Gregg Popovich will not return as head coach of the San Antonio Spurs this season following a stroke he suffered earlier in the year.
NBA insider Shams Charania reported that Popovich held an emotional meeting with his team on Thursday morning, which has raised further questions about the future of the 76-year-old coach.
As reported by OutKick’s Mark Harris, Popovich experienced a “mild stroke” on November 2, 2024, while at the Frost Bank Center.
In a statement released Thursday, Popovich expressed his gratitude to the Spurs organization, with whom he has spent 29 years. He also mentioned that he will be focusing on his health going forward.
The statement read, “I’ve decided not to return to the sidelines this season. Mitch Johnson and his staff have done a wonderful job, and the resolve and professionalism the players have shown…has been outstanding. I will continue to focus on my health with the hope that I can return to coaching in the future.”
Popovich stepped away from coaching after just five games this season. He holds the record as the NBA’s all-time winningest coach, with a career record of 1,412-851.
In his absence, 38-year-old assistant coach Mitch Johnson has taken over, leading the Spurs, who currently sit at 24-33 and 13th in the Western Conference.
Wishing Popovich a speedy recovery.
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