**Spurs Name Mitch Johnson as New Head Coach After Popovich’s Departure**
The San Antonio Spurs have officially announced the promotion of Mitch Johnson to head coach, marking a significant change for the franchise as Gregg Popovich steps down after nearly three decades in the role. This transition comes as Popovich shifts to a full-time position as the team’s president of basketball operations, a role he has held since 1994.
Mitch Johnson has been with the Spurs organization for nine years, starting with the G League affiliate in Austin, Texas, in 2016. He has served as an assistant coach for the Spurs since 2019 and led the team during the NBA Summer League in both 2022 and 2023. Notably, Johnson filled in for Popovich during 77 games in the 2024-25 season while Popovich recovered from a mild stroke.
In a statement, Popovich expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to coach the Spurs, stating, “While my love and passion for the game remain, I’ve decided it’s time to step away as head coach. I’m forever grateful to the wonderful players, coaches, staff, and fans who allowed me to serve them as the Spurs head coach and am excited for the opportunity to continue to support the organization, community, and city that are so meaningful to me.”
Johnson will be formally introduced as head coach on Monday in San Antonio. Reflecting on his journey, he remarked, “When I took the opportunity to join the Austin Spurs over nine years ago, I had no idea that opportunity was in front of me. It’s sometimes funny how your journey takes you, and sometimes the biggest moments can come from the least likely spots.”
Spurs managing partner Peter J. Holt expressed confidence in Johnson’s leadership, stating, “We are thrilled for Mitch Johnson to be our next head coach. Throughout his decade in the organization, we have seen that Mitch has the right values, poise, and potential to lead us into the future.”
Star player Victor Wembanyama also voiced his support for Johnson, saying, “I trust the organization… and I also trust Mitch to grow into that role. So, I think we are in good hands.”
Johnson, a former four-year starter at Stanford, has experience playing in the G League and overseas. He expressed his gratitude for the opportunity, stating, “I am truly grateful and honored to receive this incredible opportunity. I promise to give this responsibility everything I have to make Spurs fans proud.”
As the Spurs embark on this new chapter, the organization looks forward to building on its rich legacy under Johnson’s leadership.
**FAQ**
**Who is the new head coach of the San Antonio Spurs?**
Mitch Johnson has been promoted to head coach of the San Antonio Spurs, succeeding Gregg Popovich, who has transitioned to president of basketball operations.
