San Antonio Spurs are facing an uncertain future, as it appears that legendary head coach Gregg Popovich will not be returning this season. Popovich’s recovery continues after he suffered a stroke last November.
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Shams Charisma, ESPN’s senior NBA insider and social media expert via X.
ESPN sources report that Gregg Popovich of the San Antonio Spurs is not likely to be back this year. He is still recovering from a stroke in November. pic.twitter.com/EekHlDa8NI
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 23, 2025
Gregg Popovich was last coaching on 2nd November, when he required medical attention by emergency personnel at the stadium. The organization has kept the details of the stroke private. Popovich is the priority.
Around a month earlier, Spurs’ CEO R.C. Buford issued a press release regarding Popovich’s state, noting that the veteran coach is dedicated to rehabilitation in order to return to the bench.
“All I can share is he’s attacking his rehab in a way that … you know Pop, you’ve observed him for years,” Buford said. “In a unique and incredibly resilient way, the same resilience he has shown throughout his career as a Coach is reflected in how he approaches his rehabilitation. It’s amazing to see the relationships he has with his former players, and how much care they are sharing with him. “And his progress continues.” Buford stressed the importance of Spurs alumni networks in helping Popovich recover.
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Buford, however, acknowledged that uncertainty. He clarified there was not a set date for the return. Popovich’s well-being and health are the organization’s top priorities. Although Coach Pop and the front office have been in constant communication, there has not yet been a set date for his return.
Mitch Johnson, an assistant coach of Popovich’s, was named interim head coach following Popovich’s departure. Johnson has guided the Spurs to a 21-27 mark, as they navigated the complexities of an injury-plagued season and roster changes. Johnson’s leadership in this time of transition is viewed positively within the Spurs organization.
Gregg Popovich’s legacy as a coach is unquestionable. Gregg Popovich is widely considered one of the most successful NBA coaches in history. His San Antonio Spurs won five NBA Championships under his leadership. He has cemented his position in basketball history with both his strategic brilliance, and the skills he has developed for players. His achievements on the international scene were further cemented when he successfully led Team USA to win a gold at Tokyo Olympics in 2021.
The San Antonio Spurs have had a tough season. This is yet another setback. The San Antonio Spurs announced in early week that Victor Wembanyama will miss the remainder the season, due to a clot in right shoulder. It has had a significant impact on the team’s performance, and their playoff hopes.
Wembanyama was a leading contender for Defensive player of the year before the injury. His talent as a young basketball player was apparent when he received his first All-Star nomination. He averaged, in 46 games, 24.3 points and 11.0 rebounds. In addition, he had 3.7 assists and 3.8 blockers.
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