San Antonio Spurs and Victor Wembanyama’s Road to the NBA Finals

Victor Wembanyama struggled to articulate his feelings after the San Antonio Spurs clinched the Western Conference title. They earned a spot in the NBA Finals against the New York Knicks. The question aimed to explore his connection with former coach Gregg Popovich and the significance of this playoff run for him. Wembanyama paused, visibly moved, before answering.

“I don’t know what it means for him,” Wembanyama admitted. He reflected on Popovich’s vast experience and numerous challenges. He expressed a desire to connect with him, stating, “I need to call him. I need to see him. I need to talk to him because there’s no way I can understand right now how he feels.”

Popovich, at 77, holds the title of President of Spurs Basketball. Though retired from coaching after a stroke in 2024, he remains a significant influence. He is often seen giving advice at practices and games, despite sometimes using a cane. Known affectionately as ‘El Jefe,’ the boss, he continues to shape the team. His impact was felt when he visited the Spurs’ locker room after losing Game 3 of the West finals against Oklahoma City.

“You talk about the greatest coach pretty much of all time,” said Spurs guard Devin Vassell. He highlighted Popovich’s wisdom and the irreversible influence he has on the players.

The Spurs are set to face the Knicks, starting with Game 1 in San Antonio. Knicks coach Mike Brown, a former assistant under Popovich, acknowledged his enduring legacy. “His presence is very much felt all the time,” Brown mentioned, praising Popovich’s contributions on and off the court.

Popovich’s influence extends beyond strategy. When Wembanyama was ejected from a semifinal game for a flagrant foul, Popovich met him at the airport to discuss the incident. The encounter was caught on camera, showing Popovich advising while Wembanyama listened. Although the details of their conversation remain private, Wembanyama revealed that Popovich regularly communicates with the team.

Popovich won five NBA championships with the Spurs, the first against the Knicks in 1999. Now, under the guidance of Mitch Johnson, the Spurs face the Knicks again in the finals. Johnson noted Popovich’s continued support, saying, “I’m fortunate my old boss is still around, and has been through this a few times.”

In the wake of their decisive victory, Wembanyama felt a strong urge to speak with Popovich. He remarked lightly, “When I talk to him, it’s going to be only stored in my head — except if I record it in secret.” For Wembanyama, Popovich remains the trusted expert on guiding the team to victory. They aim for four more wins, and Wembanyama knows the path to success is to follow Popovich’s wisdom.

AP Basketball Writer Brian Mahoney in Greenburgh, New York, contributed additional insights.