One of the most well-reputed organizations in the NBA, the San Antonio Spurs are widely revered for their professionalism. Holding five championship banners to its credit, the Peter J. Holt-owned franchise is also known for its well-aligned structure, all-around stability, team-over-individual approach, top-tier international recruitment and winning culture.
The Spurs way has always prioritized long-term goals over immediate gains, as evidenced by the evolution of homegrown talents like Tim Duncan , David Robinson, Manu Ginobili and Tony Parker . That said, the Spurs have also been represented by the likes of Pau Gasol , who signed a two-year $30 million deal with the team in 2016.
In the latter stages of his career, Gasol could still add a lot of value, especially with his championship DNA. Talking about his tenure with the Spurs, the seven-footer once revealed the list of factors that contributed to his decision to move to San Antonio .
"Obviously, me going to San Antonio that was a big part of the reason. I wanted to be coached by him. I wanted to experience the Spurs culture, play with those great, also Hall of Famers, Tony Parker, Manu Ginobili, Tim (Duncan) retired, but he was still around. LaMarcus Aldridge, Kawhi Leonard, they're a great team, great players," explained The Spaniard in a 2024 interview with The LADE Show.
A Top 15 coach of all time, it's no secret that the goodwill that Popovich holds among the NBA fraternity. While most of it has to do with his extraordinary coaching, what also sets him apart from others is his ability to speak strongly on social justice issues like racism and police brutality.
A first-hand witness to all of the above, Gasol once detailed what, apart from Popovich's coaching brilliance, had him respected across all boards.
"Pop was also very caring about the social aspect. Understanding that we all had a platform, that that was important to have perspective of what was going on. That basketball was kind of our job, but what's truly important is family, what's truly important is giving back and being aware and sensitive to social injustices, to what's going on and how we can affect our communities," disclosed the six-time All-Star.
At the same time, one cannot help but discuss Popovich's greatness as a coach, who devoted nearly his entire NBA career to the Spurs. In his 29 years as head coach, Gregg held a 1412-812 record in the regular season and a 170-114 record in the playoffs. Not to mention, he was also a pivotal force for Team USA men's basketball, leading them to a Gold medal in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. No surprise that he was such a crucial factor in Gasol signing with the Spurs.
While his stay didn't lead to any major career accomplishments, Pau had his fair share of memorable moments playing for the Spurs. One of the biggest high points for him was being coached by Popovich, someone he held in very high regard.
The seven-footer also discovered a rather untapped 3-point shooting potential around that time, shooting 44 percent from beyond the arc during his time in San Antonio. Pau also helped fill the void of The Fundamental to some extent.
The Spanish big man wrapped up his stint with the Spurs, posting a 108-60 record, while also making a Western Conference Finals appearance in 2017. Unfortunately, injuries and Father Time would eventually lead to a buyout in 2019. Regardless, he'd served his purpose of playing in San Antonio and loved every second of it.
Related: Nick Van Exel picks between Manu Ginobili and Tony Parker: "I would have to say..."
This story was originally published by Basketball Network on Jul 28, 2026, where it first appeared in the Off The Court section. Add Basketball Network as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
