Greg Popovich is one of the most successful and respected coaches in NBA history. He has been the head coach of the San Antonio Spurs since 1996 and has led the team to five NBA championships. But before he became one of the best coaches in the game, did Greg Popovich play basketball?
Early Years
Greg Popovich was born in East Chicago, Indiana in 1949. He grew up in the nearby town of Merrillville and attended Merrillville High School, where he played basketball and baseball. After high school, he attended the United States Air Force Academy, where he studied Soviet studies and played basketball.
Career at the Air Force Academy
At the Air Force Academy, Greg Popovich was a standout player, averaging 12.8 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game. He earned multiple accolades, including All-Western Athletic Conference honors, and was named team captain in his senior year. He was also recognized for his academic achievements and was selected to receive the prestigious Silver Spoon Award.
Coaching After the Air Force
After graduating from the Air Force Academy, Greg Popovich decided to pursue a career in coaching. He served as an assistant coach at the Air Force Academy for two years before leaving to become an assistant coach at the University of Kansas. He later served as the head coach at Pomona-Pitzer College from 1979 to 1988, where he compiled a remarkable record of 175-49.
NBA Coaching Career
In 1988, Greg Popovich joined the San Antonio Spurs as an assistant coach. He was eventually promoted to head coach in 1996, a position he has held ever since. During his tenure, Popovich has guided the Spurs to five NBA championships and is widely regarded as one of the best coaches in NBA history.
Did Greg Popovich Play Basketball?
The answer is yes, Greg Popovich did play basketball. He was a standout player at the Air Force Academy and earned multiple honors, including All-Western Athletic Conference honors and the prestigious Silver Spoon Award.
Basketball Skills and Style of Play
Greg Popovich was known for his defensive skills, which helped him stand out at the Air Force Academy. He was also a good rebounder, averaging 5.2 rebounds per game. He was also known for his ability to lead his teammates and was selected as team captain in his senior year.
Popovich’s Coaching Legacy
Though Greg Popovich never achieved the same level of success as a player that he has as a coach, there is no doubt he had a successful playing career. His experience as a player has undoubtedly helped him become one of the best coaches in NBA history.
Popovich’s Other Ventures
In addition to coaching the San Antonio Spurs, Greg Popovich has also been involved in various other ventures. He is a co-owner of the Austin Spurs, the Spurs’ G-League affiliate, and is a board member of the National Basketball Players Association. He has also been involved in charitable work, including the Gregg Popovich Foundation, which provides scholarships and educational opportunities to underprivileged youth.
Conclusion
Greg Popovich is one of the most successful and respected coaches in NBA history. Before becoming a renowned coach, he was a standout player at the Air Force Academy, where he earned multiple accolades and was selected as team captain in his senior year. He has been able to use his experience as a player to become one of the best coaches in the game, and his legacy will continue to live on for years to come.