In a monumental shift that marks the end of one of the most iconic eras in NBA history, Gregg Popovich, the indomitable leader of the San Antonio Spurs, has officially stepped down as the team’s head coach. After nearly three decades of steering the Spurs from the sidelines, Popovich is transitioning into a more strategic and organizational role as the President of Basketball Operations for the franchise he helped build into a dynasty. The news, though not entirely unexpected given recent developments, sends ripples across the basketball world.
Popovich, often affectionately referred to as “Coach Pop,” leaves behind a coaching legacy unmatched in terms of consistency, character, and championships. For countless fans, players, and analysts, this moment is bittersweet. On one hand, it’s a deserved transition for a man who has given his heart and soul to basketball. On the other hand, it signals the end of a coaching presence that shaped not just a team, but the ethos of professional basketball.
A Career Rooted in Excellence
To understand the weight of this moment, one must first reflect on the incredible journey of Gregg Popovich. Appointed as the Spurs head coach in 1996, Popovich has been a towering figure in the NBA for 29 years. Under his stewardship, the San Antonio Spurs transformed from a mid-tier team into one of the most respected and successful franchises in the league.
His career record speaks volumes: over 1,400 regular-season wins, five NBA championships (1999, 2003, 2005, 2007, and 2014), three Coach of the Year awards, and an Olympic gold medal as head coach of Team USA at the 2020 Tokyo Games. But Popovich’s influence goes well beyond the stat sheet. He is lauded for fostering a culture of selflessness, strategic thinking, and unshakeable team values.
More than a coach, he has been a mentor, a motivator, and a symbol of stability in a league often characterized by volatility. Popovich earned his players’ respect not just through his basketball mind but through his human approach—emphasizing education, empathy, and leadership both on and off the court.
Recent Health Concerns Pave the Way
Though Popovich had signed a five-year contract extension in 2023, recent health scares have prompted a shift in his professional role. In November 2024, he suffered a mild stroke, followed by another health-related incident in April 2025. These episodes, though managed swiftly and carefully, caused the veteran coach to miss critical parts of the NBA season.
During his absence, long-time assistant Mitch Johnson stepped in as interim head coach, guiding the team through the remainder of the season. While no one can truly replace the commanding presence of Popovich, Johnson’s leadership offered a glimpse of continuity and stability within the Spurs organization.
Popovich’s decision to step away from day-to-day coaching duties and move into the front office seems to be driven by a mix of personal health priorities and the natural progression of a long and storied career. From a practical standpoint, his new role allows him to remain deeply involved in team affairs while avoiding the physical and mental demands of coaching an NBA team through an 82-game season plus playoffs.
Why the President Role Makes Perfect Sense
While some might see this move as a retirement, it is anything but. Popovich has always emphasized the importance of systemic team-building and long-term vision. His transition into the role of President of Basketball Operations cements his ongoing influence within the Spurs.
This new role gives Popovich a strategic vantage point—overseeing the draft, free agency, player development, coaching strategies, and more. It also allows him to mentor younger coaches and executives, ensuring the Spurs’ foundational philosophy remains intact.
Given Popovich’s analytical mind and attention to character, he is uniquely suited to guide this franchise in building a sustainable, winning culture in the modern NBA. His elevation to President doesn’t signal a retreat but rather a strategic repositioning from the bench to the boardroom.
Mitch Johnson: The Heir Apparent
In a move that reflects the internal development values of the Spurs, assistant coach Mitch Johnson has been promoted to head coach following Popovich’s transition. Johnson, who joined the Spurs as an assistant in 2019, is considered one of the brightest young minds in basketball coaching circles.
During Popovich’s recent absence, Johnson led the team with professionalism, composure, and a solid understanding of the Spurs’ core strategies. He has long been groomed for a bigger role, and many in the organization and the media see him as the natural successor to Popovich’s legacy.
