Gregg Popovich, the long-time head coach of the San Antonio Spurs, is unlikely to return this season. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, he is still recovering from a mild stroke he suffered last November and has been out indefinitely since then.
This news adds to a tough season for the Spurs, who also lost their star player, Victor Wembanyama, to deep vein thrombosis in his right shoulder. The team’s current record of 24-30 reflects their struggles, and it seems they are shifting focus away from this season.
Despite Popovich’s absence, he has maintained contact with Wembanyama. Updates on his condition have been rare. Although he only released a personal statement in December, Spurs CEO R.C. Buford mentioned last month that Popovich is working hard on his rehabilitation.
At 76 years old, Popovich is the oldest active head coach in the NBA, with a remarkable career that includes five championship titles and induction into the Hall of Fame in 2023. His record speaks volumes about his success, and fans hope he will mentor emerging talents like Wembanyama and De’Aaron Fox in the future.
In the meantime, Mitch Johnson, an assistant coach, has taken over as interim head coach and is receiving positive feedback for his performance. Johnson, 38, could potentially step up as Popovich’s successor when the time comes, showing promise for the Spurs’ future in this transitional phase.
Source link
Gregg Popovich,San Antonio Spurs,the Spurs,Shams Charania,PATRICK T. FALLON,entire season,Victor Wembanyama,San Antonio,De'Aaron Fox
