NBA: Ranking all 30 head coaches heading into 2023-24

1. Gregg Popovich, San Antonio Spurs

Gregg Popovich still takes the top spot among active head coaches. He hasn’t lost his fastball at age 74 either. Don’t be surprised if the Spurs compete again soon led by “Pop” and the top pick in this year’s draft, Victor Wembanyama. The rookie couldn’t have landed with a better coach to learn from.

Popovich has established “The Spurs Way” over his 27 seasons as head coach in San Antonio. He’s a tactician who plays to the strengths of his players. He creates open looks through multiple screens and constant ball movement. His 2014 Spurs team displayed some of the best ball movement I’ve ever seen during those Finals. Even his defense revolves around a true team defense.

“Pop” maintains that no one player is above the team. Not Tim Duncan. Not Tony Parker. Not Manu Ginobili. Not Matt Bonner. He has managed to get most players to buy into “The Spurs Way” for the good of the team. If they don’t, they’re either in his doghouse or out the door. The ones that buy-in are given opportunities to develop.

Erik Spoelstra may be the current king of developing lower-drafted and undrafted players. “Pop” did it first and is the king in that regard. His NBA coaching resume is second to none among active head coaches.

In most aspects, it’s not even close.