Gregg Popovich, the winningest coach in NBA history, has signed a five-year extension with the San Antonio Spurs. Popovich’s latest contract expired after the 2023 season.
The Spurs had the first overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft and selected Victor Wembanyama. Popovich is obviously excited to coach the youngster.
The Spurs have won five championships under Popovich, who has coached David Robinson, Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, Manu Ginobili and Kawhi Leonard. Popovich will now get to coach Wembanyama.
Wembanyama struggled in his Summer League debut on July 7 in Las Vegas. The French star finished with nine points, eight rebounds, three assists and five blocks while going 2-for-13 from the field and 4-for-4 from the free-throw line.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Gregg Popovich & San Antonio Spurs Updates
Wembanyama missed his first five 3-point attempts, but he drew a rousing ovation from the crowd when his sixth attempt went in with 2:50 remaining in the fourth quarter.
“Overall, I’m glad we won this game,” Wembanyama said. “There’s no better way to start for your premiere. Honestly, I didn’t really know what I was doing on the court tonight. I’m trying to learn for next game.”
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Gregg Popovich & San Antonio Spurs Updates
Every time Wembanyama checked out of the game, he looked fatigued. He said he is going to have to improve his fitness to get ready for an 82-game season.
“I think there’s a lot of conditioning to do,” Wembanyama said. “Especially with our play style, we run a lot. It’s really exhausting. Even though it was 40 minutes tonight, when I subbed out, I was always tired and exhausted. So I think there’s a lot of conditioning to do.”
The Spurs are back in action on July 9 against the Portland Trail Blazers. It will be interesting to see if Wembanyama is able to play better. The Spurs organization is certainly hoping so.
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