San Antonio Spurs‘ legendary head coach Gregg Popovich is not expected to return to the team this season, according to league sources. This news comes as a significant blow to the Spurs, who are already grappling with the loss of their franchise superstar, Victor Wembanyama, due to a deep vein thrombosis in his right shoulder.

Popovich’s absence is a result of a mild stroke he suffered in November. Since then, he has been out indefinitely, and his future with the team remains uncertain. The Spurs’ current record of 24-30 leaves little reason to continue competing this season, further complicating their situation.

San Antonio Spurs’ Hall of Fame coach Gregg Popovich is not expected to return this season, and his future is uncertain as he recovers from a mild stroke suffered in November, league sources tell ESPN.

— Shams Charania

This is the second piece of brutal news this week for the Spurs. They are still reeling from losing franchise superstar Victor Wembanyama for the season due to deep vein thrombosis in his right shoulder. San Antonio’s record currently sits at 24-30, and they have little reason to continue competing this season.

In a recent tweet, Shams Charania also reported that Popovich and Wembanyama have been in close contact during the week. This communication highlights the strong bond between the coach and his star player, even in the face of adversity.

Updates on Popovich’s condition have been sporadic at best. He didn’t release a personal statement until December, and Spurs CEO R.C. Buford said last month he was “attacking” his rehab. At no point has a timetable been laid out.

He didn’t release a personal statement until December.

Spurs CEO R.C. Buford said last month he was “attacking” his rehab.

At 76 years old and in his 29th season as the Spurs’ head coach, Popovich is both the oldest and longest-tenured head coach in the NBA. He is the NBA’s all-time wins leader among coaches, a five-time NBA champion, a three-time NBA Coach of the Year, and was inducted into the Naismith Hall of Fame in 2023. He already has one of the most decorated résumés of any coach in history, but many are hoping to see if he can build another contender with Wembanyama and recent trade acquisition De’Aaron Fox.

With Popovich out, his assistant Mitch Johnson was catapulted into interim head coaching duties and has so far drawn strong reviews. At 38 years old, it’s conceivable he has established himself as Popovich’s successor whenever that’s needed, though it’s clear nothing is certain here.

Mitch Johnson has so far drawn strong reviews.

It’s conceivable he has established himself as Popovich’s successor whenever that’s needed, though it’s clear nothing is certain here.

Johnson’s interim role has been a mixed bag. While he has shown potential, the team’s performance has been inconsistent. This inconsistency raises questions about the team’s long-term strategy and the potential for a smooth transition if Popovich decides to retire or step down.

One potential counterargument is that the Spurs’ struggles this season are not solely due to Popovich’s absence. The team has faced numerous injuries and setbacks, including Wembanyama’s deep vein thrombosis. However, Popovich’s leadership and strategic acumen have been instrumental in the team’s past successes, and his absence is undoubtedly felt.

Looking ahead, the Spurs will need to navigate this challenging season while also planning for the future. The team’s front office will likely focus on rebuilding and developing young talent, with an eye toward returning to championship contention. The acquisition of De’Aaron Fox and the continued development of players like Keldon Johnson and Tre Jones will be crucial in this effort.

The Spurs’ situation serves as a reminder of the importance of leadership and continuity in professional sports. Popovich’s legacy is one of sustained excellence and innovation, and his absence leaves a significant void. As the team moves forward, they will need to find a way to honor his contributions while also forging a new path.

For fans and analysts alike, the question remains: Can the Spurs rebuild without Popovich? The answer will depend on a variety of factors, including the team’s ability to adapt to new leadership, the development of young talent, and the strategic decisions made by the front office. Only time will tell how this story unfolds, but one thing is certain: the Spurs will face significant challenges in the coming years.