Pop’s presence still shapes San Antonio

Gregg Popovich may no longer coach from the sideline, but his influence remains deeply embedded in San Antonio’s daily routine. Rookie Carter Bryant, drafted in 2025, has quickly discovered how present Pop still is within the organization. After practices, Popovich often pulled him aside for blunt technical critiques, once telling him his jab step was “the worst” he had ever seen and urging him to study Brandon Roy and Kobe Bryant. Bryant values that honesty, noting that Pop also messages him after every game, offering feedback before the team even leaves the locker room.

During a difficult stretch, Pop shared stories about Kawhi Leonard and Bruce Bowen to remind him that development requires patience and steady work. For a young player fighting for minutes, having Popovich as a mentor is a rare advantage. Even without the title of head coach, Pop continues to shape Spurs culture through direct guidance, sharp insight, and unwavering standards.