Spurs Give Popovich Extension
Gregg Popovich signed a four-year contract extension Tuesday, 11 days after coaching the San Antonio Spurs to their first NBA title.
Popovich had one year remaining on a three-year deal. The new contract keeps him on as both coach and general manager.
"He has really proven his ability to put together successful offensive and defensive schemes, as well as build a team that thinks and plays as a team," Spurs chairman Peter Holt said.
Popovich was to be paid $1.2 million next season under his old contract, the San Antonio Express-News reported. Financial terms of the new contract were not disclosed.
"I am both thrilled and fortunate to have the opportunity to coach this great group of people, and look forward with great anticipation to next season," Popovich said.
In only his second full year as coach, Popovich led the Spurs past the Knicks in five games.
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| After guiding the Spurs to their first-ever NBA championship, coach and GM Gregg Popovich receives a contract extension. (AP) |
He took over as general manager before the 1994-95 season. In December 1996 he fired Bob Hill and made himself the coach.
After an injury-plagued 1996-97 season that ended with the worst record (20-62) in franchise history, Popovich drafted Tim Duncan. The Spurs have enjoyed two consecutive winning seasons culminating in this year's championship.
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