The San Antonio Spurs announced that longtime head coach Gregg Popovich would be stepping away, transitioning over to being the full-time Team President. This move came after Popovich suffered a stroke last year and another health scare recently.
More news: Gregg Popovich Steps Down as Coach, Moves to New Role With Spurs
Shortly after news dropped about him stepping away, the veteran released a heartfelt statement on the matter.
“While my love and passion for the game remain, I’ve decided it’s time to step away as head coach,” said Popovich. “I’m forever grateful to the wonderful players, coaches, staff and fans who allowed me to serve them as the Spurs head coach and am excited for the opportunity to continue to support the organization, community and city that are so meaningful to me.”
Photo by Sam Hodde/Getty Images
Spurs managing partner Peter J. Holt also released a statement on the news about Popovich.
“Coach Pop’s extraordinary impact on our family, San Antonio, the Spurs and the game of basketball is profound,” said Spurs Managing Partner Peter J. Holt. “His accolades and awards don’t do justice to the impact he has had on so many people. He is truly one-of-one as a person, leader and coach. Our entire family, alongside fans from across the globe, are grateful for his remarkable 29-year run as the head coach of the San Antonio Spurs.”
Popovich is one of the better coaches in NBA history, having won five titles over his career. His first championship came in 1998-99 as the Spurs took down the New York Knicks.
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San Antonio also won titles in 2003, 2005, 2007, and 2014, cementing his status around the league. The Spurs were seen as one of the new age dynasties across the NBA, with Popovich helping to lead the charge.
Players such as Tim Duncan, Kawhi Leonard, David Robinson, Tony Parker, and others all came through the organization. Popovich helped each one of them build a career, and many have thanked him for his influence.
The impact of Popovich on the Spurs organization is paramount, and the franchise likely wouldn’t be the same without him. His vision to build a sustainable winner was rare, and the league will miss having him on the sidelines.
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