Wemby Talks Gregg Popovich's Influence on Spurs, NBA Finals Run and More Ahead of Game 1 vs. Knicks

Victor Wembanyama discussed legendary former head coach Gregg Popovich's impact on the San Antonio Spurs as the team prepares to face the New York Knicks in the 2026 NBA Finals.

"He's talked to us through every game of every series and he's been our guiding force through losses and wins," Wembanyama said in an interview with ESPN's Malika Andrews (1:02 mark).

Popovich has contributed to San Antonio's playoff run in multiple ways, addressing the roster prior to a first-round series matchup with the Portland Trail Blazers and joining the team for a film session after a Game 1 defeat at the hands of the Minnesota Timberwolves in the second round.

Popovich spent 29 seasons as head coach of the Spurs, helping the team capture five championships and becoming the NBA's all-time leader in coaching wins.

He took a leave of absence from the team after suffering a stroke in Nov. 2024. In May 2025, Popovich transitioned to a full-time role as San Antonio's president of basketball operations and has remained in the position ever since.

As for Wembanyama, the 2025-26 Defensive Player of the Year has excelled on both ends of the floor during the Spurs' current postseason run.

He's averaging 23.2 points, 10.8 rebounds and 3.5 blocks per game while shooting 51.0 percent from the field and 37.0 percent from three-point territory in 17 playoff appearances.

Wembanyama is now gearing up for Game 1 against the Knicks, which starts on Wednesday at 8:30 p.m. ET.