San Antonio Raises Gregg Popovich Flag to Commemorate Career
The San Antonio Spurs raised the flag into the rafters of the Frost Bank Center in honor Gregg Popovichthe legendary head coach who led the franchise to five NBA championships and became the winningest coach in league history. The moment symbolized permanent connection between Popovićhis players and the city that has embraced his demanding but sincere leadership for nearly three decades.
Popović resigned as head coach earlier this year after suffering a mild stroke in November 2024. Although he no longer patrols the sidelines, his imprint remains on everything Spurs do. His successor, Mitch Johnson, continues to carry on the culture Popovich built, defined by accountability, selflessness and relentless defense.
The Spurs are still embracing the Gregg Popovich mentality
Through two games this season, the Spurs have posted the league’s best defensive rating, an early reflection of the values Popovic has instilled. Rookie sensation Victor Vembanyamawho called the defense “non-negotiable,” has come to embody the philosophy Popovich has espoused throughout his career. Johnson has a team that moves in sync, contests shots and rebounds with urgency, reminiscent of the championship years led by Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili and Tony Parker.
Popovic has shown up for practice in recent weeks, looking healthier and offering quiet guidance to the players. His presence instilled confidence in the young team.
“It always puts a smile on my face when I see him here,” Keldon Johnson said. “He brings that energy. Everyone trusts Mitch, but Dad’s still with us.”
From 1996 to 2024, Popovich led the Spurs to 22 straight playoff appearances, five titles and more than 1,400 regular season wins. He also led Team USA to Olympic gold in 2021. His tenure transformed the Spurs into a model organization built on discipline, humility and team-first basketball.
2025-10-26 17:09:00
