San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg
Popovich remains on the sidelines following a mild stroke he suffered on
November 2, ahead of a game against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
The 75-year-old Hall of Famer, widely regarded as one
of the greatest coaches in NBA history, has led the franchise since the 1996-97
season, amassing a league-record 1,412 regular-season wins, 170 postseason
victories, and five NBA championships.
Despite the health scare, sources close to the
organization say Popovich has expressed his desire to return to coaching next
season. The franchise has allowed him the space to prioritize his recovery,
while continuing preparations for the offseason under the guidance of assistant
coach Mitch Johnson.
Johnson took over interim coaching duties following
Popovich’s absence, guiding the team to a 31-45 finish. As the season
progressed, the Spurs were dealt further setbacks, including a season-ending
diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis in the right shoulder of star rookie Victor
Wembanyama shortly after the All-Star break. The team also lost newly acquired
guard De’Aaron Fox, who missed the final 18 games due to surgery on a fractured
left pinkie finger.
With Popovich’s long-term status still uncertain,
Johnson emphasized the collective approach the organization is taking moving
forward. “This organization is still prioritizing Pop’s health,” Johnson said
after the Spurs’ season finale on April 13. “We really put together that plan
as a group… What I’m doing this spring won’t be what I did eight years ago, but
the player development has been at the forefront since I’ve been here.”
Popovich, who signed a five-year contract extension in
2023, remains under contract through the 2027-28 season. The organization is
reportedly leaving the decision to return entirely in his hands, trusting in
his judgment and recovery timeline.
In the meantime, players and staff remain supportive.
“I trust the organization,” said Wembanyama. “I trust Pop to do all he can to
come back and get his energy back. I also trust Mitch to grow into that role…
I’m ready for anything.”
Popovich made an emotional visit to the team on
February 27 and released a statement confirming he would not return for the
remainder of the season but remains hopeful of resuming his coaching duties in
the future.
Popovich’s illustrious career places him among elite
company, alongside Don Nelson and Pat Riley as one of only three coaches to win
NBA Coach of the Year three times. He is also one of just five coaches to have
claimed at least five NBA titles, joining the ranks of Phil Jackson, Red
Auerbach, John Kundla, and Riley.
As the Spurs navigate a pivotal offseason, all eyes
will remain on Popovich’s recovery—and whether he’ll return to the bench for
what would be his 30th season high with the franchise.
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