Gregg Popovich Speaks Out After Medical Scare—His Surprising Plans for the Future Revealed!
San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich, the NBA’s all-time wins leader, expressed his determination to return to coaching in his first public statement since suffering a mild stroke in early November. The 75-year-old coaching legend shared gratitude for the overwhelming support he’s received and emphasized his commitment to recovery. Popovich’s Health Update and Road […]
San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich, the NBA’s all-time wins leader, expressed his determination to return to coaching in his first public statement since suffering a mild stroke in early November. The 75-year-old coaching legend shared gratitude for the overwhelming support he’s received and emphasized his commitment to recovery.
Popovich’s Health Update and Road to Recovery
Popovich suffered a stroke approximately 2 1/2 hours before the Spurs’ home game against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Nov. 2. Thanks to the quick response of on-site medical professionals, he was transported to a nearby hospital and received immediate treatment.
While no specific timeline has been set for his return, the Spurs remain optimistic, stating that doctors expect him to make a full recovery. Popovich acknowledged the challenges of the past six weeks but maintained a positive outlook.
“This has certainly been an unexpected six weeks for my family and me,” Popovich shared in a team-issued statement. “The outpouring of support we’ve received during this time has been truly overwhelming in the best possible way.”
He extended heartfelt thanks to the Spurs organization, friends, and the San Antonio community, saying, “We’re forever grateful.”
Temporary Leadership on the Sideline
During Popovich’s absence, longtime Spurs assistant Mitch Johnson has served as acting head coach. His leadership has earned praise from colleagues around the league, including Orlando Magic head coach Jamahl Mosley, who commended Johnson’s performance earlier this month.
Popovich, in his signature self-deprecating style, humorously credited his rehabilitation team for their patience.
“No one is more excited to see me return to the bench than the talented individuals leading my rehabilitation process,” Popovich jokes. “They’ve quickly learned that I’m less than coachable.”
A Storied Legacy in the NBA
Popovich’s NBA career is legendary. He has led the Spurs to five NBA championships and coached Team USA to a gold medal at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. He is currently in his 29th season with the Spurs, making him one of the longest-serving coaches in NBA history.
His accolades include three NBA Coach of the Year awards, a feat matched only by Don Nelson and Pat Riley. Popovich also belongs to an elite group of coaches with at least five NBA titles, joining Phil Jackson (11), Red Auerbach (9), John Kundla (5), and Riley (5).
Decades of Dedication to the Spurs
Popovich’s history with the Spurs dates back nearly 35 years. He first served as an assistant coach from 1988 to 1992. After a brief departure, he returned on May 31, 1994, as the team’s executive vice president for basketball operations and general manager. In December 1996, he appointed himself head coach after firing Bob Hill—a decision that laid the foundation for one of the most successful coaching careers in NBA history.
“We look forward to the day that we can welcome him back,” Spurs general manager Brian Wright said last month.
Looking Ahead
As Popovich continues his recovery, the Spurs organization and the broader NBA community remain hopeful for his return. With a legacy that spans nearly three decades and a career defined by resilience and leadership, fans and players alike eagerly await the day he’s back on the sidelines—coaching, inspiring, and perhaps keeping his rehab team on their toes just a little longer.
