. His commitment to the Spurs, his leadership, and his dedication to the game have made him one of the greatest coaches in NBA history. His impact on the game, the players he's coached, and the Spurs franchise will be felt for years to come. So, here's to you, Coach Pop - we'll miss you on the sidelines, but we know you'll continue to shape the future of basketball.

Sources:

[1] NBA.com

[2] ESPN

[3] Yahoo Sports

[4] CBS Sports

Gregg Popovich, a legend in the NBA, has stepped down as coach of the San Antonio Spurs after an impressive 30-year run, leaving behind a lasting impact on the league.
Despite stepping aside, Popovich won't be retiring, taking on the role of team president instead.
During the 2024 season, Popovich suffered a stroke, causing him to miss the majority of the season, but he continued to work tirelessly on his rehab.
Popovich leaves behind a remarkable legacy, having secured 1,422 regular-season victories, 170 playoff wins, and five NBA championships.
Manu Ginobili and Chris Paul, two of Popovich's star players, praised his coaching skills and work ethic.
Popovich took over as coach of the Spurs in December 1996, turning a struggling team into a powerhouse and establishing the "Spurs Way."
A unique coach known for his mix of grumpy grace and clashes with reporters, Popovich was also an advocate for various causes and a vocal political voice, earning admiration for his sense of humor and soft side.