Of course, stepping into the shoes of a legend is never easy, but Johnson’s appointment suggests a thoughtful succession plan. He inherits not just a roster but a system—a way of thinking and playing that has been refined over decades. The challenge now lies in maintaining the integrity of that system while adapting it to meet the demands of the modern game.
Legacy of Leadership and Integrity
What truly sets Popovich apart from his coaching peers is the breadth and depth of his influence. His relationships with players often extended beyond basketball, fostering lifelong bonds built on mutual respect. Former players like Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, Manu Ginobili, and even international stars have frequently credited Popovich with shaping not only their careers but their character.
His leadership also stood out during times of social tension. Popovich used his platform to speak out on issues like racial injustice, immigration, and education, becoming one of the most politically vocal figures in sports. He led by example, showing that a coach could be both a tactician and a conscience of the community.
Popovich’s teams were not only technically sound—they were composed, adaptable, and resilient. He introduced a style of play that emphasized ball movement, unselfishness, and intelligent decision-making. This style not only won games but won hearts, as fans grew to admire the aesthetics of Spurs basketball under his guidance.
Impact on the NBA Landscape
Gregg Popovich’s departure from coaching represents more than just a shift in one team’s dynamics—it’s a cultural moment for the entire league. He was the last of the old guard, a bridge between the physical, gritty play of the 1990s and the data-driven, perimeter-focused game of today.
The NBA, ever-evolving, now finds itself without one of its most defining figures on the sidelines. Coaches across the league often spoke about how much they learned by simply observing Popovich’s teams. His methods were emulated but rarely duplicated. He set the gold standard in preparation, in-game adjustments, and fostering cohesion among star-studded and role-player rosters alike.
With his transition to a front-office role, the NBA loses a coaching voice, but gains a seasoned architect of basketball excellence at the executive level.
What This Means for the Spurs’ Future
For the San Antonio Spurs, this moment presents both a challenge and an opportunity. Popovich’s presence in the front office ensures continuity, but the day-to-day operations on the court will inevitably change. It’s a test of institutional strength—whether the culture he built can thrive without his direct involvement as coach.
The team is also in a period of reconstruction, with a younger roster and several potential stars in development. The front office, under Popovich’s strategic guidance, will focus on building a new core that can once again take the Spurs to championship contention.
Popovich’s presence in this phase ensures that the rebuild will not be rushed or reckless. His experience ensures the team will focus on long-term growth over short-term gain, a philosophy that has long defined the Spurs’ approach.
NBA Community Responds
As news of Popovich’s transition spread, tributes poured in from across the basketball world. Former players, rival coaches, executives, and media personalities all expressed admiration for the coach’s achievements and character. Social media was flooded with heartfelt messages, with hashtags like #ThankYouPop and #Legend trending globally.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver issued a statement recognizing Popovich’s contributions not only to the league but to global basketball. He credited Popovich for elevating the sport, promoting international collaboration, and championing ethical leadership.
From fans in San Antonio to basketball lovers in Europe and Asia, the sentiment was unanimous—Popovich is irreplaceable, and his legacy is secure.
A Final Word from Popovich
In his official statement, Popovich reflected on his journey with humility and grace. He thanked his players, coaching staff, the Spurs organization, and the city of San Antonio for their unwavering support. He emphasized that while he was stepping away from coaching, his passion for the game and commitment to the Spurs remain as strong as ever.
His message resonated with sincerity—a reminder that for Popovich, basketball was always about more than winning. It was about people, progress, and purpose.
The Torch Has Been Passed
While the NBA will move forward, and the Spurs will embark on a new journey under fresh leadership, the void left by Gregg Popovich on the bench will not be easily filled. His career stands as a testament to what coaching at the highest level can be when guided by intellect, integrity, and an unrelenting love for the game.
Popovich may no longer roam the sidelines, calling plays and managing rotations, but make no mistake—his fingerprints will continue to shape the game for years to come.
As he steps into his new role, basketball fans around the world will watch with anticipation. Because when Gregg Popovich is involved, excellence is never far behind.