Gregg Popovich had the chance to go up in the all-time coaching wins list on Monday night had the San Antonio Spurs beat the Boston Celtics. A victory would've moved him tied for sixth place together with Phil Jackson with 1,155 wins.
Popovich (1,154) can tie Phil Jackson tonight on the all-time coaching wins. Asked Brad if he'd coach that long. "No shot." #Spurs #Celtics
— Jabari Young (@JabariJYoung) October 30, 2017
Now in his 22nd season calling the shots for the Spurs, Gregg Popovich has won five championships, with the last one back in 2014 when his team beat the Miami Heat in only five games. What’s even more impressive is that the Spurs have only missed the playoffs once during his tenure with the team, making the franchise one of the most successful ones in NBA history.
The 68-year-old is still looking very sharp and has not shown any signs of calling it a career anytime soon. If he keeps up this pace, he could continue moving up the list, and has a strong chance of finishing this season ranked fourth, overtaking George Karl (1,175) and Pat Riley (1.210). The top spot is also within reach, as Don Nelson's 1,335 victories could be eclipsed by Gregg Popovich in three years time, assuming the Spurs can continue winning at least 62 games per season.
However, regardless of where he ends up on the list, the three-time NBA Coach of the Year winner will go down as an all time great. He is respected around the basketball world by players, coaches, and even executives, and will undoubtedly be enshrined in the Hall of Fame someday.
Gregg Popovich will have his next shot at tying Phil Jackson when the Spurs go up against the Golden State Warriors Thursday.
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