A monumental shift rocked the basketball world as Gregg Popovich, the iconic San Antonio Spurs coach, stepped down after 29 seasons. At 76, Popovich faced health challenges, including a mild stroke in November 2024, which sidelined him for much of the season. The Spurs confirmed his transition to president of basketball operations last Friday. Mitch Johnson, the interim coach, was named the new head coach, marking the end of an era for the franchise.
Popovich, the NBA’s all-time winningest coach with 1,422 regular-season victories, leaves an unmatched legacy. He guided the Spurs to five NBA championships and built a dynasty with stars like Tim Duncan, David Robinson, Manu Ginobili, and Tony Parker. The move comes as the Spurs focus on rebuilding around young phenom Victor Wembanyama.
BREAKING: Gregg Popovich will no longer coach the Spurs and is transitioning full-time to Team President, per @ShamsCharania pic.twitter.com/BPplkal2eP
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) May 2, 2025
- Unrivaled legacy: Popovich holds the record for most coaching wins in NBA history.
- Championship pedigree: Secured five titles (1999, 2003, 2005, 2007, 2014).
- Global influence: Led Team USA to Olympic gold in Tokyo, 2020.
- Planned succession: Endorsed Mitch Johnson as his replacement.
Tributes pour in
The announcement sparked an outpouring of tributes from players, coaches, and NBA executives. Peter J. Holt, the Spurs’ managing partner, praised Popovich’s impact on the franchise and San Antonio. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver called him “one of the greatest coaches ever.”
Players like Chris Paul, who played under Popovich in the 2024-25 season, expressed gratitude for his mentorship. Paul said joining the Spurs was driven by the chance to work with Popovich. Former players like Manu Ginobili highlighted his role as a mentor who prioritized team unity.
Popovich’s shift to an executive role ensures his continued influence. He will work closely with CEO RC Buford and general manager Brian Wright. The selection of Johnson as head coach reflects Popovich’s trust in preserving the Spurs’ culture, built over nearly three decades.
A legendary career
Popovich joined the Spurs in 1988 as an assistant under Larry Brown. After a stint with the Golden State Warriors, he returned in 1994 as general manager. In 1996, he took over as head coach after firing Bob Hill, launching one of the most storied careers in American sports. His first full season in 1997-98 began a 22-year streak of winning records, an NBA record.
- First championship: In 1999, led the Spurs to a title with David Robinson and Tim Duncan.
- Dynasty era: Won three titles between 2003 and 2007 with Duncan, Parker, and Ginobili.
- Final triumph: Defeated LeBron James’ Miami Heat in the 2014 Finals.
- Historic milestone: Surpassed Don Nelson with 1,422 wins.
Popovich’s innovative strategies reshaped the game. He pioneered the corner three-point shot as a defensive focus, a tactic now central to modern basketball. He also introduced “load management,” resting players to maintain health, a practice that sparked debate but became standard in the NBA.
Health concerns drive change
A mild stroke on November 2, 2024, at Frost Bank Center before a game against the Minnesota Timberwolves changed everything. Popovich was rushed to a hospital, and Mitch Johnson stepped in. Popovich coached only five games that season. In April 2025, another health scare at a San Antonio restaurant underscored the need for a less demanding role.
Despite hopes of returning in December 2024, Popovich’s recovery proved challenging. He stayed engaged, offering guidance via phone, especially during the Spurs’ games in Paris, Victor Wembanyama’s hometown. His health stabilized, but the physical toll of coaching at 76 prompted the shift to president of basketball operations, a role he has held since 1994.
The transition allows Popovich to remain active without the grueling demands of coaching. He has been seen at the Spurs’ facilities, signaling his intent to stay involved strategically.
Mitch Johnson takes charge
Mitch Johnson, 38, was named head coach after leading the Spurs for 77 games as interim coach in 2024-25, posting a 32-45 record. A former G-League player and Spurs assistant since 2016, Johnson is part of Popovich’s coaching tree, which includes Mike Budenholzer, Ime Udoka, and Steve Kerr.
