San Antonio Spurs fans received some unsettling news this past weekend when the team revealed that a severe health issue sidelined head coach Gregg Popovich. While the details initially remained vague, ESPN’s Shams Charania recently provided an update that raised concerns about Popovich’s condition.
Charania explained during an appearance on NBA Today that the situation was more serious than initially let on. “I was told it was a health issue, and it was a serious health issue that Popovich dealt with over the weekend,” Charania said. “It was a situation on Saturday night, pregame, that Gregg Popovich needed medical attention in San Antonio.”
Although the Spurs have not disclosed the exact nature of Popovich’s health scare, Charania added that there is a “great level of concern” surrounding both the coach’s well-being and the team. The uncertainty surrounding Popovich’s condition has left fans anxious, as it remains unclear when he will return to his coaching duties. Assistant coach Mitch Johnson, who has been with the Spurs since 2019, is now the interim head coach. A finalist for the Wizards’ head coaching job last year, he led the team to a 113-103 win over the Timberwolves.
Speaking to the media before Monday’s game against the Los Angeles Clippers, which the Spurs unfortunately lost 104-113, Johnson acknowledged the challenge of stepping in for a coach of Popovich’s stature. “It’s hard to put into words, and if I tried, it would not do it justice,” Johnson said of Popovich’s impact. “He’s been tremendous for me personally, and right now, his health is the No. 1 priority. We support him in that 100%.”
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Spurs Focus On Gregg Popovich’s Recovery As Mitch Johnson Steps Up
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While the Spurs have not offered further specifics on when Popovich will return, the team focuses on his recovery. Johnson reassured the public, saying, “He’s in good spirits. He’s OK, and we can’t wait to have him back.” Popovich, who is in his 29th season with the Spurs, holds the record for the most wins in NBA history with 1,391 victories. Under his leadership, the Spurs have won five NBA championships, and many regard him as one of the greatest coaches in basketball history.
Though relatively new to the head coach role, Johnson has proven to be more than capable in Popovich’s absence despite the loss against the Clippers. “Mitch did a great job, man,” said Spurs point guard Chris Paul after the Timberwolves game. “Things happen within this league all the time, and just like with the players, it’s next man up.”
The Spurs are moving forward without Popovich on the bench, with Johnson handling the day-to-day duties. However, the focus remains on the Hall of Fame coach’s health, and the entire Spurs organization is hopeful for his full recovery. Fans eagerly await updates, hoping Popovich will return soon to continue his legendary tenure with the team.
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