SAN ANTONIO — Gregg Popovich, the head coach of the San Antonio Spurs, is currently on an indefinite leave due to health issues.
The Spurs confirmed that Popovich did not accompany the team on their road games against the Los Angeles Clippers on Monday and the Houston Rockets on Wednesday. They are set to play against the Portland Trail Blazers at home on Thursday.
During Popovich’s time away, Mitch Johnson has been appointed as the interim head coach.
Johnson was notified about two and a half hours before Saturday’s game against the Minnesota Timberwolves that the 75-year-old coach would not be participating because of an undisclosed illness.
“He’s not feeling well,” Johnson stated. “This is not the first time we’ve faced a situation like this. It’s important for everyone to be ready when called upon. We’ve dealt with injuries before, and sometimes unexpected health issues arise. Right now, he simply isn’t feeling well.”
This is the third occasion that Johnson has taken on head coaching duties in Popovich’s absence. Other former assistant coaches, like Tim Duncan and Becky Hammon, have also stepped in when Popovich was unable to coach due to illness or medical conditions over the past five seasons.
On Saturday, the Spurs managed to secure a victory against the Timberwolves, finishing with a score of 113-103.
Popovich holds the record for the most wins in NBA history, amassing a total of 1,390 regular-season victories along with another 170 in the postseason. He has led the Spurs to five NBA championships and is currently in his 29th season with the franchise.