Gregg Popovich, the NBA's all-time winningest coach, stepped down as head coach of the San Antonio Spurs in 2025 after 29 seasons. This decision followed his recovery from a mild stroke he suffered on November 2, 2024, which caused him to miss most of the 2024-25 NBA season. During his absence, assistant coach Mitch Johnson served as interim head coach and was later promoted to head coach after Popovich's departure. Popovich transitioned into the role of Spurs president of basketball operations, continuing to contribute to the organization off the court

. Popovich's coaching legacy includes leading the Spurs to five NBA championships and mentoring numerous players and coaches. His career with the Spurs began in 1988 as an assistant and he became head coach in 1996. Despite his health challenges, Popovich expressed eagerness to return to coaching but ultimately chose to step away to focus on his health and new responsibilities in the front office