After nearly three decades on the sidelines, a historic chapter in NBA history is coming to a close. Gregg Popovich, the legendary architect of the San Antonio Spurs dynasty, is officially stepping down as head coach and transitioning to his full-time role as Team President. The news marks the end of Popovich’s remarkable 29-year tenure as head coach — the longest in NBA history.

Popovich’s impact on the game is immeasurable. Since taking over as head coach in 1996, he has led the Spurs to five NBA championships, 22 consecutive playoff appearances, and helped shape some of the league’s greatest players — from Tim Duncan and Manu Ginóbili to Tony Parker and Kawhi Leonard. More than just wins and titles, Popovich built a culture of humility, selflessness, and excellence that turned San Antonio into the NBA’s model franchise for two decades.

This transition has been on the horizon in recent years, especially with Popovich taking on a larger front-office role and mentoring the next generation. The arrival of generational talent Victor Wembanyama and the Spurs’ long-term rebuilding plan seem to have helped signal the right moment for the shift.

As Team President, Popovich will remain deeply involved in shaping the Spurs’ future, guiding the organization from the executive level as it enters a promising new era. Whoever steps in as head coach will have big shoes to fill — not just strategically, but culturally.

Popovich departs the bench with over 1,300 wins and a legacy as one of the greatest coaches in sports history. More importantly, he leaves behind a standard of leadership, accountability, and integrity that will continue to influence the Spurs — and the league — for years to come.

San Antonio now begins a new chapter, but one that still carries Pop’s fingerprints all over it.

The Duke Blue Devils are entering a new era after an impressive season led by standout freshmen Cooper Flagg, Kon Knueppel, and Khaman Maluach.

Duke wrapped up the season with a 35-4 record and made it all the way to the NCAA Final Four. Although their run ended with a loss to Houston, they notched key victories over Alabama, Arizona, Baylor, and Mount St. Mary’s during March Madness.

Now, head coach Jon Scheyer faces the challenge of rebuilding a roster that’s losing one of the most talented freshman groups in the program’s history.

Known for their selective recruiting approach, Duke recently landed a major addition from the transfer portal: Cedric Coward from Washington State. The move appears to be an ideal fit for both sides.