Spurs raise discreet banner saluting Popovich’s 1,390 wins
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SAN ANTONIO — Fans arriving for the San Antonio Spurs’ home opener on Sunday discovered a new white banner hanging high above the Frost Bank Center: “Pop 1,390.” The understated tribute recognizes Gregg Popovich’s NBA-record total of regular-season coaching victories.
The banner, lifted without ceremony before tipoff, reflects Popovich’s well-known preference for keeping celebrations modest. Spurs head coach Mitch Johnson called the move “very Pop-esque,” noting Popovich’s nearly three decades on the bench and direct role in five championships.
Alongside the Spurs logo, five stars top the banner to commemorate the titles won in 1999, 2003, 2005, 2007 and 2014. “Hall of Fame” appears along the bottom, referencing Popovich’s 2023 enshrinement in Springfield. The tribute joins retired numbers honoring franchise icons David Robinson (50), Sean Elliott (32), Avery Johnson (6), Bruce Bowen (12), Tim Duncan (21), Manu Ginóbili (20) and Tony Parker (9).
Popovich stepped down as head coach in May after suffering a stroke at the arena on Nov. 2, 2024. He remains with the club as president of the organization. Johnson, who guided the team on an interim basis last season, was promoted to the full-time post the same month.
“I’ve been blessed to have his leadership for years,” Johnson said, adding that Popovich’s influence extends far beyond what the public sees. “He’s been that for so many people in so many moments.”
The 74-year-old Popovich finished his coaching tenure with 1,366 regular-season wins and 224 playoff victories, all with San Antonio. The Spurs hired him as general manager in 1994 and named him head coach early in the 1996-97 season, beginning a run that transformed a struggling franchise into a perennial contender.
Source: ESPN
