'Incomparable' Popovich Has NBA Purring

Tributes pour in for Spurs icon who will now be their president of basketball operations

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LOS ANGELES - San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich confirmed on May 2 that he is stepping down after 29 seasons, ending a glittering National Basketball Association (NBA) coaching career that included five championships and a record 1,422 wins.

The 76-year-old, a beloved figure across the sport who was sidelined for most of this regular season after suffering a mild stroke in November 2024, will take on a new role as president of basketball operations, the Spurs said.

"While my love and passion for the game remain, I've decided it's time to step away as head coach," Popovich said.

"I'm forever grateful to the wonderful players, coaches, staff and fans who allowed me to serve them as the Spurs head coach and am excited for the opportunity to continue to support the organization, community and city that are so meaningful to me."

San Antonio also announced that Mitch Johnson, who filled in as acting head coach after Popovich's illness this season, would now take over on a full-time basis.