Spurs' playoff run propels Sean Sweeney to head-coaching opportunity with Magic

On the heels of a big win in Game 6 and in front of Game 7 of the Western Conference Finals, the San Antonio Spurs learned news that will impact the future of their franchise no matter what happens on Saturday night. 

According to a report by ESPN's Shams Charania, Spurs assistant coach Sean Sweeney will leave his post at the conclusion of the playoffs and take over as the next leader of the Orlando Magic. 

Sean Sweeney beat out two veteran coaches for Orlando Magic job 

According to Charania, the Magic have decided to go with Sweeney, 41, who will be a first-time head coach, over finalists Jeff Van Gundy and Billy Donovan. Ironically, Donovan almost coached the Magic nearly 20 years ago. 

While the Spurs are still built to contend for years to come with Victor Wembanyama, Sweeney did elevate San Antonio's defense during his lone season on the staff. Sweeney's tactics are credited with helping Wembanyama take his game to another level, culminating in being named Defensive Player of the Year.

Sweeney's addition played a role in the Spurs going from winning only 32 games in 2024-25 to 62 this regular season.