Gregg Popovich Likely Absent for Remainder of NBA Season Due to Health Setback

Caspian Hollingsworth
Feb 27 2025
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In a challenging turn for the San Antonio Spurs, their iconic head coach, Gregg Popovich, is not expected to make a return for the 2024-25 NBA season. At 76, Popovich remains an enduring figure in basketball, holding the record for the most wins by a coach at 1,412 victories. He's also the mastermind behind the Spurs’ five championship titles stretching from 1999 to 2014. However, a mild stroke on November 2, 2023, has put his immediate future with the team in jeopardy.

Popovich had just signed a five-year contract extension earlier in 2023, showcasing his commitment and the Spurs' confidence in him. But the stroke, occurring mere hours before a game against the Minnesota Timberwolves, required immediate medical intervention and placed his coaching duties on indefinite hold. Since then, Mitch Johnson has stepped up as interim coach, navigating the team through the season's ups and downs.

Recovery and Uncertainties

The precise timeline for Popovich's recovery is shrouded in uncertainty. December revealed Popovich’s enthusiasm about resuming his position, and he credited his rehabilitation team for aiding his progress. Yet, as Spurs CEO R.C. Buford pointed out in January, there's no definitive schedule for his return to the courts.

Concurrently, the Spurs are dealing with the fallout from another blow: star center Victor Wembanyama's season-ending thrombosis diagnosis. This double whammy leaves the team managing not only their game strategies but also their morale as they navigate these significant hurdles.

Looking Ahead

The situation has sparked discussions about Popovich’s long-term role in the NBA, especially given the unpredictable nature of health recoveries at his age. Fans and analysts alike are left pondering whether this will signal the end for the iconic coach or merely a pause in his storied career.

As Mitch Johnson steers the Spurs through this turbulent time, the focus remains on both winning games and supporting Popovich in his recovery journey. The Spurs' enduring team spirit will need to shine bright as they hope for the best outcomes in health and sport.

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