Image Credit: D. Ross Cameron-USA TODAY Sports

Gregg Popovich steps away from Spurs due to health issues

In another statement released by the franchise, head coach, Gregg Popovich will not return to the sidelines this season due to health reasons.

Image Credit: D. Ross Cameron-USA TODAY Sports

San Antonio Spurs have suffered major setbacks in the ongoing NBA season. The injury to Victor Wembanyama after the trade for De’Aaron Fox has only added to the team’s struggles. Expectations were high after acquiring Fox, but Wembanyama’s absence leaves a major void on both ends of the court.

In another statement released by the franchise, head coach, Gregg Popovich will not return to the sidelines this season due to health reasons. The head coach also complimented his assistant, Mitch Johnson’s work in his absence as the team is 22-30 despite injury to Victor Wembanyama. He also praised his player’s work ethic and attitude amidst the difficulties faced.

“I’ve decided not to return to the sidelines this season. Mitch Johnson and his staff have done a wonderful job, and the resolve and professionalism the players have shown, sticking together during a challenging season, has been outstanding.”

pic.twitter.com/qFu4nyAjo0
— San Antonio Spurs (@spurs) February 27, 2025

Spurs head coach, Gregg Popovich was sidelined since November 2, 2024, after suffering a mild stroke. He also talked about his health, focused on full-recovery while aiming to return back soon.

“I will continue to focus on my health with the hope that I can return to coaching in the future,” said Popovich in his statement.

Gregg Popovich holds an in-person meeting with the Spurs players

According to Shams Charania, Gregg Popovich held an emotional in-person meeting with the players to announce his decision. The coach met the players for the first time since his health injury setback in November 2024. He announced his decision to not return for the remainder of the season while forecasting a shadow on his NBA return.

Gregg Popovich held an emotional in-person meeting today with his Spurs players, who were all able to see him for the first time since his stroke in November, sources tell ESPN. Popovich will not return as coach this season and his NBA future remains uncertain as he recovers. https://t.co/RmduwYrMZj
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 27, 2025

Injury to Victor Wembanyama has ruled out the San Antonio Spurs from the playoffs race. The organization would also want a healthy Popovich on the sidelines when Wembanyama returns for the next season.

Greg Popovich

Suryansh Kumar

NBA/WNBA Writer

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Hello, my name is Suryansh, and I write NBA/WNBA content for ThePlayoffs. I love sports, which is why I write and I love the NBA because of the stats. My aim is to find unique stats and perspectives to provide my readers with another angle on sports.