Rick Carlisle Reflects on Gregg Popovich’s Coaching Legacy

INDIANAPOLIS – Rick Carlisle, head coach of the Indiana Pacers, praised longtime San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich during a recent practice. Popovich, a Hall of Famer, announced his retirement from coaching after 29 seasons, marking the end of an era defined by five NBA championships and a record 1,422 wins.

Carlisle, who served as an assistant coach before becoming a head coach, remembered his early career when Popovich invited him to learn from the Spurs. ‘That fall he invited me to come down to their camp to watch and sit in on some meetings,’ Carlisle said. ‘It was just a great opportunity to see how he operated his team.’ Carlisle credited Popovich with empowering both players and staff, fostering a coaching tree that produced many successful head coaches.

Recently, Popovich, who is recovering from a mild stroke, shifted to a front office role following his retirement. The Spurs announced assistant coach Mitch Johnson has been named the new head coach.

‘He’s the greatest coach in NBA history,’ Carlisle said of Popovich. ‘His impact on the coaching profession and the entire game is massive.’ Carlisle reminisced about competing against Popovich while coaching in Dallas, a rivalry that brought respect and admiration for Popovich’s coaching style.

Carlisle continues to be grateful for the mentorship he received from Popovich, as many others in the league have shared similar sentiments. The NBA community recognizes the significant mark Popovich leaves on the game as he steps away from coaching.