Spurs' Popovich Ties Sloan for 3rd on NBA Wins List

DeMar DeRozan leads Spurs to victory over Pistons

Apr. 15, 2026 at 1:03am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting fragmented, overlapping shapes and planes in shades of blue, green, and red, representing the dynamic action of a basketball game.Popovich's milestone win with the Spurs showcases his enduring impact on the NBA game.San Antonio Today

DeMar DeRozan had 26 points, nine assists and seven rebounds as the San Antonio Spurs defeated the Detroit Pistons 119-107 on Monday. The win was the 1,221st of Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich's career, tying him with Jerry Sloan for third on the NBA's all-time wins list.

Why it matters

Popovich's climb up the NBA's career wins list is a testament to his longevity and success as one of the league's most respected coaches. Reaching this milestone cements his legacy as one of the greatest coaches in NBA history.

The details

DeRozan led the way for the Spurs with an impressive stat line, while Popovich earned his 1,221st career victory, tying him with Hall of Famer Jerry Sloan for third on the NBA's all-time wins list. Popovich has been the head coach of the Spurs since 1996 and has led the team to five NBA championships.

  • The game took place on Monday, April 15, 2026.
  • Popovich earned his 1,221st career win, tying him with Jerry Sloan for third on the NBA's all-time wins list.

The players

DeMar DeRozan

A veteran forward for the San Antonio Spurs who led the team with 26 points, 9 assists and 7 rebounds in the win over the Pistons.

Gregg Popovich

The long-time head coach of the San Antonio Spurs, who earned his 1,221st career victory, tying him with Jerry Sloan for third on the NBA's all-time wins list.

Jerry Sloan

A Hall of Fame NBA coach who is tied with Gregg Popovich for third on the NBA's all-time wins list with 1,221 career victories.

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What they’re saying

“Popovich's longevity and success as one of the league's most respected coaches is truly remarkable.”

— NBA Analyst

What’s next

Popovich will have a chance to break the tie with Sloan and move into sole possession of third place on the NBA's all-time wins list in the Spurs' next game.

The takeaway

Gregg Popovich's latest milestone is a testament to his legendary coaching career and cements his status as one of the greatest NBA coaches of all time. His ability to sustain success over such a long period is truly remarkable.