San Antonio Spurs icon Tony Parker took inspiration from the legendary Gregg Popovich when he decided to pursue the next chapter of his career, coaching. According to the four-time champion, Pop has been in his ear about coaching since he showed interest in the profession, to the point that the former Spurs point guard was invited to observe the team over the course of last season.
“I asked him for advice, and the Spurs opened the doors to me in January, February, and March, where I was able to observe everything over seven or ten days,” said Parker in a chat with L’equipe. “When I stepped onto the court, it reminded me of my basketball camps when I was in Fécamp. Last October, after my first discussion with [Gregg Popovich], I felt this strong desire.”
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Parker needs to complete a course
While Parker already has the credentials to be considered for an NBA coaching job, he’s taking the longer route by applying for a “Diplome d’Entraineur Sportfi”, which is a french coaching diploma that will allow the Hall of Famer to coach any basketball club around the world. Attaining a high-level degree isn’t needed in the NBA, but for Parker, earning it gives him a chance to further develop his knowledge and experience in coaching.
“Then, I had a long discussion with Zizou [Zinédine Zidane] and Titi [Thierry Henry], who convinced me to do the DES. Because in itself, I don’t need it to coach in the NBA. My dream is to coach in the NBA. But I said to myself, ‘Why not go back to school?’ This year, I’m going to take the DES. I hope I’ll pass it in May, and then start a coaching career,” added Parker.
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While the six-time All-Star said his dream is to coach in the NBA one day, he’s not closing his doors on doing so in the international scene. By the time TP completes his course next year, he’s also going to look into opportunities outside of America, such as NBA Europe, FIBA or even in France which has a strong and rising national team. The 43-year-old is keeping an open mind as he transitions to the next chapter of his basketball career.
Where Popovich’s mentorship comes in
One of the reasons why Parker is pursuing coaching is that he is a witness to how one’s leadership changed the trajectory of his life forever, which is something he wants to do for the next generation of basketball players.
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During his playing years and until this very day, Parker has had a father-son relationship with Pop and that’s what helped him not only make a name for himself but push him to be the best version of himself on and off the court — even if it had to take tough love to get there. It’s only right that the French native once again leans on the mentorship of his former coach in pursuit of the next chapter of his career.
That’s not to say that Parker plans to be the next Gregg Popovich but more so contribute to the game in the best way he can at this point of his life, which he can now do best on the sidelines.
This story was originally reported by Basketball Network on Aug 22, 2025, where it first appeared in the Latest News section. Add Basketball Network as a Preferred Source by clicking here.