Mike Brown Reflects on Journey from Spurs to Knicks

Although Knicks coach Mike Brown learned a great deal during his time as an assistant under Gregg Popovich with the Spurs, he didn’t quite find the courage to reach out to him ahead of the NBA Finals.

Is it fear? Perhaps sabotage?

Before Game 1 against the Spurs, Brown described Popovich as “very insightful” and “very competitive.” He joked that if he asked for advice, Popovich might offer strategies that could work against him. It was a humorous nod indicative of Popovich’s influence.

During his 29 years coaching the Spurs, Popovich cultivated an environment where laughter was essential. He often used humor to alleviate the pressures associated with the grueling 82-game season.

Despite his fierce competitiveness, Popovich maintained a perspective that basketball was, in the end, just a game. Interestingly, he was known to let go of staff members who couldn’t share a good joke or whip up a decent meal.

Perhaps this is why the partnership between Popovich and Brown thrived. Brown has a natural likability about him. He laughs easily and doesn’t shy away from making light of situations.

Following a hard-fought 105-104 win against the Spurs in Game 2, Brown is now just two victories away from claiming his first NBA championship as a head coach.

It’s been a long, winding path for Brown, who’s served as an assistant or head coach for eight NBA teams over the last 29 years, enduring four firings along the way.

He has mentored some of the league’s biggest names, like LeBron James and Kobe Bryant, and learned under esteemed coaches such as Popovich and Steve Kerr. For the first time in his career, he stands on the brink of winning the Larry O’Brien Trophy.

Brown attributes much of his success to the lessons learned from Popovich. “That was huge,” he admitted. “Pop is iconic, especially here in San Antonio.” He spoke of the legendary coach’s impact on basketball culture.

During their three seasons together, Brown witnessed firsthand how Popovich operated. They celebrated a championship in 2003, one of the Spurs’ five titles and a testament to their enduring legacy.

Interestingly, Brown noted that the most valuable lessons he learned from Popovich weren’t strictly about X’s and O’s. “You learn relationship skills,” he explained, referring to the importance of connecting with not just the team but the community as well.

This understanding has served him well, especially since he was let go by the Kings in December 2024. In his first season leading the Knicks, he’s already made significant acquisitions, bringing in players like Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns.

Popovich’s influence on Brown runs even deeper. When Brown went through a personal crisis in 2002, Popovich threatened to fire him if he didn’t take the time to say goodbye to his sons before leaving with the team.

After Brown’s dismissal from the Cavaliers in 2014, Popovich offered him a way back into the NBA by allowing him to work as a volunteer consultant, which ultimately helped him secure a role as an assistant with the Warriors.

Brown emphasized Popovich’s unparalleled capacity for supporting his staff during personal challenges, saying, “He helps people through good and bad times.” This speaks to the emotional depth and stability Popovich has offered throughout Brown’s career.

At 77, Popovich, who retired after suffering a stroke in November 2024, now watches his former team from the stands. Despite the distance, he remains involved, regularly reaching out to Spurs rookie Victor Wembanyama, helping him develop into a star.

But on the opposing sideline sits Brown, grateful not only for career guidance but for the friendship Popovich has provided.

“He’s a special human being,” Brown said.