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Welcome back, Spurs Nation! Today marks the end of an era and the dawn of a new chapter for the San Antonio Spurs. After an incredible 29-year run as head coach, Gregg “Coach Pop” Popovich has officially announced his retirement from the sidelines. Let’s break down what this means for the team, celebrate Pop’s monumental legacy, and look ahead to fresh leadership under Mitch Johnson. 🏀✨
A Legendary Farewell for Coach Pop 🔥
Today, Gregg Popovich stepped down as the head coach of the San Antonio Spurs, bringing to a close a historic 29‑season tenure that included five NBA championships, three Coach of the Year awards, and a record-setting 1,422 regular‑season wins. Popovich will transition to a full‑time role as the Spurs’ President of Basketball Operations, ensuring his wisdom and passion remain central to the organization’s future AP NewsESPN.com.
In his own words, Popovich stated:
“While my love and passion for the game remain, I’ve decided it’s time to step away as head coach.”
His decision follows a health scare in November when he suffered a mild stroke at the AT&T Center, missing all but five games this season. Despite his absence from the bench, Coach Pop continued to mentor his players and staff behind the scenes AP NewsESPN.com.
Passing the Torch: Mitch Johnson Steps Up 🏆
With Popovich’s departure, longtime assistant coach Mitch Johnson—who served as acting head coach for the final 77 games—has been named the Spurs’ new head coach. Johnson, known for his strategic acumen and strong rapport with the team, will now lead San Antonio into its next era ESPN.comTPR.
Johnson’s promotion is a testament to the Spurs’ culture of continuity. Having been part of Popovich’s staff since his stroke, Johnson maintained the team’s identity and growth trajectory, particularly guiding the young core around Victor Wembanyama ESPN.comTPR.
Remembering “Coach Pop”: A Hall of Fame Career 👑
Popovich’s impact extends far beyond wins and losses. Since taking over a struggling franchise in 1996, he built the Spurs into a model of consistency, professionalism, and championship pedigree. Under his guidance, San Antonio captured NBA titles in 1999, 2003, 2005, 2007, and 2014, all while fostering a family‑like atmosphere in the locker room The Washington PostAP News.
Notably, Popovich coached six Hall of Famers—Tim Duncan, Manu Ginóbili, Tony Parker, David Robinson, Pau Gasol, and Dominique Wilkins—and also led Team USA to gold at the Tokyo Olympics. His blunt, witty press conferences and unwavering commitment to social justice made him one of the NBA’s most respected figures The Washington PostAP News.
Overcoming Adversity: Popovich’s Health Journey 💪
Popovich’s recent health challenges cast a spotlight on his resilience. After suffering a stroke on November 2, 2024, he underwent extensive rehabilitation. Though he hoped for a return, Popovich ultimately concluded that the physical demands of coaching were too great to continue. He’s since focused on his recovery and family, while preparing to shape the Spurs’ strategic vision from the front office AP NewsESPN.com.
The Spurs organization has praised Popovich for his courage and leadership throughout this period. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver remarked, “Few people in the basketball community are as beloved and revered as Coach Pop” AP NewsESPN.com.
Players, Fans, and Legends React 🙌
The basketball world has flooded social media with tributes. Spurs star Victor Wembanyama shared a poignant message:
“29 years. Coach, thank you for your wisdom, for your leadership, for the culture you created… Wishing you the best on your new chapter.” YardbarkerSan Antonio Express-News.
Former players like Tony Parker and Manu Ginóbili also expressed gratitude, while fans lined the streets of San Antonio, waving “Thank You, Coach Pop” banners. The city is embracing this milestone with celebration and nostalgia, honoring a coach who defined an entire generation YardbarkerSan Antonio Express-News.
What’s Next for the Spurs? Looking to the Future 🔮
Under Coach Johnson, the Spurs will continue their rebuild around the 7‑footer phenom Victor Wembanyama. San Antonio aims to blend Popovich’s principles—teamwork, defense, and selflessness—with modern NBA trends like pace and space. Next season’s roster decisions, draft picks, and free‑agency moves will be guided by the front office that Popovich now leads TPRThe Washington Post.
Spurs fans should stay tuned for upcoming NBA games. Tomorrow night’s slate features two matchups worth watching, including the Seattle SuperSonics vs. Dallas Mavericks and the Lakers taking on the Phoenix Suns. Be sure to catch tip‑off live and see how Coach Johnson’s new schemes translate on court ESPN.comTPR.
How to Stay Connected 📲
- Follow the Spurs on X (@spurs), Instagram (@spurs), and Facebook for live updates.
- Subscribe to the Spurs’ newsletter for exclusive behind‑the‑scenes content.
- Join local watch parties at San Antonio sports bars to experience the camaraderie.
Don’t miss a moment of the action as the Spurs embark on their next chapter!
Join the Conversation 💬
What are your favorite Coach Pop memories? How do you feel about Mitch Johnson taking over? Drop a comment below and tell us your thoughts! If you enjoyed this post, please share it with fellow fans and let’s celebrate Gregg Popovich’s incredible legacy together!
Vintage Basketball Coach Game plan Unisex Classic T-Shirt
Vintage Basketball Coach Game plan Unisex Classic T-Shirt.
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