Gregg Popovich has stepped away from coaching in the 2024-25 season, as Mitch Johnson has taken over. Victor Wembanyama, the San Antonio Spurs’ superstar, still appreciates Popovich’s inspiration.
Victor Wembanyama has only played in the NBA for two seasons, but he is already one of the league’s best. He is in the right situation with the San Antonio Spurs, where he is the clear star. This was Gregg Popovich’s long-term plan, but he was unable to continue as the head coach.
Health issues sidelined him for most of the 2024-25 season, leading to Mitch Johnson getting the job. The Spurs still have Popovich as their front office executive, but Johnson is now their permanent coach. However, Popovich still has an impact on the rest of the team.
Wembanyama has spoken about his former head coach and their close relationship. That should bode well for the long-term future because he has the same mentor as Tim Duncan and David Robinson.
While Wembanyama only played one season under Popovich, the coach had a profound impact on him. The Spurs’ young players know Popovich played a big role in their careers, a lesson they will carry with them.
Wembanyama shared his appreciation for Popovich in “The Shop” panel at Fanatics Fest. This panel included LeBron James and NFL legend Tom Brady. They first focused on the Frenchman’s visit to China, but he made sure to praise his former coach.
“First of all, the person. We were all really close. We all have really good relationships between the teammates and him. It’s always sad and shocking when something like this happens,” Wembanyama said in the panel.
“What’s incredible with him is that he keeps giving hope, being the person that he is.
“He keeps inspiring us. Because the way he works, he works harder than most athletes in the world.”
He is still involved in the NBA due to his front office role, but Popovich is already a legendary coach. The five-time champion earned that with his success and by maintaining it for over two decades. On top of that, he also has the gold medal after leading Team USA in the 2020 Olympics.
On the outside, Popovich may seem grumpy, but his players would say otherwise. He was passionate and intelligent during his coaching days. Some people failed to appreciate that, but he is getting the plaudits now.
His legacy is still alive with his near-endless coaching tree and players like Wembanyama. Popovich has earned legendary status, and he has a good case for being the NBA’s greatest-ever coach.
He will still be quite impactful for the Spurs even at 76. Johnson will continue to implement the key values as the Spurs look to return to the postseason. They have a transcendent superstar in Wembanyama and a good supporting cast around him.
With the influence he has on the team, they are in a good spot. Wembanyama will keep showcasing the Popovich influence, as the Spurs look to compete for championships. It might not happen in the 2025-26 season, but the potential is there to become a top team.
