As the San Antonio Spurs played their home opener of the 2025-26 season on Sunday, Oct. 26, fans noticed some new decor in Frost Bank Center: a banner honoring former head coach Gregg Popovich as the winningest coach in NBA history.
There was no ceremony, no fanfare, no announcement. It truly honored the legacy that Popovich left behind.
Popovich still works within the Spurs’ organization, taking on the President of Basketball Operations role in May of this year. However, his greatness came courtside, coaching the Spurs to five NBA championships. His name is now hung alongside many of his best players, including Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili, and Tony Parker.
Gregg Popovich career accolades
Popovich coached the Spurs for 29 seasons, amassing an NBA-record 1,390 regular season wins. That 1,390 figure is honored on Popovich’s banner.
Popovich won five championships with the Spurs and boasted an impressive 170-114 record in the playoffs as well.
He is still held in high esteem by players and coaches across the league and was a media darling, earning Coach of the Year honors on three occasions (2003, 2012, 2014).
Spurs 2025-26 record
The Spurs have opened the 2025-26 season with a two-game winning streak. At the time of writing this, they also have a large halftime lead over the Brooklyn Nets in their home opener.
Statements from Spurs head coach Mitch Johnson
Mitch Johnson has enormous shoes to fill in San Antonio. He expressed gratitude toward Popovich before Sunday’s game, stating ‘I’ve been blessed to have [Popovich’s leadership] now for years in a lot of different roles.’ He continued, ‘[Popovich has] been that for so many people in so many moments and times and situations. It’s one of his special powers for sure.’