Coaching Bombshell: Spurs Spurs Name Gregg Popovich's
Coaching Bombshell: Spurs Spurs Name Gregg Popovich’s Successor. The day Gregg Popovich steps away from basketball will undoubtedly mark a historic moment in the sport. Whether he chooses to retire for personal reasons or due to health concerns, his departure will signal the end of one of the most iconic coaching careers the NBA has ever seen.
Popovich has more than earned the privilege to walk away on his own terms. His legacy is firmly cemented, and a spot in the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame is all but guaranteed. However, for fans of the San Antonio Spurs, it’s becoming increasingly clear that his time on the sidelines is closer to its conclusion than its beginning.
Earlier this year, the legendary coach, who has led the Spurs for 28 seasons, experienced a mild stroke. While reports suggest he is expected to make a full recovery, there is still no definitive timeline for his return to coaching duties. Popovich, who turns 76 in January, already holds the distinction of being the winningest coach in NBA history, and if he does decide to step down, the big question naturally arises: Who will take his place?
In Popovich’s absence, assistant coach Mitch Johnson has stepped up and is now frequently mentioned as a possible candidate to lead the team moving forward. His current role and experience with the organization make him a logical contender, especially among those speculating on the Spurs’ future leadership.
Still, Popovich’s departure would carry weight similar to that of Bill Belichick leaving the New England Patriots. Belichick, after a dominant tenure that included seven Super Bowl titles, exited the team not long after Tom Brady’s departure. The Patriots quickly promoted defensive coordinator Jerod Mayo, indicating that a succession strategy had already been set in motion.
With that in mind, would it really be surprising if Popovich had already chosen his replacement and coordinated with the front office? Probably not. But as for who exactly that successor might be—that’s a topic best saved for another time.
