When the conversation turns to the greatest coaches in NBA history, Gregg Popovich’s name is never far from the top. With over two decades at the helm of the San Antonio Spurs, five NBA championships, and a coaching philosophy rooted in discipline, adaptability, and player empowerment, Popovich has built a legacy that few can match.
Popovich, often simply referred to as “Pop,” took over the Spurs in 1996 and quickly transformed the franchise into a model of consistency and excellence. Under his leadership, the Spurs became synonymous with winning, posting 22 consecutive playoff appearances from 1998 to 2019—a record of sustained success unmatched in modern American sports. During that span, Popovich helped shape Hall of Fame careers for players like Tim Duncan, Manu Ginóbili, and Tony Parker, forming one of the most selfless and effective trios in league history.
But Popovich’s greatness goes far beyond the number of wins or titles. His ability to adapt across eras—whether dominating the early 2000s with a slow-paced, defense-first approach or shifting to a more fluid, ball-movement-heavy offense in the 2010s—demonstrates a basketball mind that never stands still. His 2014 Spurs team, which dismantled the Miami Heat’s Big Three in the NBA Finals, is still celebrated for playing some of the most beautiful and unselfish basketball ever seen.
Players who have passed through Popovich’s system often speak highly of the culture he cultivates—one built on accountability, humility, and mutual respect. He demands excellence, but he also prioritizes the human element. Pop is known for developing not just better players, but better people. He challenges players intellectually, often engaging in conversations about politics, world events, and social issues. He cares deeply about what happens off the court as much as on it.
That emotional intelligence has also made Popovich a beloved mentor. Numerous former assistants have gone on to become head coaches themselves, including Mike Budenholzer, Ime Udoka, Monty Williams, and Becky Hammon, who made history under Pop as the NBA’s first full-time female assistant coach. His coaching tree rivals any in league history.
Popovich’s accolades speak volumes. He became the NBA’s all-time winningest coach in 2022, surpassing Don Nelson’s record for career wins. He’s been named NBA Coach of the Year three times and was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2023. He’s also made a mark internationally, guiding Team USA to a gold medal at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics.
Even in his later years, with the Spurs entering a new era led by young phenom Victor Wembanyama, Popovich remains passionate and sharp. Rather than retire after decades of success, he signed a contract extension in 2023, signaling his commitment to building the next great Spurs chapter.
In a league where longevity is rare and reinvention is vital, Gregg Popovich stands as a towering figure. A master strategist, a relentless competitor, and a deeply principled leader, Pop’s impact on the game is both immense and enduring.
There’s no doubt—Gregg Popovich is one of the greatest coaches in NBA history.