Johnson’s appointment reflects the Spurs’ commitment to continuity. He worked under Popovich for nearly a decade, absorbing the franchise’s principles. As interim coach, he navigated challenges like Wembanyama’s shoulder injury, caused by a blood clot, and the integration of De’Aaron Fox, acquired in a trade-deadline deal.
- Youthful leadership: Johnson is the NBA’s third-youngest coach, behind Joe Mazzulla and Will Hardy.
- Prior success: Won a G-League title with the Austin Spurs in 2018.
- Popovich’s backing: Was personally recommended by Popovich.
- Rebuilding mission: Tasked with developing Wembanyama and Stephon Castle.
Impact beyond basketball
Popovich’s influence extends far beyond the court. In 2014, he hired Becky Hammon as the NBA’s first full-time female assistant coach. Hammon, now head coach of the WNBA’s Las Vegas Aces, made history in 2020 as the first woman to serve as an NBA head coach in a game.
Off the court, Popovich was outspoken on social issues, addressing racial inequality, gun control, and policies under Donald Trump. His progressive stances, uncommon among American sports coaches, amplified his cultural impact.
His tenure with Team USA, culminating in Olympic gold in Tokyo, cemented his global stature. Popovich guided stars like Kevin Durant and Damian Lillard through a high-pressure campaign, redeeming a seventh-place finish at the 2019 World Cup.
Spurs’ rebuilding phase
The Spurs face a new chapter without Popovich on the sidelines. The team has missed the playoffs since 2019, finishing 2024-25 with a 34-48 record. However, young stars like Victor Wembanyama, who led the league in blocks before his injury, and Stephon Castle, the NBA Rookie of the Year, offer hope.
De’Aaron Fox, acquired from the Sacramento Kings, brought speed and veteran presence. His pairing with Wembanyama showed promise, though injuries limited their impact. Johnson must now build a cohesive unit while maintaining the Spurs’ trademark discipline and teamwork.
- Wembanyama’s potential: Averaged over 20 points and 10 rebounds per game.
- Castle’s rise: First Spurs rookie to win Rookie of the Year.
- Fox’s contribution: Averaged 25 points per game after the trade.
- Playoff drought: Spurs have not reached the postseason in six years.
Shaping the modern NBA
Popovich’s coaching tree is among the NBA’s most expansive. Beyond Budenholzer, Udoka, and Kerr, coaches like Taylor Jenkins and Quin Snyder trace their roots to San Antonio. Of the 30 head coaches at the start of the 2024-25 season, four were Popovich assistants, and 11 had indirect ties to his system.
His tactical innovations left a lasting mark. Popovich emphasized defending the corner three, a strategy now universal in the NBA. He also championed international talent, like Ginobili and Parker, at a time when American players dominated the league, helping globalize the sport.
His 29-year tenure with one team is rare, comparable only to legends like Connie Mack (50 years with the Philadelphia Athletics) and George Halas (40 years with the Chicago Bears), both from earlier eras.
San Antonio’s gratitude
San Antonio, where the Spurs are a cultural cornerstone, is planning tributes to Popovich. Fans flooded social media with messages of appreciation, and the city is organizing events to honor his contributions. A special ceremony at Frost Bank Center is expected next season.
Popovich’s bond with the community was deep. He supported local charities and educational initiatives, earning admiration beyond basketball. His famously curt, often witty press conference responses became a beloved part of his public persona.
Fans now look to Mitch Johnson, who faces the daunting task of following a legend. His first full season will test his ability to lead a young roster against Western Conference powerhouses like the Oklahoma City Thunder and Dallas Mavericks.
Popovich’s next chapter
As president, Popovich will shape the Spurs’ future strategically. He has already influenced key moves, like the Fox trade and Wembanyama’s contract extension. His expertise will guide the franchise through the draft and free agency.
Health remains a priority. Following his 2024 and 2025 medical incidents, Popovich is under ongoing care, but his recent appearances at Spurs facilities suggest a stable recovery. The executive role allows him to contribute without the physical demands of coaching.
The Spurs will hold a press conference next Monday to introduce Johnson officially. Popovich is expected to attend, signaling his support for the team’s new direction. He will remain a key figure in the offseason, helping chart the franchise’s path forward.
