San Antonio Proposes Renaming Airport After Retired Coach Gregg Popovich

Following Gregg Popovich's retirement after 29 seasons as head coach of the San Antonio Spurs, city councilman Manny Pelaez proposed renaming the San Antonio International Airport in Popovich's honor. Pelaez highlighted Popovich's immeasurable impact on the city through his legendary coaching, social justice efforts, and philanthropic work, asserting that naming the airport after him would serve as a lasting tribute to his extraordinary legacy. Popovich's tenure with the Spurs included five championships, 1,422 wins, and 22 playoff appearances, making him the longest-tenured and winningest coach with a single NBA team. While Popovich's coaching style was known for its discipline and structure, leading to some strained relationships with players like Robert Horry, his legacy remains widely respected and admired. The proposal to rename the airport has attracted public interest, though the final decision awaits further council deliberations. Despite Popovich stepping down as coach, his influence as a pillar of the San Antonio community and basketball icon continues to be celebrated.