Miami Heat team president Pat Riley looks on during the first half of a game against the San Antonio Spurs at FTX Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jim Rassol-Imagn Images Jim Rassol-Imagn Images

Miami Heat's Pat Riley Sends Heartfelt Message to Gregg Popovich

Originally posted on San Antonio Spurs on SI
By Farbod Esnaashari | Last updated May 11, 2025 8:50 PM ET

The San Antonio Spurs officially entered a new era this offseason as head coach Gregg Popovich stepped down after 29 seasons.

It was a moment that saw everyone send heartfelt messages to Popovich, regardless of what team they're on. Among those who sent well-wishes to Popovich was Miami Heat president Pat Riley

“When you talk about Pop, I've reached out to him, I love him dearly,” Riley said. “And I wish him nothing but the best. He'll be a great president. He's loved not only in San Antonio, but throughout the league, by players, and that's very unique…I wish nothing but the best for Pop.”

Pat Riley on a possible succession plan, including if Erik Spoelstra were to move upstairs in the team. Riley would say he feels great and Spo will be fine, needs time to “decompress” after this season.

Also spoke about Gregg Popovich. #HeatNation pic.twitter.com/GJAgLUDuHm
— Zachary Weinberger (@ZachWeinberger) May 9, 2025

It's unfortunate that Victor Wembanyama won't be able to be coached by Gregg Popovich in a way that Tim Duncan, David Robinson, Tony Parker, and Kawhi Leonard all were for the majority of their careers. He'll still have Popovich involved in his career as one of the team presidents, but no longer as a coach.

Victor Wembanyama leads the NBA in blocks this season, despite not playing for the past three months pic.twitter.com/W22oGByfwt
— BasketNews (@BasketNews_com) May 11, 2025

While the San Antonio Spurs were a fun team to watch this season, there will be far more expectations on the team for the 2025-26 NBA season. After acquiring De'Aaron Fox, the team will likely get another star player to team up with Victor Wembanyama. With that in mind, it'll be time for the San Antonio Spurs to make a legitimate playoff push.

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This article first appeared on San Antonio Spurs on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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