San Antonio Spurs legend and four-time NBA champion Tony Parker revealed that he’s seriously pursuing a future in coaching, with his ultimate goal set on becoming a head coach in the NBA. Speaking candidly about his decision, Parker explained that a conversation with Gregg Popovich sparked the desire, and now he’s fully committed to the grind.
“When I stepped onto the court, it reminded me of my basketball camps when I was in Fécamp. Last October, after my first discussion with [Gregg Popovich], I felt this strong desire,” said Parker in a chat with L’equipe. “I asked him for advice, and the Spurs opened the doors to me in January, February, and March, where I was able to observe everything over seven or ten days.”
Parker already has the credentials to make a fine NBA coach, but he’s taking the extra step to ensure he’s fully prepared. According to the legend, part of the process includes getting his “Diplome d’Entraineur Sportif,” a French coaching diploma and high-level certification that will allow him to coach some of the most prestigious teams in the world. It’s not a requirement in the NBA, but he’s pursuing it nevertheless.
“Then, I had a long discussion with Zizou [Zinédine Zidane] and Titi [Thierry Henry], who convinced me to do the DES. Because in itself, I don’t need it to coach in the NBA. My dream is to coach in the NBA. But I said to myself, ‘Why not go back to school?’ This year, I’m going to take the DES. I hope I’ll pass it in May, and then start a coaching career.”
Parker, 43, is an 18-year NBA veteran and a Spurs legend. He rose to stardom after being drafted in 2001 (28th pick) and enjoyed a successful career as a starting point guard. Alongside Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobili, he formed a three-headed monster that became a dynasty in the West. They won four championships together and stand as one of the greatest trios in NBA history.
He also played under coaching legend Gregg Popovich, who is well-regarded for his basketball IQ, leadership, and unique coaching strategies. For nearly two decades, Parker played in ideal conditions, learning from some of the best minds in the game.
Now, he’s taking his talents to the coaching bench with hopes of one day coaching a team of his own on the professional level. It remains to be seen which team will give Parker his first coaching opportunity, but the Spurs would certainly make for an interesting fit. While Mitch Johnson has taken over the role in place of Popovich (now retired), things could always change if they feel he isn’t the right fit.
With the Spurs in a new era and Parker completing his DES certification next spring, a reunion in San Antonio isn’t out of the question. Whether he starts as an assistant or takes over down the line, it would be a fitting full-circle moment for one of the franchise’s most beloved icons, and a new chapter in a basketball life that’s already been full of winning.
