In the dynamic world of NBA coaching, longevity is a rare gem. For the San Antonio Spurs' Gregg Popovich, who has been at the helm for an astounding twenty-eight years, the journey has seen him face off against an impressive 307 different NBA coaches. This article takes a closer look at Pop's encounters with the Detroit Pistons' head coaches since the departure of Bob Hill in 1996.
Doug Collins Era (1995-1998)
The Pistons' coaching carousel began with Doug Collins, who faced Popovich during his third year as the head coach in Detroit. Collins was eventually replaced by his assistant, Alvin Gentry, who had started his NBA coaching career as an assistant in San Antonio.
Alvin Gentry and George Irvine (1998-2001)
Gentry took the reins in 1998, leading the Pistons to a 29-21 record in the shortened 1999 lockout season. However, he was replaced by George Irvine late in the season. Irvine stayed for the 2000-2001 season, but a 32-50 record marked the end of his coaching career in Detroit.
Rick Carlisle's Success (2001-2003)
Rick Carlisle then took charge, achieving back-to-back 50-32 seasons, Central Division titles, and earning the 2002 NBA Coach of the Year accolade.
Larry Brown's Mentorship (2003-2005)
Following Carlisle's departure, Popovich faced his mentor, Larry Brown. Brown guided the Pistons to consecutive 54-28 seasons with NBA Finals appearances, winning the championship in 2004 against a stacked Lakers squad. In 2005, Popovich and Brown squared off in the Finals again, with the Spurs prevailing in a thrilling seven-game series.
Fluctuating Stability (2005-2014)
The coaching stability in Detroit fluctuated, with Flip Saunders (2005-2008), Michael Curry (2008-2009), John Kuester (2009-2011), Lawrence Frank (2011-2013), and a brief stint for Maurice Cheeks and John Loyer (2013-2014). The Pistons struggled, making only one playoff appearance during this period.
Stan Van Gundy's Reign (2014-2018)
Stan Van Gundy brought some stability, serving as both head coach and president of basketball operations. His tenure included one winning season and the Pistons' first postseason appearance since 2009.
Dwane Casey's Arrival (2018-2023)
Dwane Casey, fresh off being named the 2018 NBA Coach of the Year, took the reins in Detroit after being let go by the Toronto Raptors. Despite a five-season stint, the Pistons only secured one playoff berth during Casey's tenure. He now contributes to the Pistons' front office.
Monty Williams Leads the Pistons (2023-Present)
The Pistons, currently led by former Spurs player Monty Williams, face a challenging season with a record of 3-33, making them the Spurs' best chance for a win.
As the Pistons continue their seemingly never-ending cycle of rebuilding, the coaching legacy against Popovich's Spurs remains an intriguing narrative in the ever-evolving landscape of NBA basketball. Tonight's matchup against the struggling Pistons presents another chapter in this storied journey. Go Spurs Go
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