“I hope I can coach long enough to get more than anybody has ever had.” These were the words of Gregg Popovich, the man who made the San Antonio Spurs his home for 3 decades. Since taking over as head coach in 1996, he turned the franchise into a powerhouse, securing five NBA championships. His leadership developed Hall of Famers like Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, and Manu Ginobili while shaping the Spurs’ signature unselfish play. Now, he’s been guiding Victor Wembanyama, the team’s next rising star. However, a major setback has put everything in question.

According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Popovich recently suffered a mild stroke, casting uncertainty over his return. At 76, he is the league’s oldest coach, and his absence could signal a turning point for the organization. Though he has remained involved in Wembanyama’s development from afar, his future with the team—and the NBA—remains unknown. If he does step away, it would mark the end of one of the greatest coaching eras in basketball history. No, we weren’t ready for that. But what has Kevin Garnett said about it?

Amid the news, NBA legend Kevin Garnett paid tribute to Popovich, showing his deep respect for the coach’s contributions to the game. Garnett, who competed against the Spurs in multiple playoff battles, took to social media to express his gratitude. “It’s awww good Pop!! Thx you for some great years of you!! Now go earn yours. Earned it brother. Love Pop. Respect!” Garnett wrote on his Instagram Story. He acknowledged Popovich’s incredible career, hinting that if this is truly his farewell, he has more than earned his time away from the sidelines.

Not just the 5 championship titles, the legendary coach also has the honor of having more wins than any other coach in league history! The former MVP, Garnett, often compared to Popovich’s protégé, Tim Duncan, never played under him but still feels his importance is spread across the game of basketball and not just limited to the Spurs. His tribute reflects the widespread admiration for Popovich, a coach who has left an indelible mark on the sport throughout his 29-year-long career. It’s truly the end of an era!

Will History repeat itself without Gregg Popovich?

Despite the tributes pouring in, Gregg Popovich has not officially announced his retirement. While speculation grows, the legendary coach remains silent about his future, leaving fans in suspense. His potential departure would mark the end of an era, but until an official word comes, nothing is certain. More so in the world of sports, which has seen retirements and comebacks.

The uncertainty brings back memories of the 1996-97 season when the Spurs struggled without David Robinson. The latter suffered from a back injury at the time, leaving him in no position to play. Things went downhill for the team and they ended up with a 2-13 start. This cost the then-head coach — Bob Hill to be fired.

Interestingly, Gregg Popovich was then asked to step up, however, even that didn’t help much either. Robinson ended up injured just 6 games after his return. All these circumstances ended up with Spurs finishing at 20-62. The team finished with a dismal record, but that misfortune led to the drafting of Tim Duncan. The moment that changed the franchise forever.

Fast forward to today—Wembanyama’s injury and Popovich’s uncertain return create a sense of déjà vu. The Spurs currently hold a slim 3% chance for the No. 1 draft pick. Could this misfortune lead to another franchise-altering moment?

Kevin Garnett and others have already paid tribute, hinting at Popovich’s possible retirement. However, no official decision has been made. For now, Spurs fans must wait, hoping history repeats itself—but this time not with loss, but with another transformational era.