San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich is currently hospitalized following a stroke he suffered on November 2, 2024. The 75-year-old Hall of Famer has been absent from coaching duties since the incident. The Spurs organization has expressed that Popovich is expected to make a full recovery, though no specific timeline for his return has been provided.
In the meantime, assistant coach Mitch Johnson has stepped in as the acting head coach. Under Johnson’s leadership, the team has achieved a 22-30 record.
The San Antonio community has shown strong support for Popovich during his recovery. Artists Michael Sanchez, J.C. Gómez-Molina, and Bernardo Moreno Jr. have created vibrant murals honoring both Popovich and rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama, who is also sidelined due to a shoulder condition. These murals have been well-received, drawing positive attention from the public.
Popovich’s influence extends beyond the Spurs; he recently sent a congratulatory message to University of Houston head coach Kelvin Sampson after the Cougars advanced to the Final Four. Their longstanding friendship dates back to the 1990s, highlighting Popovich’s deep connections within the basketball community.
While Popovich’s return to coaching remains uncertain, his health and well-being continue to be a priority for the Spurs organization and the broader basketball community.