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Gregg Popovich Steps Down as Spurs Coach, Becomes 'El Jefe'

The NBA's all-time winningest coach transitions to team president after health challenges, with Mitch Johnson officially taking over as head coach.

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, after 29 seasons and five NBA championships, has stepped down as head coach of the San Antonio Spurs due to ongoing health concerns following a stroke in November 2024.
  • Popovich has assumed the new role of president of basketball operations, humorously declaring himself 'El Jefe' during his first public appearance since his health setbacks.
  • Mitch Johnson, who served as interim coach for most of the 2024-25 season, has been officially introduced as Popovich's successor and praised for his leadership under challenging circumstances.
  • Popovich emphasized the continuity of Spurs culture, with the team’s leadership structure and core principles remaining unchanged under Johnson's guidance.
  • Former players and colleagues, including Tim Duncan and Manu Ginóbili, supported Popovich at the press conference, highlighting his enduring influence on the organization and its legacy.