Gregg Popovich will no longer serve as head coach of the San Antonio Spurs and will transition to a full time role as Team President. Popovich suffered a mild stroke at the beginning of the 24-25 season and Mitch Johnson served as interim head coach for the remainder of the season.
“While my love and passion for the game remain, I’ve decided it’s time to step away as head coach,” said Popovich. “I’m forever grateful to the wonderful players, coaches, staff and fans who allowed me to serve them as the Spurs head coach and am excited for the opportunity to continue to support the organization, community and city that are so meaningful to me.”
Popovich won five NBA championships as head coach and is the all-time winningest head coach. Popovich assumed head coaching duties for the Spurs in 1996.
“Coach Pop’s extraordinary impact on our family, San Antonio, the Spurs and the game of basketball is profound,” said Spurs Managing Partner Peter J. Holt. “His accolades and awards don’t do justice to the impact he has had on so many people. He is truly one-of-one as a person, leader and coach. Our entire family, alongside fans from across the globe, are grateful for his remarkable 29-year run as the head coach of the San Antonio Spurs.”
Popovich has long run the Spurs’ front office as head coach alongside RC Buford and Brian Wright. Popovich has been involved throughout the Spurs’ offseason and will continue to be a vital member of the franchise’s day-to-day operations.
Popovich has been making progress in his recovery from the November stroke, but he came to the conclusion that he could no longer continue with the physical rigors of being on the sidelines.
Popovich was hospitalized on April 15th after a medical incident at a restaurant in San Antonio. Popovich returned home in the days after and has been feeling better.
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