SAN ANTONIO — On Monday, San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich revealed his intention to return to coaching following a stroke he experienced earlier in November. This marked his first public comments since the incident.
Popovich, who holds the record for the highest number of wins in NBA coaching history, expressed his gratitude through an official statement from the Spurs organization, acknowledging the overwhelming support he has received during his recovery process. The Spurs confirmed that Popovich suffered what they referred to as a mild stroke shortly before the team’s home game against Minnesota on November 2, approximately two and a half hours before tip-off.
While no specific timeline has been established for his return, medical professionals expect Popovich to fully recover. “This has certainly been an unexpected six weeks for my family and me,” Popovich shared. “As we work together on my recovery, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt thanks for the remarkable support we’ve received during this period.
“Although I wish I could reply personally to each one of you, please know that my family and I are deeply appreciative. We are grateful for our incredible community, the entire Spurs organization, and our loved ones.”
At 75 years old, Popovich has led the Spurs to five NBA championships and was instrumental in guiding Team USA to a gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021. This season marks his 29th year as the Spurs’ head coach.
The stroke occurred at the Spurs’ arena, allowing for immediate medical assistance thanks to the presence of rescue workers on site. He was swiftly taken to a nearby hospital for further treatment.
Details about any ongoing challenges he might face as a result of the stroke have not been disclosed, and the duration of his rehabilitation remains uncertain. In his absence, longtime Spurs assistant Mitch Johnson has taken on the role of acting head coach.
“Mitch has done an incredible job,” remarked Orlando coach Jamahl Mosley earlier this month acknowledging Johnson’s efforts.
Known for his self-deprecating humor, Popovich mentioned that those aiding his rehabilitation are eager for him to get back to work, indicating his struggle with being a patient patient. “No one is more excited to see me return to the bench than the talented individuals who have been facilitating my rehabilitation,” he noted. “They’ve quickly realized that I’m far from being easy to coach.”
With an impressive career, Popovich is one of only three coaches to have won the NBA Coach of the Year Award three times, joining the ranks of Don Nelson and Pat Riley. He is also among just five coaches to have claimed at least five NBA titles; the others being Phil Jackson (11), Red Auerbach (nine), John Kundla (five), and Riley (five).
Popovich’s journey with the Spurs spans nearly 35 years. Starting as an assistant coach from 1988-1992, he returned to the franchise on May 31, 1994, to take on the roles of executive vice president of basketball operations and general manager. Shortly after, he dismissed head coach Bob Hill and appointed himself as the head coach on December 10, 1996. Since that time, he has consistently served as the team’s leader.
“We look forward to the day when we can welcome him back,” stated Spurs general manager Brian Wright last month, echoing the sentiments of many who are eager for Popovich’s return to the sideline.