As Tiago Splitter's future hangs in the balance, Gregg Popovich shows signs of recovery ahead of the NBA playoffs.
Category: Sports
In a thrilling matchup set for Sunday, the Portland Trail Blazers will face the San Antonio Spurs in the first round of the NBA playoffs. This game marks a notable return to the postseason for the Blazers, who last made the playoffs five years ago, largely due to the leadership of interim head coach Tiago Splitter.
Splitter, who took over the coaching reins after Chauncey Billups was arrested on federal charges related to illegal gambling, has successfully guided the Blazers to a 42-39 regular season record. His ability to develop young talent has also drawn praise from players and coaches alike. “Results speak for themselves,” said Deni Avdija, a key player for the Blazers. “He was put into a challenging situation when he took over the team and we’ve had to use different rotations and guys all season. But I feel like he adjusted amazingly through all that. I feel like he got the best out of everybody. We love playing for him.”
As Splitter prepares for the playoffs, speculation about his future with the team hangs large. New owner Tom Dundon has indicated a desire to explore other coaching options, which raises questions about whether Splitter will retain his position beyond this season. Dundon reportedly does not want to pay the standard rate for a first-time NBA head coach, and he has suggested that he will interview multiple candidates. Splitter himself acknowledged the uncertainty, saying, “I don’t know yet. I’ve still got to think it through. I’ll probably just go with the facts, what happened, what I did and why I did it at that moment, why it worked or didn’t work. We’re going to go down with the facts.”
At 41 years old, Splitter has expressed a strong attachment to Portland, where he moved his family from France after being hired as an assistant last summer. “Honestly, before we came here, we were not sure if we would like it or not. But we love it. The outdoors — my kids are playing outside all day — and my wife says it feels like home. We love the city and we love the organization,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Spurs, led by the legendary Gregg Popovich, are entering the playoffs as the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference. Popovich, who has faced health challenges in recent years, including a stroke in 2024, stepped down as head coach in 2025 after 29 years at the helm. He now serves as the president of basketball operations for the organization. Recently, a video surfaced showing Popovich moving around the Spurs’ practice facility without a cane, signaling a positive turn in his health. The 77-year-old has been actively guiding rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama and the Spurs throughout the season, demonstrating his enduring commitment to the franchise.
Popovich's coaching legacy is unparalleled; he has led the Spurs to five NBA Championships and a record 22 consecutive playoff appearances. His tactical acumen and ability to develop players have made him a revered figure in the sport. As the Spurs prepare to face the Blazers, Popovich's presence will undoubtedly be felt, even if he is no longer on the sidelines as head coach.
The matchup between the Blazers and Spurs is particularly intriguing, because of the contrasting trajectories of the two franchises and due to the personal stakes involved for Splitter and Popovich. Splitter, who has been recognized for his coaching prowess, will be looking to prove himself in the playoffs, potentially securing a permanent role with the team. On the other hand, Popovich, who has been a mentor to many players, will be hoping to guide his team deep into the playoffs as they aim for another championship run.
As the series begins, both teams are aware of the challenges ahead. For the Blazers, this is an opportunity to showcase their growth and resilience under Splitter’s leadership. For the Spurs, it is a chance to continue their legacy of excellence, even as they navigate the transition in coaching. The first game of the series is scheduled for Sunday at 9:00 p.m. ET at the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio.
The playoff series will test the mettle of the players involved and serve as a reflection of the contrasting futures of both franchises. As Splitter seeks to solidify his position, Popovich's health and leadership will remain a focal point for the Spurs. With the stakes high for both teams, fans can expect an exhilarating start to the playoffs.