Legendary San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich announced his retirement on Friday after five NBA championships, a Basketball Hall-of-Fame nod, and more wins than any coach in the history of the league.
Popovich, now 76 years old, will stay with the Spurs in a front office capacity, content to retire with 1,422 wins to his name.
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The announcement brought out a wide range of emotions in NBA fans on X as they thanked the man known as ‘Coach Pop’ for his service to the Spurs franchise and the league as a whole.
Gregg Popovich speaks with Keldon Johnson of the Spurs. © Rob Gray-Imagn Images
“GREAT CAREER GOAT,” one fan said upon hearing the news.
“LEGENDARY CAREER,” another fan said, sharing a classic picture of Popovich after an NBA title.
“Sad day for Spurs fans and NBA fans BUT it’s much needed in order to prioritize his health and well being,” another fan added with five gold Larry O’Brien trophy emojis.
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“What a coaching career Pop.”
“I’m going to take a random guess and say Michael Malone is the next coach of the Spurs,” another fan said in response to the retirement announcement about the former Nuggets head coach.
The Spurs will now move on with a young core featuring Victor Wembanyama, Rookie of the Year Stephon Castle, D’Aaron Fox and other key pieces as they look to recapture their championship glory.
Popovich won’t be on the sidelines barking out instructions, but he will have a hand in what happens next with the Spurs going forward.
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“Heartbreaking,” one fan added.
“Pop is on the Mount Rushmore of greatest basketball minds to ever exist.
“Glad the Spurs are thrilled to keep him on board.”
Related: NBA Rookie of the Year Praises San Antonio Spurs Front Office