The San Antonio Spurs wrapped up a transitional 2024–25 NBA season that, while underwhelming in the win column, served primarily as a developmental campaign centered around rookie phenom Victor Wembanyama. One of the season’s most emotional storylines came with the official retirement of legendary head coach Gregg Popovich, who steps away after nearly three decades at the helm.
Wembanyama, the 7-foot-4 cornerstone of the franchise’s rebuild, took to social media to honor his coach with a heartfelt message following the announcement.
“29 years. Coach, thank you for your wisdom, for your leadership, for the culture you created… but most importantly for being a great and inspiring person,” Wembanyama posted on X (formerly Twitter). “It was an honor to be a part of those 29 years. Wishing you the best on your new chapter,” he added, closing the message with a goat emoji.
Popovich, 76, leaves behind a legacy unmatched in NBA history. His 1,422 regular-season wins are the most all-time, and he guided the Spurs to five NBA championships while establishing a culture of sustained excellence that became the envy of the league.
Victor Wembanyama #1 of the San Antonio Spurs is consoled by head coach Gregg Popovich of the San Antonio Spurs during a game against the Denver Nuggets in the first half at Moody Center on March 15, 2024 in Austin, Texas.
What’s next for the Spurs?
According to Shams Charania of The Athletic, the Spurs have promoted Mitch Johnson to head coach following Popovich’s retirement. Johnson has been with the organization since 2016, first serving as an assistant for the G League’s Austin Spurs before joining San Antonio’s bench in 2019. He also filled in as interim head coach during Popovich’s absences, earning the trust of the locker room and front office.
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Johnson’s promotion ensures continuity for a young core led by Wembanyama and newly acquired star De’Aaron Fox. Both players have built a strong rapport with Johnson, and his elevation means they won’t need to adjust to a new system—an advantage as the team looks to accelerate its growth.
While other franchises like the Denver Nuggets pivot to new eras, the Spurs are doubling down on internal development and long-term planning.
A bright future in San Antonio
With Wembanyama anchoring the frontcourt, Fox providing veteran leadership and dynamic playmaking, and rookie standout Stephon Castle emerging as a legitimate contributor, the Spurs boast one of the NBA’s most intriguing young trios. If they can stay healthy and maximize their potential, San Antonio may soon return to contender status sooner than expected.
