**Gregg Popovich Steps Down After Historic Tenure with Spurs**
In a monumental shift within the world of basketball, Gregg Popovich, the esteemed head coach of the San Antonio Spurs, has officially stepped down after an impressive tenure that spanned 29 years. This decision, announced by the team on a recent Friday, marks the end of an era for both Popovich and the Spurs organization. At the age of 76, Popovich transitions into a new role as president of basketball operations where his experience and insight will continue to influence the franchise in a different capacity.
During his remarkable career with the Spurs, which dates back to 1996, Popovich amassed an astounding 1,422 regular-season victories, setting an NBA record for the most wins by any head coach. His coaching legacy is further cemented by leading the Spurs to five NBA championships, the most recent title won in 2014. This prolific achievement not only highlights his coaching acumen but also solidifies his position as one of the greatest coaches in the history of the sport.
Reflecting on his illustrious career, Popovich expressed deep gratitude to everyone involved in the Spurs’ journey. “While my love and passion for the game remain, I’ve decided it’s time to step away as head coach,” he stated. He emphasized his gratitude towards the players, coaches, staff, and fans for their unwavering support throughout his storied career. With a new role on the horizon, he looks forward to continuing his support for the organization and the community that have played such a significant role in his life.
Popovich’s resignation comes following a challenging period for him personally. He has been absent from coaching duties since suffering a mild stroke last November, which occurred just before a home game against the Minnesota Timberwolves. The Spurs struggled in his absence, failing to make the playoffs for the 2025 season and experiencing a disappointing regular-season record of 34 wins and 48 losses. This marked the first time since 2019 that the team sat out of playoff contention, signaling a pressing need for change.
Having been a part of the Spurs fabric since he joined the team in 1988 as an assistant coach, Popovich possessed a profound link to the organization. His leadership as head coach began in 1996, and during those years, he not only became the longest-serving head coach in any major US sport but also a highly respected figure in basketball worldwide. As he moves on, the title of the longest-serving NBA coach now goes to Erik Spoelstra of the Miami Heat, who has been leading the team since the 2008-09 season.
Further emphasizing his exceptional coaching career, Popovich also achieved remarkable success on the international stage. He led the U.S. men’s basketball team to a gold medal victory at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, showcasing his ability to bring out the best in players at all levels. His induction into the Basketball Hall of Fame as a coach in 2023 only reinforces his status as a transformative figure in the sport.
As the Spurs continue to navigate the transition period following Popovich’s departure, there is palpable anticipation regarding how his legacy will shape the organization’s future. The San Antonio Spurs, a franchise renowned for its success and stability, now faces a crucial moment in its history without the guidance of its legendary coach. With Popovich stepping into a new strategic role, and the team looking to rebuild, both fans and analysts eagerly await to see how this shift impacts the Spurs in the coming seasons.
In conclusion, while Gregg Popovich’s departure as head coach marks the end of an extraordinary chapter, his influence endures, ensuring that the values he instilled in the franchise will resonate for generations to come.