Spurs Focused On Continuity, System As Gregg Popovich To Remain Out Indefinitely

The Spurs are stepping into unfamiliar territory with head coach Gregg Popovich sidelined indefinitely due to a health issue he suffered on Saturday.

It’s a rare situation for a franchise accustomed to Popovich’s steady hand, which has guided them for decades. San Antonio’s interim coach Mitch Johnson assured reporters that Popovich is in “good spirits” and expects to return eventually, but for now, there’s no clear timeline.

Johnson, who’s been with the Spurs since 2016, is highly regarded across the NBA. At 39, he’s a rising star in coaching, having earned Popovich’s trust after successful stints with the Austin Spurs, including a G League title.

Popovich appointed him to his staff in 2019, and this temporary role could be an invaluable experience for Johnson, who’s considered by many to be a future head coach.

Helping Johnson manage the team are assistants Brett Brown and Matt Nielsen, both of whom have significant coaching resumes.

Brown, who has a long history with Popovich and the Spurs, brings years of experience, including a stint as the 76ers’ head coach. Nielsen, meanwhile, is familiar with the organization’s younger players and handled the Summer League team before Victor Wembanyama’s debut.

For now, the Spurs are focused on continuity and maintaining Popovich’s system. But with a matchup against the Rockets on Wednesday, all eyes are on how Johnson handles the bench and if he can keep the team steady in Pop’s absence.

At 75 years old, Popovich is the oldest coach in NBA history.

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