By Eurohoops team/ info@eurohoops.net
Last season the talks about Gregg Popovich were hinting at retirement. This summer, after the Spurs drafted Victor Wembanyama, the opposite happened.
The Spurs announced that they have signed a five-year contract with their 74-years old coach who will remain in his position almost until his 80 years of age.
And per Adrian Wojnarowski, his new contract is worth more than $80M.
Popovich is best known for his long and successful tenure as the head coach of the San Antonio Spurs, one of the most successful franchises in NBA history. He took over as the head coach of the Spurs in 1996 and remained in that position until his retirement in 2021. During his tenure, Popovich led the team to five NBA championships in 1999, 2003, 2005, 2007, and 2014, making the Spurs one of the most dominant teams of the 2000s.
Popovich’s coaching style was characterized by his emphasis on team-oriented basketball, strong defense, and player development. He was known for his ability to build cohesive and disciplined teams that consistently performed at a high level. Under his guidance, the Spurs became known for their unselfish play, ball movement, and emphasis on fundamentals.
In addition to his success with the Spurs, Popovich also had an impact on the international stage. He served as the head coach of the United States men’s national basketball team from 2017 to 2021, winning a gold medal at the 2020 Olympics.
Popovich is highly regarded within the basketball community for his coaching acumen, basketball IQ, and leadership skills. He is known for his direct and straightforward demeanor during interviews and press conferences, often providing thoughtful and insightful responses.
Beyond basketball, Popovich is also known for his activism and willingness to speak out on social and political issues. He has been an outspoken critic of various policies and actions, advocating for social justice and equality.
Overall, Gregg Popovich’s legacy extends far beyond his coaching accomplishments. He is widely respected as one of the greatest coaches in NBA history and has left an indelible mark on the game of basketball.