Gregg Popovich Leaves San Antonio Spurs After 29 Years
Gregg Popovich Steps Down as Spurs coach, Transitions to Team President
SAN ANTONIO (AP) — After a remarkable 29-year tenure, Gregg Popovich is stepping down as head coach of the San Antonio Spurs. The announcement, made Friday, marks the end of an era for the NBA’s all-time winningest coach. However, Popovich, 76, will not be leaving the organization entirely; he will transition into the role of team president, maintaining a significant influence on the franchise’s future.
Popovich Reflects on His Tenure
In a statement released by the Spurs, popovich expressed gratitude for his time on the sidelines. “Although my love and my passion for the game remain, I decided that it was time to leave my post as main coach,” he said. “I will be eternally grateful to the splendid players, coaches, staff and supporters who allowed me to serve them as the main coach of the Spurs, and I am delighted to have the possibility to continue to support the organization, the community and the city that count so much for me.”
Popovich’s departure from the coaching role follows a season where he briefly stepped away due to health concerns. He suffered what was described as a mild stroke in November and his premature season end was announced in February.The Spurs finished the 2024-2025 season with a 13th-place standing in the Western Conference, despite the presence of promising players like Victor Wembanyama.
A Legacy of Success
Peter john Holt, the Spurs owner, lauded Popovich’s profound impact. “The remarkable impact of Pop coach on our family, San Antonio, Spurs and basketball is deep,” Holt said. “His distinctions and awards do not do justice to the impact he had on so many people. He is a person, a leader and a truly unique coach. Our whole family, as well as supporters around the world, are grateful to him for his remarkable 29 years at the head of the San Antonio Spurs.”
Popovich’s resume includes five NBA championships and a gold medal at the Olympic Games. He has also been named NBA coach of the year three times. His 1,422 regular-season victories and 170 playoff wins stand as a testament to his enduring success and influence.
Mitch Johnson to Take the Helm
Mitch Johnson, who served as interim coach during Popovich’s absence, will be promoted to head coach. Johnson’s promotion was revealed by his agency, Klutch Sports Group. Johnson has been with the Spurs for a decade and has already worked with the team’s young core, including Wembanyama, Aaron Fox, and Stephon Castle.
Gregg Popovich: Transitioning from Spurs Coach to Team President – Your Q&A Guide
Why Did Gregg Popovich Step Down as Head Coach of the San Antonio Spurs?
Gregg Popovich, the all-time winningest coach in NBA history, is stepping down after an notable 29-year run as head coach of the San Antonio Spurs. This decision, announced on Friday, marks the end of a coaching era. Though, heS not leaving the institution entirely. Popovich is transitioning into the role of team president.
Will Gregg Popovich Be Leaving the San Antonio Spurs?
No, Popovich will not be leaving the Spurs. He’s transitioning to the role of team president, which means he’ll still have a significant influence on the franchise’s future.
What Role Will Gregg Popovich Have with the Spurs as Team President?
The provided article states that Popovich will maintain a significant influence on the franchise’s future as team president. This role typically involves high-level decision-making and oversight of the team’s direction.
When Did Gregg Popovich’s Coaching Tenure with the Spurs Begin and End?
Gregg Popovich served as head coach of the San Antonio Spurs for 29 years. The specific start and end dates aren’t included in the provided text, but the proclamation was made on a Friday.
What does Gregg Popovich Say About His Time as Head Coach?
Popovich expressed gratitude for his time as coach, stating, “although my love and my passion for the game remain, I decided that it was time to leave my post as main coach.” He also expressed gratitude towards the players, coaches, staff, and supporters. He’s pleased to continue supporting the organization, community, and city.
What Health Issues Did Gregg Popovich Face?
Popovich briefly stepped away from coaching during the 2024-2025 season due to health concerns. He suffered what was described as a mild stroke in November.His premature season end was announced in February.
How Did the Spurs perform in the 2024-2025 Season?
The Spurs finished the 2024-2025 season in 13th place in the Western Conference.
What Are Some of Gregg Popovich’s Greatest achievements?
Popovich has an impressive resume:
Five NBA championships
A gold medal at the Olympic Games
* Three-time NBA Coach of the Year
His regular-season victories (1,422) and playoff wins (170) demonstrate his enduring success.
What Did the Spurs Owner, Peter john Holt, Say About Popovich?
Peter John Holt, the Spurs’ owner, lauded Popovich’s profound impact. Holt saeid, “His distinctions and awards do not do justice to the impact he had on so many people. He is a person, a leader and a truly unique coach.” He also stated his family and supporters worldwide are grateful for his remarkable 29 years with the Spurs.
Who Will Replace Gregg Popovich as Head Coach?
Mitch Johnson, who served as interim coach during Popovich’s absence, will be promoted to head coach.
How Long Has Mitch Johnson Been with the Spurs?
Mitch Johnson has been with the Spurs for a decade.
Who Are Some of the Young Players Mitch johnson Has Worked With?
Mitch Johnson has worked with the team’s young core, including Victor Wembanyama, Aaron Fox, and Stephon Castle.
Key Stats of Gregg Popovich
| Category | Statistic |
| ———————— | ——— |
| Years as Head Coach | 29 |
| Regular Season Wins | 1,422 |
| Playoff Wins | 170 |
| NBA Championships | 5 |
| Olympic Gold Medal | 1 |
| NBA Coach of the Year | 3 |