Legendary Spurs coach Gregg Popovich will miss some time following a health issue before San Antonio’s game on Saturday, as relayed by Shams Charania of ESPN.
In the interim, Spurs assistant Mitch Johnson “is expected to be the interim head coach for an indefinite period, including Monday vs. the Clippers and Wednesday vs. the Rockets,” Charania wrote.
Details on Popovich, 75, have not been reported, though the Spurs cited an undisclosed illness. He has been San Antonio’s coach since 1996.
Johnson played college ball at Standford and professionally in the G League and Europe. He’s been a Spurs assistant since 2016, moving to the front of the bench in 2020.
“For now, Johnson’s main task is to keep up the momentum for a Spurs team focused on developing its young core, led by Victor Wembanyama and breakout star Jeremy Sochan,” wrote Mathey Gibson of SI.com.
“While no timeline has been set for Popovich’s return, Johnson’s calm, familiar presence on the bench gives the Spurs some continuity as they navigate the season without their longtime leader.”
Popovich led San Antonio to five NBA championships and sports an all-time record of 1,390-824.
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