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[Saba Sports News] Gregg Popovich may have stepped down as head coach, but he’s still quietly influencing the 2025 NBA playoffs.
According to Sam Amick of The Athletic, Popovich called Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka on Friday to offer strategic advice ahead of Game 6 in the Rockets’ first-round series against the Golden State Warriors. The conversation reportedly included “X’s and O’s thoughts” to help counter Golden State’s tactics.
Houston, facing elimination, went on to win 115-107 at Chase Center—suggesting Popovich’s input may have made a real impact.
Popovich and Udoka share a long history. Udoka played under Popovich in San Antonio and later spent seven seasons as an assistant on Pop’s coaching staff. That connection has remained strong, with Popovich now serving as a behind-the-scenes mentor as Udoka navigates his third season as an NBA head coach.
While Popovich officially retired from coaching earlier in the week after nearly 30 years at the helm of the Spurs, his presence is still being felt.
With Game 7 between the Rockets and Warriors looming, it wouldn’t be surprising if he shared a few tips with Warriors coach Steve Kerr—another former player and mentee.