San Antonio – The basketball world turned its attention to Bexar County, Texas, on Sept. 16, when Gregg Popovich, the 77‑year‑old Hall of Fame coach who guided the Spurs to five NBA championships, married Mary Barth Budenholzer. The marriage license filed in the county confirms the ceremony, which was reported by TMZ and later confirmed by Field Level Media.
Local roots, national fame
Popovich, long‑time resident of San Antonio, has been a fixture in the community for more than three decades. After missing much of the 2024‑25 season due to health concerns, he stepped away from the bench and assumed the role of president of basketball operations for the Spurs, overseeing player personnel, scouting, and long‑term strategy. His new marriage adds a personal milestone to a career already defined by record‑setting wins and a reputation for integrity.
Who is Mary Barth Budenholzer?
Mary Barth Budenholzer, the former wife of former Spurs assistant coach Mike Budenholzer, is now the bride. Budenholzer served under Popovich from 1996 to 2013 before launching a successful head‑coaching career that included an NBA championship with the Milwaukee Bucks in 2021. While the couple’s previous marriage ended in divorce, Mary Barth’s connection to the Spurs organization remains strong, and her marriage to Popovich underscores the close‑knit nature of the franchise’s leadership circle.
A life of partnership and loss
Popovich was previously married to Erin Popovich for 42 years until her passing on April 18, 2018. The loss was deeply felt by the Spurs family and the broader San Antonio community, which rallied around the coach during his period of mourning. His remarriage signals a hopeful new chapter, both personally and professionally, as he continues to shape the Spurs’ future from the front office.
Impact on the Spurs and the community
While the marriage itself does not alter any team operations, it reflects Popovich’s enduring ties to the San Antonio area. The Spurs have long been a source of civic pride, contributing to local charities, youth programs, and economic activity. Popovich’s continued presence in the city—now as a husband and senior executive—reinforces the franchise’s commitment to the community.
What’s next for Popovich?
As president of basketball operations, Popovich will oversee the Spurs’ roster construction, draft strategy, and overall competitive direction. His experience, combined with a fresh personal outlook, may influence the organization’s long‑term planning, especially as the team seeks to return to playoff contention. Fans and local business leaders alike watch closely, hopeful that his leadership will translate into on‑court success and continued community engagement.
Community response
Local residents and Spurs supporters have expressed congratulations on social media, highlighting Popovich’s status as a beloved figure in San Antonio. Many noted his dedication to family values and his role as a mentor to younger coaches and players. The marriage also serves as a reminder of the human side of sports figures, whose personal lives often intersect with the communities they serve.
Overall, the union of Gregg Popovich and Mary Barth Budenholzer adds a personal milestone to the storied career of one of basketball’s most respected leaders, while reinforcing the deep ties between the Spurs organization and the Bexar County community.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
