In 1996, Gregg Popovich became the head coach of the San Antonio Spurs, marking the beginning of one of the most successful eras in NBA history. Nearly three decades later, Popovich’s influence on the game extends far beyond the five championships and numerous accolades he has earned with the Spurs. His impact is deeply embedded in the league through the many coaches who have passed through his tutelage and gone on to achieve great success in their own right.
Popovich is not just one of the most decorated coaches in the NBA, but also one of the most influential figures in modern basketball. With five NBA championships, three NBA Coach of the Year awards, and an Olympic gold medal under his belt, Popovich has solidified his place among the all-time coaching greats. However, his legacy is perhaps best reflected in the success of the coaches who have worked under him, each carrying forward the principles and strategies they learned from the legendary tactician.
Gregg Popovich’s coaching tree is one of the most impressive in the NBA, with several of his former assistants and players becoming successful head coaches. Here’s a look at three of the most notable figures who have thrived after learning from Popovich.
Ime Udoka’s rise to prominence as an NBA head coach is a testament to the valuable experience he gained under Popovich. Udoka, who played for the Spurs from 2007 to 2009, began his coaching career with San Antonio, where he served as an assistant for seven seasons. During his time with the Spurs, Udoka was a part of the team’s 2014 championship run, absorbing Popovich’s approach to team-building and defensive intensity.
Udoka’s coaching acumen was on full display when he took the reins of the Boston Celtics for the 2021-22 season. In his very first year as a head coach, Udoka led the Celtics to the NBA Finals, a remarkable achievement that earned him widespread acclaim. Although his tenure in Boston was short-lived, he quickly found a new challenge with the Houston Rockets, where he aims to build his own legacy. Udoka’s success is a direct reflection of the lessons he learned under Gregg Popovich, particularly in developing a strong defensive foundation and fostering team chemistry.
Mike Budenholzer’s journey from a young assistant coach to an NBA champion is one of the most compelling success stories in the league. Budenholzer spent 17 seasons with the Spurs, working closely with Gregg Popovich during one of the most dominant periods in the franchise’s history. As an integral part of the coaching staff, Budenholzer contributed to four NBA championships in San Antonio, gaining a deep understanding of the game’s intricacies and the importance of adaptability.
After leaving the Spurs, Budenholzer became the head coach of the Atlanta Hawks, where he quickly made his mark by leading the team to the Eastern Conference Finals in 2015. His greatest achievement, however, came with the Milwaukee Bucks, where he guided the team to an NBA championship in 2021, breaking a 50-year title drought for the franchise. Budenholzer’s ability to instill discipline, execute effective game plans, and manage superstar talent like Giannis Antetokounmpo are all traits honed during his time with Gregg Popovich. Now, as the head coach of the Phoenix Suns, Budenholzer continues to apply the lessons learned from his mentor to one of the NBA’s most talented rosters.
Steve Kerr’s career arc from player to coach is a story of perseverance, learning, and incredible success. Kerr played a vital role in the Spurs’ championship teams in 1999 and 2003, where he was exposed to Popovich’s unique approach to coaching and leadership. After retiring from playing, Kerr transitioned into broadcasting and front-office roles before taking the plunge into coaching in 2014 when the Golden State Warriors offered him the head coaching position.
Kerr’s impact was immediate and profound. In his first season, he led the Warriors to an NBA championship, beginning a dynastic run that included four titles in eight years and six NBA Finals appearances. Under Kerr, the Warriors became known for their revolutionary style of play, characterized by ball movement, three-point shooting, and positional versatility—concepts that are deeply rooted in the principles Kerr absorbed from Popovich.
In addition to his success with the Warriors, Kerr has also made significant contributions on the international stage. In 2024, he led the USA men’s national team to a gold medal at the Paris Olympics, further cementing his status as one of the game’s elite coaches. Kerr’s coaching philosophy, which emphasizes teamwork, selflessness, and mental toughness, is a direct reflection of the values instilled in him by Popovich.
Gregg Popovich’s legacy as a coach goes beyond the trophies and accolades. His ability to mentor and develop coaches who go on to achieve their own success is a testament to his deep understanding of the game and his commitment to the growth of basketball as a whole. The success of Ime Udoka, Mike Budenholzer, and Steve Kerr is not just a reflection of their individual talents, but also of the guidance and wisdom they received under Popovich’s mentorship.
Popovich’s influence on the NBA is likely to be felt for many years to come, as more of his former assistants and players take on coaching roles and spread the principles they learned in San Antonio. His approach to coaching, which emphasizes discipline, adaptability, and a deep respect for the game, has set a standard that few can match. As the NBA continues to evolve, Popovich’s legacy will remain a cornerstone of the league’s history, shaping the future of the sport in
Gregg Popovich’s impact on the NBA transcends his success with the Spurs, as his teachings continue to influence the league through the many successful coaches who learned under his guidance.
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