Gregg Popovich Will Not Return To San Antonio Spurs This Season

Gregg Popovich, the head coach of the San Antonio Spurs, has announced he will not return to coaching this season. The 76-year-old is focusing on recovering from a mild stroke he suffered on November 2 at Frost Bank Center. This incident occurred before a home game against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Popovich recently met with his team for the first time since November.

Mitch Johnson has been leading the Spurs as interim coach during Popovich's absence. Under his guidance, the team has achieved a 22-30 record in the NBA. Johnson and his staff have been praised for their dedication and professionalism throughout this challenging period. The players have also shown remarkable unity and determination.

Popovich Will Not Coach Spurs This Season

Popovich expressed his gratitude towards Johnson and the team in a statement: "I've decided not to return to the sidelines this season," he said. "Mitch Johnson and his staff have done a wonderful job, and the resolve and professionalism the players have shown, sticking together during a challenging season, has been outstanding."

Having coached the Spurs since the 1996-97 season, Popovich is recognised as the oldest coach in NBA history after turning 76 in January. His tenure with San Antonio has been marked by significant achievements, including five NBA championships over 29 years. He holds an impressive record of 1,412 regular-season victories (1,390 excluding his time away) and 170 postseason wins.

Popovich remains hopeful about returning to coaching once his health improves. "I will continue to focus on my health with the hope that I can return to coaching in the future," he stated.

The basketball community continues to support Popovich during his recovery journey. His contributions to the sport are widely acknowledged, and many look forward to seeing him back on the sidelines when he's ready.