Greg Popovich left coaching in the 2024-25 season, as Mitch Johnson took over. San Antonio Spurs superstar Victor Wenbagnama still appreciates Popovich’s inspiration.
Victor Wembanyama has only played two seasons in the NBA, but he is already one of the best in the league. He is in the right situation with the San Antonio Spurs, where he is a clear star. This was Greg Popovich’s long-term plan, but he was unable to continue as head coach.
Health issues were on the sidelines for most of the 2024-25 season, with Mitch Johnson taking up work. The Spurs still have Popovich as front office executives, but Johnson is now their permanent coach. However, Popovich still affects the rest of the team.
Wenbanyama spoke about their close relationship with his former head coach. He has the same leadership as Tim Duncan and David Robinson, so it should have good signs for the long-term future.
Wenbanyama only played one season under Popovich, but the coach had a major impact on him. The young Spurs players know that Popovich plays a major role in their careers.
Wenbanyama shared his gratitude to Popovich on the “The Shop” panel at Fanatics Fest. The panel included LeBron James and NFL legend Tom Brady. They first focused on the Frenchman’s visit to China, but he confirmed to praise the former coach.
“First of all, we were all really close. We all have a really good relationship between our teammates and him. Whenever something like this happens it’s sad and shocking,” Wenbagnama told the panel.
“What’s incredible for him is that he continues to give hope and is the person he has.
“He continues to inspire us. Because of 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 won it for his success and for more than 20 years. On top of that, he won the gold medal after leading Team USA at the 2020 Olympics.
On the outside, Popovich may look gross, but his players will say they are not. He was passionate and intelligent in his coaching days. Some people have failed to appreciate it, but he is now getting the award.
His legacy is still alive with his almost never-ending coaching tree and players like Wenbanyama. Popovich has achieved legendary status and is recommended to be the best coach of the NBA’s history.
He’s also very influenced by the Spurs at age 76. Johnson will continue to implement key values as the Spurs look to be returning for the postseason. They have a transcendent superstar to Wenbañama and a good supporting cast around him.
They are in a good place because of the impact he has on the team. As the Spurs appear to compete for the championship, Wenbanyama continues to show off Popovich’s influence. It may not happen in the 2025-26 season, but it could become a first-team.