A great photo of Gregg Popovich with Manu Ginobili and Tim Duncan has received a fitting meme.
Popovich spoke with the media on Monday to announce that he is moving into a front office role with the San Antonio Spurs. Mitch Johnson is taking over as the team’s head coach and is no longer working in an interim capacity.
When Popovich made his announcement, he had Ginobili and Duncan by his side. His former players had helped him walk to the podium, and then later helped him exit the room. The photo of them walking together looked just like a meme from the Ninja Turtles that showed the turtles walking alongside their elder leader Shredder.
— Guin (@yoitsguin) May 5, 2025
Shredder was called “master” by the Ninja Turtles. Popovich holds a similar role for the Spurs — he was the master and leader for all those great players. He helped them win five championships and made them a dynasty that spread to two decades. His players clearly love him and have immense respect for him, and they show that with the way they care for him.
Popovich is now sliding into a role as the “jefe” of the Spurs following a 29-season run as the team’s head coach. The 76-year-old is transitioning roles due to health problems that have slowed him down. He suffered a stroke in November and dealt with a medical emergency in mid-April.
