Steve Kerr Wears ‘Thanks Pop’ Shirt at Warriors Presser: What It Means

On May 3, 2025, Steve Kerr, the Golden State Warriors’ head coach, stepped into the spotlight before Game 6 of the NBA playoffs against the Houston Rockets wearing a simple yet powerful statement: a T-shirt emblazoned with “Thanks, Pop!” and an image of Gregg Popovich, the legendary San Antonio Spurs coach. This wasn’t just a fashion choice – it was a heartfelt tribute to a mentor, a friend, and one of the most influential figures in basketball history. Here’s why Kerr’s gesture resonates far beyond the court.

Steve Kerr Wears ‘Thanks Pop’ Shirt – A Nod to a Legend

Gregg Popovich, affectionately known as “Pop,” announced his transition from head coach to president of basketball operations for the Spurs earlier this season, following a mild stroke in November 2024. The move marked the end of an era for the coach who led San Antonio to five NBA championships, amassed 1,422 regular-season wins, and shaped countless careers—including Kerr’s. Popovich’s decision prompted an outpouring of gratitude across the NBA, with Kerr’s T-shirt becoming a poignant symbol of that appreciation.

Kerr, who played under Popovich for four seasons with the Spurs and later served as his assistant coach for Team USA at the 2020 Olympics, didn’t hold back his emotions. “He’s one of the most important people in my life,” Kerr said during the press conference, a smile breaking through as he admitted Popovich might jokingly “kill” him for wearing the shirt. The lighthearted moment underscored a deep bond, one forged through years of shared triumphs and mutual respect.

Steve Kerr Thanks Pop Shirt – More Than a T-Shirt

The “Thanks, Pop!” shirt wasn’t just Kerr’s idea – it’s part of a broader movement within the NBA to honor Popovich’s legacy. Houston Rockets coach Ime Udoka also donned the same shirt, signaling the widespread admiration for Popovich’s contributions. From his innovative coaching strategies to his outspoken advocacy for social justice, Popovich has left an indelible mark on the sport and its community. Kerr’s choice to wear the shirt in such a high-stakes moment – a playoff game with the Warriors’ season on the line – amplified its significance, turning a press conference into a platform for gratitude.

For Kerr, the gesture was personal. Popovich gave him a second chance in the NBA when he signed him in 1998, helping him win two championships as a player. Later, as a coach, Kerr drew inspiration from Popovich’s emphasis on culture, teamwork, and authenticity. “He taught me how to lead with heart,” Kerr has said in past interviews, a lesson that’s evident in his own successful tenure with the Warriors, where he’s won four NBA titles.

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Why It Matters

In an era where sports narratives often focus on rivalries or stats, Kerr’s “Thanks, Pop!” shirt reminds us of the human side of basketball. It’s a testament to the power of mentorship and the enduring impact of those who shape the game behind the scenes. Popovich’s influence extends beyond X’s and O’s – he’s a cultural force, known for encouraging players and coaches to speak out on issues like racial equality and political accountability. Kerr, who’s never shied away from similar advocacy, is a direct beneficiary of that ethos.

A Lasting Legacy

As the Warriors fought to keep their playoff hopes alive, Kerr’s tribute added emotional weight to the night. Whether or not Golden State advanced, the image of Kerr in that “Thanks, Pop!” shirt will linger as a reminder of what makes sports special: connection, gratitude, and the ability to honor those who pave the way. Popovich may no longer pace the sidelines, but his influence endures – on Kerr, on the Spurs, and on the NBA as a whole.

So, here’s to Pop, the coach who changed the game, and to Kerr, who made sure we all remembered it.