SAN ANTONIO (AP) — The San Antonio Spurs remain uncertain about when, or if, legendary coach Gregg Popovich will return to the sidelines this season after experiencing a medical episode last Saturday, just hours before the team’s home game against Minnesota.
Popovich, who is 75 years old, was reportedly “not feeling well,” according to acting head coach Mitch Johnson, though the specifics of the medical incident have not been disclosed. Popovich has missed three games since the episode, including Thursday’s home victory over Portland.
When asked about the possibility of Popovich returning this season, Johnson could not offer any clarity. “I would say that he’s doing good,” Johnson said Thursday. “We’ve been talking, but I’ve had my hands full trying to manage things here. I haven’t had time for details, and I’m not sure about anything.”
Spurs star Victor Wembanyama also addressed the situation after the team’s 118-105 win over the Blazers. He mentioned that while the players haven’t been in frequent contact with Popovich, they expect him to return soon. “We don’t hear a lot from Pop,” Wembanyama said. “They keep us informed as much as we’re allowed to know. So, I’m not worried about him. I know he’s going to come back soon.”
Popovich, the NBA’s all-time leader in coaching victories with 1,390 wins, is in his 29th season as head coach of the Spurs. He has also won five NBA championships and recorded 170 postseason victories. As the oldest coach in NBA history, Popovich broke the previous age record in 2020 when he surpassed Hubie Brown, who retired at 71.
While the Spurs remain hopeful for Popovich’s recovery and return, the team will continue under Johnson’s leadership in the interim. With a focus on maintaining their performance and keeping the players informed during this uncertain time.
