SAN ANTONIO — Victor Wembanyama was visibly emotional following the San Antonio Spurs’ victory in the Western Conference finals, which secured their spot in this year’s NBA Finals against the New York Knicks. When asked about his relationship with former Spurs coach Gregg Popovich and what the milestone might mean for the franchise’s winningest coach, Wembanyama expressed the need to reach out to Popovich for perspective.

“I don’t know what it means for him,” Wembanyama said. “He’s been through so many things as ‘El Jefe.’ I need to call him, see him, and talk to him because I can’t imagine how he feels right now.”

Although Popovich retired as head coach last year following a stroke in November 2024, he remains deeply involved with the Spurs organization in his role as president of Spurs basketball. The 77-year-old Hall of Famer is regularly seen at practices and games, occasionally walking with a cane, and continues to offer guidance to players and coaches. His presence was notably felt after the Spurs lost Game 3 of the Western Conference finals to the Oklahoma City Thunder, when he visited the locker room to provide motivation.

Popovich’s influence is widely recognized throughout the basketball community. Spurs guard Devin Vassell highlighted the value of Popovich’s experience. “He just has so much wisdom and stuff that you can’t take for granted,” Vassell said. Knicks coach Mike Brown, who served as an assistant under Popovich in San Antonio for three years, emphasized the lasting imprint Popovich has left on and off the court.

“He still has a huge presence. It will always be felt,” Brown said. “The job he’s done with that team and organization will be imprinted for as long as basketball exists.”

Popovich’s role extends beyond symbolic presence. Following an incident in Game 4 of the Spurs' Western semifinal series against the Minnesota Timberwolves—where Wembanyama was ejected for a flagrant elbow—Popovich met the team at the airport upon their return to San Antonio. Video footage showed Popovich offering stern feedback to Wembanyama, who listened attentively. Wembanyama confirmed that Popovich regularly provides input but declined to reveal the details of their conversation.

With five NBA championships to his name as Spurs head coach, Popovich’s legacy is intertwined with the franchise’s history. Notably, his first title came in 1999 when the Spurs defeated the Knicks—this year’s Finals opponent. Mitch Johnson, who succeeded Popovich as head coach on short notice following the stroke, acknowledged the value of having his predecessor available as a mentor.

“I’m fortunate my old boss is still around and has been through this a few times,” Johnson said. “Coach Pop has been a resource.”

As the Spurs prepare for Game 1 against the Knicks on Wednesday in San Antonio, Wembanyama looks forward to reconnecting with Popovich for guidance during this pivotal moment. “When I talk to him, it’s going to be only stored in my head—except if I record it in secret—but I need to talk to him, so quick,” Wembanyama said.

With four wins remaining to claim the NBA title, the Spurs and their emerging star continue to draw on the leadership and wisdom of a coach whose influence remains a cornerstone of the organization’s identity.