San Antonio is considering renaming its international airport to honor legendary Spurs coach Gregg Popovich. Councilman Manny Pelaez has formally proposed changing the name of San Antonio International Airport to “Gregg Popovich International Airport.” The proposal, supported by four other council members, highlights Popovich’s profound impact on the city through his 29-year coaching career, five NBA championships, and his embodiment of values like excellence, dignity, and service .
Popovich, 76, retired from coaching earlier this month and now serves as the Spurs’ President of Basketball Operations. His military background, including service in the U.S. Air Force, further strengthens the case for the renaming in “Military City, USA.” The proposal is currently under review by the council’s governance committee and would require full council approval to proceed .
If approved, this would mark the first time a major U.S. airport is named after an NBA coach. The initiative has sparked discussions about Popovich’s legacy and the broader implications of such a tribute.