close
close

first Drop

Com TW NOw News 2024

Spurs coach Gregg Popovich suffered a mild stroke before the game
news

Spurs coach Gregg Popovich suffered a mild stroke before the game

Legendary Spurs coach Gregg Popovich suffered a mild stroke before a home game on Nov. 2 and is expected to make a full recovery, the team announced Wednesday afternoon.

It was previously reported that Popovich, 75, had a health issue at the team’s arena before the win over the Timberwolves, but the issue had not previously been disclosed.

“At this time, no timeline has been established for his return to the sidelines,” the Spurs said, noting that Popovich has already begun a drug rehabilitation program. “During this time, the organization is grateful to the extended community for providing privacy and space for the Popovich family.”

Gregg Popovich during the last game he coached for the Spurs in Salt Lake City on October 31, 2024. Getty Images
Gregg Popovich (r.) talks with Spurs guard Chris Paul (l.) during a game against the Jazz on Oct. 31, 2024. AP

Spurs assistant Mitch Johnson has taken on interim head coaching duties in Popovich’s absence.

Popovich last coached the Spurs on Halloween in Salt Lake City, where the team defeated the Jazz.

“He’s not feeling well,” Johnson said of Popovich last week. “This has happened before. I think everyone just has to always be ready for the next guy. We’ve had it with injuries and sometimes people get sick, don’t feel well or things happen in life. He just doesn’t feel well.”

Mitch Johnson reacts during a Spurs game against the Kings on November 11, 2024. Scott Wachter-Imagn images

Popovich, who has coached San Antonio since 1996 and is in his 29th season at the helm, has led the team to five NBA championships and is a three-time NBA Coach of the Year winner.

Last year he was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

The Spurs are 5-6 on the season going into Wednesday’s game against the Wizards.