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Gregg Popovich Officially Transitions to Spurs President Role After 29 Seasons as Head Coach

The NBA's all-time wins leader retires from coaching due to health concerns, introducing Mitch Johnson as his successor while remaining a key figure in the franchise's leadership.

Sep 30, 2024; San Antonio, TX, USA; San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich answers questions during Media day at Victory Capital Performance Center in San Antonio. Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images/FIle Photo
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Overview

  • Gregg Popovich, 76, announced his retirement from coaching on May 2 and formally introduced Mitch Johnson as the new Spurs head coach on May 5.
  • Popovich, who suffered a stroke in November 2024 and another health scare in April 2025, cited his ongoing recovery as the reason for stepping down.
  • He will continue with the Spurs as president of basketball operations, a role he humorously embraced with a T-shirt reading 'El Jefe' during the press conference.
  • Popovich praised Johnson for his performance as interim coach during the 2024-2025 season, which included navigating challenges like Victor Wembanyama's injury.
  • Tributes from former players, including Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili, and Kawhi Leonard, highlighted Popovich's profound impact on their careers and the Spurs' legacy.