Spurs honor Popovich legacy as young team chases next title run in 2026

The Spurs raised a quiet banner for Gregg Popovich in 2026, honoring his NBA-record 1,390 wins and five championships with a discreet ceremony.

Popovich's banner joins Spurs legends Tucked high in the rafters at Frost Bank Center, next to retired jerseys of Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili, and Tony Parker, hangs a unique banner celebrating Gregg Popovich. The banner reads "POP 1,390" above the Spurs logo and "Hall of Fame," with five stars symbolizing his five championships. The number reflects his NBA-record 1,390 regular-season victories as head coach. The Spurs quietly installed the banner in late October without any announcement, ceremony, or arena announcement. ## Popovich's presence shapes current team Popovich now serves as the team's president of basketball operations, often seen at the Victory Capital Performance Center after his morning rehab sessions. He works out under Duncan's supervision and typically sits alone in the background during team practices. Current players frequently approach him, with point guard Stephon Castle noting how valuable his experience is, especially during crucial games. Castle, who played five games for Popovich as a rookie, emphasized that Popovich has been through more than anyone else in the organization and can discuss anything beyond basketball. ## Popovich greets Wembanyama after pivotal loss After Victor Wembanyama was ejected in Game 4 of the Western Conference semifinals against Minnesota, Popovich waited at the airport for the 22-year-old French phenom upon his return to San Antonio. A local TV crew captured Popovich speaking with Wembanyama, who wore a black Nike sweatsuit and listened intently. Wembanyama later said Popovich may have wanted to make an impactful statement by being there. "I'm not going to leak anything he said, obviously," Wembanyama remarked after Game 5, adding that Popovich provides feedback regularly during games and series, with everyone always listening. ## Spurs one win away from Western Conference finals With a Game 6 victory on Friday night at 9:30 p.m. ET on Prime, the Spurs could advance to the Western Conference finals for the first time since Popovich led them there in 2017. Only one starter, De'Aaron Fox, has playoff experience, while seven of the ten rotation players are under 26 and making their playoff debuts. Despite their inexperience, the young team is learning from San Antonio legends like Popovich as they navigate the postseason. This group, led by coach Mitch Johnson and GM Brian Wright, is guided by the championship culture established by Popovich. ## Legends remain integral to Spurs culture At the practice facility, current players often interact with retired legends like Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili, Tony Parker, Bruce Bowen, David Robinson, and Sean Elliott. It's common to see Ginobili having lunch with Bowen, whose No. 12 jersey is retired, or Duncan making appearances alongside Robinson and Elliott. Rookie guard Dylan Harper shared his excitement about seeing Duncan, Popovich, and Ginobili during his first week in San Antonio, calling it a unique experience found nowhere else. The organization prides itself on connecting past and present members seamlessly. ## Popovich's wisdom shapes playoff preparation On the morning of Game 5, Popovich took part in the Spurs' film study session, while Ginobili, serving as a special adviser, walked with Harper through the halls. Harper later contributed 12 points and 10 rebounds in the team's 13th win this season by 25 points or more. Devin Vassell expressed his eagerness to speak with Popovich after a shootaround interview, highlighting Popovich's unparalleled insights. "To be able to sit here and tell you the experiences they've gone through or what he sees, that's second to none," Vassell said. ## Buford bridges past and future of Spurs R.C. Buford remains the only daily link between the Spurs' championship past and evolving present, having co-founded the "Spurs way" alongside Popovich. Now serving as CEO, Buford oversees the front office and supports the team's development. He previously identified Mitch Johnson during the 2016 draft and later brought GM Brian Wright from Detroit. Johnson acknowledged Buford's role in his career, stating, "The only reason either of us are here is because of R.C." Buford continues to assist the front office and coaching staff, ensuring the organization's resources guide current decisions. ## Johnson credits Popovich's support during transition Johnson took over as interim coach the same night Popovich suffered a stroke ahead of a matchup against Minnesota, the team they face in Game 6. He described leaning on the entire organization for support as crucial, saying, "Leaning on the organization from top to bottom.. it has made it where I've never felt isolated or alone." Johnson emphasized the confidence and guidance he received from Popovich and the front office, calling it one of Popovich's special qualities. He credited the collective support system for helping him navigate challenging moments. ## Spurs embrace 'Spurs way' under new leadership While Popovich established the "pound-the-rock" culture, the current Spurs aim to carry forward his legacy with Victor Wembanyama as their centerpiece. Keldon Johnson, who won NBA Sixth Man of the Year last month, recalled Popovich's tough but formative influence, saying, "To hear him say he's proud of me.. means the world to me." Johnson credited Popovich with helping him become a better professional and person, both on and off the court. He described Popovich's impact as something no one else could replicate at his age. ## Popovich's presence called a gift for organization Multiple sources within the organization describe Popovich's presence as "a gift," though Johnson and Wright are not trying to replicate Popovich's coaching style exactly. Johnson was encouraged by Popovich to remain himself throughout the journey, while Wright runs the front office differently than Buford. Buford acknowledged the "Spurs way" has evolved since his time alongside Popovich and expressed excitement for the next chapter. He said, "The ability to have Pop, Manu, Tim and David in the gym around the program.. is a real gift to us."