Popovich resigned as head coach and praised: US media pay tribute to the greatness, Wenban Yama wishes him all the best

On May 3, the Spurs officially announced that 76-year-old legendary coach Greg Popovich officially stepped down as Spurs head coach and transformed into a full-time position as Spurs president; Mickey Johnson will replace Popovich as Spurs head coach.

Regarding the resignation as Spurs head coach, Popovich himself stated: Although my love and passion for the game still exist, I decided it was time to resign as head coach. I am forever grateful to the great players, coaches, staff and fans who have allowed me to be the head coach of the Spurs and are delighted to have the opportunity to continue to support this team, community and city that has meant something to me.

In November 2024, Popovich suffered a minor stroke and had to leave the team indefinitely. Although the recovery was successful, considering age and other factors, the 76-year-old Popovich had to step down as head coach and stayed behind the scenes to continue playing for the Spurs.

NBA President Adam Xiao Hua stated: Popovich's continued success and outstanding achievements as the head coach of the San Antonio Spurs are unparalleled. He has won five NBA championships and is the most winning head coach in NBA history, and he has also won an Olympic gold medal, where he has made great contributions to developing players and coaches and has promoted the development of basketball around the world. Few people in the sports world are as respected and loved as he is. We thank his extraordinary leadership and dedication for the impact this sport and wish him all the best in his new position as Spurs.

Wenban Yama updated her social media, posted a photo and wrote: Coach, I think I can never finish saying thank you. Thank you for everything you have done for basketball and your impact on the game and the city of San Antonio; thank you for your wisdom, leadership, and the team culture you have built that has been part of your 29-year head coaching career, and I know that you will continue to inspire everyone around you in this new adventure.

In your next chapter, I just hope you are safe and happy, and love your Victor.

Heat official posted old photos of Popovich embracing Spoelstra, Wade and Adebayo, and wrote: Congratulations on creating a great coaching career and wishing you all the best in your new career.

Clippers player Batum said: Legend, thank you Bobo.

US media posted a poster to pay tribute and wrote: The greatest head coach we have ever seen; "Open-Air Stand" wrote: Bobo Goat, 5 championships, 3-time coach of the year, entered the playoffs in 26 years (22 consecutive years), and the head coach with the most winning games in NBA history (1,422 wins in the regular season).

SportsCenter posted a photo and wrote: The end of an era, the five-time champion, the coach with the most winning games in NBA history, and the coach Bobo's coaching career is too brilliant.