Gregg Popovich steps down after nearly 30 years with San Antonio Spurs

In the United States, Gregg Popovich, celebrated for his impressive coaching career, has finalized his decision to step down as head coach of the San Antonio Spurs. The announcement was made on a Friday in May 2025, marking the end of his nearly three-decade tenure with the team that began in 1996. Popovich’s coaching era saw remarkable success, including leading the Spurs to five NBA championships and earning the title of the NBA's all-time wins leader. His decision comes on the heels of health concerns, including suffering a mild stroke in November 2024 and a medical incident in April 2025, which contributed to his absence from most of the 2024 season. Despite stepping away from coaching, he will continue to serve the organization as the president of basketball operations, a position he has held since 1994. During his time away from the sidelines, Spurs assistant Mitch Johnson took over and has now been promoted to full-time head coach. Johnson expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him to lead the team and emphasized the continuity of the Spurs' culture. Fans and players alike have recognized Popovich's profound impact on the franchise, as articulated by Spurs managing partner Peter J. Holt, who noted the coach's extraordinary influence. Overall, Popovich's departure from coaching signals a new chapter for both him and the Spurs organization, with anticipation surrounding the future under Johnson’s leadership.