Gregg Popovich, the NBA's all-time winningest coach and longtime head coach of the San Antonio Spurs, suffered a mild stroke on November 2, 2024, which caused him to miss the remainder of the 2024-25 NBA season. During his absence, assistant coach Mitch Johnson served as interim head coach
. Popovich was reported stable and recovering at home after a medical incident at a restaurant in April 2025, but he did not return to coaching that season
. On May 2, 2025, Popovich officially stepped down as the Spurs' head coach after 29 seasons and transitioned into the role of president of basketball operations for the team. Mitch Johnson was promoted to head coach to succeed him. Popovich expressed gratitude for his coaching career and excitement about continuing to support the Spurs organization and community in his new role
. In summary, Popovich ended his legendary coaching career due to health issues related to a stroke and moved into a front office leadership position with the Spurs.
