Spurs Make Gregg Popovich Decision Amid NBA Season

In a move befitting of a franchise legend, the Spurs recently made a gesture to honor Popovich’s unparalleled impact: raising a Popovich banner at the Frost Bank Center, with his regular season-win record inscribed on it.

But the gesture was made without a ceremony or prior announcement. Per ESPN’s Michael Wright, this was because Popovich did not “let the Spurs do a ceremony honoring his contributions to the franchise and the city of San Antonio.”

Ahead of Sunday’s matchup against the Brooklyn Nets, however, the Spurs took to social media to celebrate the iconic coach once again, posting a photo of Popovich’s jersey alongside other franchise greats.

“Legends,” the team captioned the post.

The timing follows his transition from head coach to President of Basketball Operations, a shift prompted by health concerns, including a mild stroke in November 2024. Though he no longer patrols the sideline, Popovich continues to shape the organization from the front office, ensuring that his principles still guide the team’s direction.

Popovich’s most successful stretch came during the Duncan era, from 1999 through 2014, when the Spurs won titles in 1999, 2003, 2005, 2007, and 2014. Alongside Duncan, Manu Ginobili, Tony Parker, Kawhi Leonard, and later rising star Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio became synonymous with sustained excellence — 22 straight playoff appearances and a reputation for selfless, intelligent basketball. His mentorship extended beyond players, influencing several current NBA coaches who once served under him, spreading the Spurs’ culture league-wide.

Now, under new head coach Mitch Johnson, San Antonio is writing its next chapter. The team has started the 2025–26 season 2-0, led by Wembanyama and a renewed focus on defense and ball movement that mirrors Popovich’s philosophy. Even as he steps back, Popovich’s presence is felt everywhere — in the organization’s values, in the rafters where his jersey now hangs, and in the enduring culture he built. The Spurs may have turned a page, but their story still reads in Popovich’s ink.

San Antonio returns to action at home against Brooklyn, seeking to make it three straight wins. Tip-off is set for 2pm ET.