Legendary Coach Gregg Popovich Steps Down, Spurs Name Mitch Johnson as New Head Coach

Basketball legend Gregg Popovich is taking on a new role as the president of basketball operations for the San Antonio Spurs, stepping away from his coaching duties, the team announced Friday. Mitch Johnson, who temporarily filled in as head coach after Popovich experienced a minor stroke in November, will now assume the role permanently.

In recent days, Popovich has remained actively involved with the Spurs, being present at their facilities. Although he cherished his position courtside, his health and the demanding nature of NBA coaching led him to decide that it was time to step back. “While my love and passion for the game remain, I’ve decided it’s time to step away as head coach,” Popovich said. He expressed gratitude toward everyone who supported him in his coaching journey and looks forward to continuing his contribution to the team from his new position.

Johnson led the Spurs to a 31-45 record while filling in for Popovich. Over his decade-long tenure with the organization, Johnson has built an impressive resume, having played college basketball at Stanford and professionally in the NBA G League. His coaching career with the Spurs began as an assistant with their Austin G League team in 2016.

By selecting Johnson as the new head coach, the Spurs honor the legacy and continuity established by Popovich and key figures like CEO RC Buford and general manager Brian Wright, both of whom shared overlapping timelines with Johnson’s career. Highly esteemed by Spurs officials and players alike, Johnson is seen as a natural choice for this pivotal role. “I am truly grateful and honored to receive this incredible opportunity,” Johnson noted, pledging to uphold the Spurs’ culture.

Popovich, now 76, initially joined the Spurs in 1988 as an assistant coach under Larry Brown. He briefly worked with the Golden State Warriors, then returned to the Spurs in 1994, ascending to head coach in 1996. After a rocky start to that season, he transformed the team’s fortunes, securing tenacious playoff appearances and an astounding 1,422 regular-season wins. Under his leadership, the Spurs clinched five NBA championships, with Popovich earning three NBA Coach of the Year titles.

Known as a linchpin of the Spurs, Popovich played a pivotal role in the team’s glory days alongside stars like Tim Duncan, David Robinson, and Kawhi Leonard. His departure was emotional, as he shared his decision with Spurs’ players in February. Following a brief hospitalization in April, Popovich returned to health and resumed involvement with the team.

Popovich’s coaching career, marked by his record as the oldest NBA coach, included his 2023 five-year contract extension and his significant role with the U.S. men’s national basketball team, where he guided them to a gold medal victory at the Tokyo Olympics.

With Popovich stepping down, Erik Spoelstra, who has been with the Miami Heat since 2008, now holds the title of the NBA’s longest-tenured active head coach.