San Antonio City Council member Manny Pelaez has proposed renaming the San Antonio International Airport after legendary Spurs coach Gregg Popovich.
San Antonio may soon honor one of its greatest basketball icons in a big way. This week, city council member Manny Pelaez officially submitted a proposal to rename the San Antonio International Airport after legendary Spurs coach Gregg Popovich.
2-pointers this season
San Antonio Spurs
NBA
Popovich, who recently stepped away from the sidelines after suffering a stroke in November 2024, closed the book on one of the most decorated coaching careers in NBA history.
In his place, the San Antonio Spurs introduced Mitch Johnson as the new head coach, while Popovich transitioned into his new role as president of basketball operations.
Per Texas Public Radio, Pelaez made it clear why Pop’s name belongs on the front of the city’s airport. He filed the request with city clerk Debbie Racca-Sittre and emphasized Popovich’s “immeasurable” impact on San Antonio.
Popovich spent 29 seasons as head coach of the Spurs, finishing with a record of 1,422 wins and 869 losses.
He guided the franchise to six NBA Finals appearances, winning five championships. From 1998 to 2019, the Spurs made the playoffs 22 straight times — an all-time NBA record.
The accolades speak for themselves. Popovich holds the record for most regular-season wins in NBA history. He ranks third in playoff victories behind only Phil Jackson and Pat Riley. His three NBA Coach of the Year awards tie him with Riley and Don Nelson. He also led Team USA to gold at the 2020 Olympics.
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