San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich experienced a “mild stroke” in November and has not returned to coaching since. At 76 years old, he is not expected to be back on the bench for the remainder of the season. Popovich missed six games earlier this season before the team confirmed his health issue, having coached the first five games of the season.
Reports indicate that Popovich’s future remains uncertain as he continues his recovery. In December, he expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support he and his family have received during this challenging time. “This has certainly been an unexpected six weeks for my family and me,” he stated. “As we work together on my recovery, I want to take a moment to share that the outpouring of support we’ve received during this time has been truly overwhelming in the best possible way. While I wish I could get back to each one of you, for now, let me say that my family and I are forever grateful.”
Initially, Popovich had not dismissed the possibility of returning, humorously noting, “No one is more excited to see me return to the bench than the talented individuals who have been leading my rehabilitation process. They’ve quickly learned that I’m less coachable.” The Spurs organization has indicated that he is expected to make a full recovery, with Mitch Johnson stepping in as the acting head coach during Popovich’s absence.
This news follows the recent announcement that rookie Victor Wembanyama will miss the rest of the season due to a blood clot in his shoulder. Popovich holds the record for the most career wins in NBA history with 1,401 victories, along with 170 postseason wins and five NBA championships, all achieved during his 29 seasons with the Spurs.
