THOUGHTS | GREGG POPOVICH OFFICIALLY OUT AS SPURS COACH

Gregg Popovich is officially stepping down as head coach of the San Antonio Spurs to focus full-time on his role as Team President.

And honestly?

That’s totally fine.

After becoming the winningest coach in NBA history—with five championships and three Coach of the Year awards—Pop has more than earned a break from the grind. His coaching peers like Phil Jackson, George Karl, Don Nelson, Larry Brown, and Pat Riley have all stepped away, so it’s not like he’s breaking new ground here.

Besides, returning to the sidelines wouldn’t be a walk in the park, especially with Victor Wembanyama’s future still up in the air. Sure, Wemby is expected to rejoin the lineup, but with the lingering concerns over his blood clot, there’s a real chance he won’t be a key part of the team’s immediate plans. Pop will probably still find a way to be around—like a dad trying to sneak into his kid’s mobile gaming clan—but at some point, he’s bound to enjoy a life without the constant stress of coaching.

Truth is, he might have already come to terms with that. His decision comes after a six-month absence following the stroke he suffered last November. Now 76 years old, Pop may have realized that stepping back—especially amid Wemby's uncertainty—was the best move.

So yes, let the man enjoy this new chapter. Hopefully, the front office role isn’t as intense. Either way, his legacy as one of the greatest coaches in NBA history is already set in stone.