The San Antonio Spurs’ remarkable run to the NBA Finals has been shaped not only by their young roster, but also by the continued presence of Gregg Popovich, who remains a guiding force around the team after stepping down as head coach. San Antonio, led by head coach Mitch Johnson, overcame an early setback in the Western Conference finals against Oklahoma City after losing Game 3 at home. Following that defeat, the Spurs held a closed-door team meeting that included front-office staff and trainers, and Popovich entered to deliver a blunt message: “That’s BS. That’s not how we play basketball,” according to guard De’Aaron Fox.
The Spurs responded by defeating the Thunder in seven games to reach the NBA Finals for the first time since 2014. Their rise has surprised many because the team is built around a young core featuring Victor Wembanyama, Stephon Castle and Dylan Harper, all in their early 20s. Johnson, at 39, is in only his first full season as head coach, but the franchise’s leadership structure still reflects Popovich’s influence. He remains closely involved, attending practices, sitting in on film sessions, offering advice and sending text messages after games. Wembanyama said recently that when Popovich speaks, “everybody listens.”
Popovich’s legacy gives his words exceptional weight. He coached the Spurs from 1998 to 2014 during a dominant era that produced five championships and Hall of Fame careers for Tim Duncan, David Robinson, Manu Ginóbili and Tony Parker. Known for his discipline, detail-oriented approach and ability to connect with players, Popovich built one of the NBA’s most respected cultures. His role changed after he suffered a stroke in November 2024, prompting Johnson to assume interim duties before being named full-time coach in May 2025.
At that presentation, Popovich appeared publicly for one of the first times since the stroke, helped to the lectern by Duncan and Ginóbili. He said he was improving but that stepping aside was necessary for the future of the team. He also joked that he was no longer coach but “El Jefe,” or “The Boss,” signaling that he would still be involved behind the scenes.
Throughout the season, Popovich has helped guide the Spurs through difficult moments. After Wembanyama was ejected in a playoff game in Minnesota, Popovich met him at the airport. After a poor performance by Harper in a loss to Oklahoma City, Popovich sent a text urging him to get the job done, and Harper responded with a strong performance in the next two games. Popovich also texted Wembanyama after a bad shooting night in the NBA Finals, reminding him he is better than that result.
The Spurs finished the regular season 62-20, earning the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference after six straight losing seasons. But their playoff run has tested their composure and maturity. As they prepare for Game 3 of the Finals in New York after losing the first two games at home to the Knicks, Popovich continues pushing the same lesson he has emphasized for years: stay even-keeled, stay humble, and keep working.
