San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich, who suffered a mild stroke in November 2024, has announced he will not return for the remainder of the 2024-25 NBA season. Despite this setback, Popovich, 76, remains hopeful about resuming his coaching duties in the future.
The Spurs organization has expressed unwavering support for Popovich, emphasizing that the decision to return rests solely with him. A team representative stated, “It’s Pop’s decision. He’s earned that.”
During Popovich’s absence, assistant coach Mitch Johnson has assumed head coaching responsibilities, guiding the team through a challenging season marked by injuries, including All-Star center Victor Wembanyama’s season-ending blood clot in his shoulder.
Popovich, who signed a five-year contract extension in 2023, continues to focus on his recovery while maintaining regular communication with the team. The Spurs face an uncertain offseason, with no definitive timeline for Popovich’s return.
As the NBA’s all-time leader in coaching wins, Popovich’s potential return would be a significant boost for the Spurs. The organization and fans alike remain optimistic about his recovery and eventual return to the sidelines.
