Keldon Johnson, a player for the San Antonio Spurs, used to have a predictable drive from his ranch to the Frost Bank Center. However, due to increased construction, his commute has become longer. This mirrors the feeling around the San Antonio Spurs and the city itself – experiencing growth and new energy, filling previously open spaces.
Even before the arrival of Victor Wembanyama, the number one draft pick in 2023, Coach Gregg Popovich was inspired by this energy. Back in 2022, he expressed his enjoyment of coaching a young team, seeing them as “clean slates” ready to be taught from the ground up.
Johnson, surprisingly the longest-tenured Spur at 25, has learned to follow Popovich’s example. This shared dedication led them both to arrive early at the arena on November 2, 2024. Johnson was there for extra practice, and Popovich, at 75, was committed to his pre-game workout routine, vital for navigating the NBA season.
However, shortly after beginning his workout near the locker room, Popovich suddenly stopped. Team staff noticed something was wrong and quickly assisted him. They immediately sat him down as he needed medical attention.
Johnson, nearby, heard the commotion and sensed something serious was happening. He described the situation as “scary” because no one was sharing information, and the uncertainty was difficult.
Popovich was attended to by staff and then taken by ambulance to a hospital. Only a few people initially understood the gravity of the situation.
Reporters gathered for Popovich’s pre-game press conference, expecting him to be punctual as usual, though occasional delays weren’t unheard of. However, instead of Popovich, team spokesman Tom James announced that Popovich was “under the weather” and assistant coach Mitch Johnson would take over for the night.
Behind the scenes, the team was beginning to realize that Popovich’s situation was serious, potentially life-threatening. Doctors later determined he had suffered a mild stroke. He was unable to communicate with players for weeks and needed months to regain the ability to walk and address the team.
Johnson expressed the team’s concern, noting Popovich’s role as a long-time leader and role model.
In the subsequent five months, significant changes occurred. The Spurs traded for All-NBA guard De’Aaron Fox, and Stephon Castle emerged as a strong Rookie of the Year candidate. Wembanyama lived up to his hype before a season-ending blood clot in his arm.
Popovich has remained absent from coaching since that November night and will not return this season. Harrison Barnes mentioned Popovich is recovering faster than expected, but his return next season remains uncertain. This situation marks a turning point for the Spurs. The long-standing bond between Popovich and the team is deeply ingrained, and his absence has brought the long-discussed succession plan to the forefront. Decisions that were once solely his are now being reconsidered.
For the first time in thirty years, Popovich, a central figure in San Antonio and the Spurs, is on a different path – fighting to return to his former role.
Popovich’s influence is evident throughout San Antonio. From local bakeries to restaurants where he is an investor, stories of his presence and character are common. Keldon Johnson shared a story of Popovich’s unique way of testing players by inviting them to a fancy dinner and encouraging them to try oysters.
Johnson emphasized Popovich’s profound impact on him as a person, highlighting his caring nature and selflessness, dispelling the perception of him as merely stern.
Popovich’s legacy is undeniable, solidified by five championships during the Spurs’ remarkable 22-year playoff streak. The Spurs Way, reflecting his values, is embodied in their state-of-the-art facility, The Rock at La Cantera, built to serve both the team and the community. Inside, his coaching philosophy, “The Stonecutter’s Credo,” emphasizes perseverance and the cumulative effect of consistent effort.
Popovich, in his Hall of Fame speech, modestly acknowledged his role in creating a successful environment, but his impact on basketball and the Spurs is immeasurable.
Mike Krzyzewski praised Popovich as one of the greatest coaches in any sport, emphasizing their close relationship and admiration for Popovich’s leadership and use of his platform. Both coaches, with military backgrounds, share a unique bond.
While Krzyzewski planned his retirement, Popovich’s passion for coaching, especially this young Spurs team, remains strong. The organization respects his decision, recognizing he has earned the right to decide his future.
The Spurs’ succession plan has been a long-term consideration. Popovich annually assesses his desire to continue coaching, with the organization trusting his judgment. Various assistant coaches have been considered as potential successors over the years, but Popovich has remained at the helm.
Mitch Johnson was named interim head coach, despite a less prominent resume compared to other potential candidates. However, his intelligence and basketball acumen are highly regarded. Former teammate Brook Lopez described Johnson’s high basketball IQ and leadership qualities.
When Johnson took over, the team communicated to the media in Los Angeles about the coaching change, emphasizing Johnson’s role as the interim coach due to Popovich’s health situation. The news of Popovich’s stroke was a shock to the team, creating a somber atmosphere.
Chris Paul spoke on behalf of the players before a game, expressing their support for Popovich and acknowledging his calming presence. Mitch Johnson also delivered an emotional statement, emphasizing Popovich’s impact and expressing hope for his return.
Despite an initially strong start in their first game without Popovich, the Spurs eventually lost, highlighting the emotional toll of his absence.
San Antonio and the Spurs are known for quiet transitions and changes, often handled discreetly. Leadership changes within the organization, including ownership, have been managed with minimal public attention, maintaining stability and continuity, largely due to the established culture under Popovich and CEO R.C. Buford.
The Spurs have provided updates on Popovich’s condition, initially stating he was “under the weather,” then revealing he had suffered a mild stroke with expected full recovery, followed by Popovich’s statement of gratitude and eventual announcement that he would not return this season but hoped to coach in the future.
Throughout his recovery, Popovich stayed connected with the coaching staff, front office, and players. Keldon Johnson noted Popovich’s continued engagement with the team through texts and calls.
In late February, Popovich addressed the team in person, confirming he would not return this season but holding them accountable for their performance. His presence and direct feedback were impactful and reassuring to the team, reminding them of his enduring leadership.
Popovich emphasized his commitment to returning only when he can be “100% himself,” underscoring his dedication to the team and his own standards.
De’Aaron Fox and other players expressed their inspiration from Popovich’s fight to return, highlighting his personal qualities and the team’s desire to be coached by him.
Despite changes in San Antonio, the Spurs organization retains a strong sense of family and community. Former players and coaches often return to San Antonio, illustrating the enduring culture Popovich has built. The question remains how this culture will evolve in his absence, though his influence is deeply embedded.
Popovich has gradually delegated coaching responsibilities over the years, preparing for a transition. His personal life has also seen changes, including moving homes and the loss of his wife, Erin. In his Hall of Fame speech, he acknowledged these changes and expressed gratitude to his family, reinforcing his commitment to the life he has built.
Ultimately, Popovich’s current fight is about returning to his life – his family, his team, and his city – and deciding his future on his own terms.
