Gregg Popovich Steps Down as Spurs Coach; Mitch Johnson Named Successor

 Gregg Popovich, a Hall of Fame coach, is stepping down from his role as the San Antonio Spurs' head coach and will transition into a full-time position as the team's president of basketball operations, the franchise confirmed on Friday.

Mitch Johnson, who had been serving as acting head coach following Popovich's mild stroke in November, will take over the role permanently.

Popovich has continued to be involved with the team and has recently been at the Spurs' facility. He will remain a key figure in the franchise’s operations. Sources told ESPN that despite Popovich’s desire to return to coaching, he has decided he can no longer handle the intense demands of being an NBA head coach. His health is reportedly improving as he recovers from the stroke.

"I still have a deep love for the game, but I’ve decided it’s time to step away from the sidelines," Popovich said in a statement. "I’m eternally thankful to the players, coaches, staff, and fans who have allowed me to serve as their head coach, and I’m excited to continue supporting this organization and community that mean so much to me."

Under Johnson, who guided the Spurs to a 31-45 record in Popovich's absence, the team maintains continuity in leadership. Johnson has spent over a decade with the Spurs organization, and his appointment as head coach is supported by the team's top officials, including CEO RC Buford and general manager Brian Wright, who also joined the Spurs in 2016.

"I’m incredibly honored and grateful for this opportunity," Johnson said. "I thank Coach Pop, RC, Brian, and [managing partner Peter J. Holt] for trusting me to carry forward our culture, and I promise to do everything I can to make Spurs fans proud."

Popovich, 76, began his coaching career with the Spurs in 1988 as an assistant before taking over as head coach in 1996. Under his leadership, the Spurs made 22 consecutive playoff appearances and won five NBA championships. Popovich, the NBA’s all-time leader in regular-season wins with 1,422, is also tied for the most Coach of the Year awards in league history.

Popovich’s legacy includes guiding the Spurs to a dynasty era alongside stars like Tim Duncan, David Robinson, Tony Parker, Manu Ginobili, and Kawhi Leonard. The selection of Victor Wembanyama as the 2023 draft’s No. 1 pick suggested Popovich could be poised for another championship run with a new superstar in tow.

Despite stepping down, Popovich remains committed to the Spurs' future, continuing to work with the organization and the city that he has long shaped.