As the Denver Nuggets face off against the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference playoffs, NBA owner Stan Kroenke likely enjoys the game with a glass of wine in hand. This connection between professional basketball and wine is not just a passing trend but an evolving relationship that has seen many players, past and present, embracing the world of wine. From owning vineyards to cultivating a refined appreciation for wine, basketball and fine wine have found a unique synergy.
LeBron James, for instance, garnered attention when a viral social media post showed him sipping Opus One at a Cavaliers-Celtics playoff game. Meanwhile, the NBA and WNBA formalized their ties to the wine industry in 2024 by naming Kendall-Jackson Winery and La Crema as the official wines for each league, respectively. This partnership is just the latest chapter in a growing bond between the sport and the wine industry.
In the midst of these developments, the announcement of Gregg Popovich’s transition from coach to full-time president of the San Antonio Spurs provides a moment to reflect on the role wine played in his legendary career. Known for his love of fine wine, Popovich frequently shared this passion with his players during team dinners, using wine as a tool to build camaraderie and trust. Over a 29-year coaching career, Popovich led the Spurs to 1,422 wins and five NBA championships, retiring as the winningest coach in NBA history.
Popovich’s passion for wine dates back to his time stationed at the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, where he first explored California cabernets. His subsequent tenure in Germany further expanded his palate to include riesling. By the time he became the head coach of the Spurs in 1996, Popovich had developed a deep appreciation for wine, amassing a personal collection of over 3,000 bottles. In interviews, he has humorously described his fears of his children mishandling his prized wines, a sentiment that echoes his deep emotional connection to his collection.
A 2006 Wine Spectator interview revealed Popovich’s extensive wine knowledge and his commitment to aging the finest bottles, including verticals of Ridge Monte Bello and Château Pétrus. He spoke fondly of wines like Château d’Yquem, remarking, “Whether it’s ready or not, the Yquem is going to get drunk (by me). Those bottles will not be passed on!”
Popovich’s influence extended beyond his personal collection. As reported by ESPN’s Baxter Holmes in 2019, Popovich hosted team dinners in every NBA city, selecting wines from local restaurants’ wine lists and fostering a family-like atmosphere among his players. These dinners were a place for players to relax, discuss life, and learn about wine, with Popovich serving as both coach and mentor. His leadership, both on the court and off, built a legacy that will resonate for years to come.
As Popovich steps away from the sidelines, he leaves behind a lasting impact on both basketball and the wine community. For those fortunate enough to attend the Food & Wine Classic in Aspen, there’s a chance to sample wines produced by former and current NBA stars, including Dwyane Wade (Wade Cellars), CJ McCollum (McCollum Heritage 91), and Carmelo Anthony (Seventh Estate). Even former NBA champion Channing Frye, who has cited Popovich as an inspiration, brings his Chosen Family Wines to the event.
Beyond Popovich, another figure in the NBA’s wine circle is Stan Kroenke, whose wine collection rivals his extensive portfolio of sports teams, including the Denver Nuggets, Colorado Avalanche, Los Angeles Rams, and Arsenal. Kroenke’s winery holdings include some of Napa’s most prestigious wines, such as Screaming Eagle, alongside other notable labels from California’s Central Coast and Burgundy’s Grand Cru vineyards.
As the Nuggets continue their playoff journey, it is fitting to raise a glass in celebration of the game, its players, and those like Coach Popovich, whose love of wine has left an indelible mark on both the NBA and the world of fine wines.
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