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NBA Reacts to Gregg Popovich's Big Announcement

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated May 5, 2025 5:35 PM ET

The basketball world was left saddened by the news that Gregg Popovich had decided to resign as the San Antonio Spurs head coach following an iconic 22-year reign, which included no less than five NBA championships.

Popovich, 76, has been away from the team following a major health scare several months ago. The legendary shot-caller suffered a mild stroke on Nov. 2, which had him sidelined for the remainder of the season.

The good news, however, is that Popovich won't be out of the picture for the Spurs at all. In fact, the team announced on Friday that upon his resignation as the team's head coach, Popovich will now transition to the organization's president of basketball operations.

The Spurs officially unveiled Popovich in his new role on Monday via an introductory press conference. Alongside two Spurs legends in Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobili, Popovich announced that he is no longer Coach Pop and that he will now be known as "El Jefe," which means "The Boss" in Spanish.

The NBA just had to react to the big news.

"New role, same Pop " the NBA posted on X.

New role, same Pop https://t.co/K7URyyQP7n
— NBA (@NBA) May 5, 2025

The NBA shared photos and a video of Popovich's dramatic announcement. It involved the Spurs icon removing his jacket -- with the help of two Hall of Fame Players whom he coached to a combined nine championships -- which unveiled his new "El Jefe" title.

Popovich also took the opportunity to thank the Spurs organization not only for this promotion but for all the support he's received during his health crisis.

“I can never express the gratitude that I have for so many people caring about the organization and sending me thoughts and prayers, that sort of thing, since I had this stroke,” Popovich said.

Popovich will now be ushering in a new era in San Antonio -- one that will be centered around none other than 21-year-old phenom Victor Wembanyama.

Things are looking very promising for this iconic franchise.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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