The San Antonio Spurs have been without Gregg Popovich since Nov. 2, the NBA’s all-time winningest head coach, the first time since the 1996-97 campaign. Popovich announced he would be taking a leave of absence to focus on his health, and it was later revealed the coaching legend had suffered a stroke.
Popovich visited the team for the first time since his stroke in late February, and after the brief reunion, he announced he wouldn’t be returning to the bench for the remainder of the season.
How Does Chris Paul View His Relationship With Gregg Popovich?
Veteran guard Chris Paul joined the Spurs last summer on a one-year, $10.46 million deal in free agency. The deal was shocking to some as Paul has spoken on his desire to compete for a title and San Antonio hasn’t reached the playoffs since the 2018-19 season.
Asked Chris Paul about Pop & hardly getting the chance to play for him this season after their convo played a pivotal role in getting CP3 to the #Spurs
“My relationship with Pop goes way beyond whether or not he gets the chance to coach me”
Full answer⬇️#GoSpursGo #PorVida pic.twitter.com/Qccu5ayGMF
— Hector Ledesma (@HectorLedesmaTV) March 7, 2025
Popovich was one of the driving forces behind Paul’s free agency decision, and his absence on the sidelines has weighed on the veteran.
“It’s tough man,” Paul said. “Things happen that are bigger than the game. My relationship with Pop goes way beyond whether or not he gets the chance to coach me.”
“Just getting a chance to see him the other day was special. A lot of things aren’t ideal. We didn’t know that Vic[tor Wembanyama] would have the situation he’s had and all the different things, but there’s a lot of gratitude that comes with just being able to go out and continue to compete.”
San Antonio’s season has been filled with ups and downs. The team compiled a 17-16 record through December but has only won nine contests since January. The team currently sits at 26-34 and 13th in the Western Conference standings — another non-playoff season is inevitable.
Part of the Spurs’ woes is due to Wembanyama’s season-ending injury due to a blood clot. However, there’s hope for the future after acquiring guard De’Aaron Fox at the trade deadline.
Popovich has amassed 1,414 career wins and five NBA championships at one point running off 22 consecutive winning seasons. Popovich plans to coach again once fully healthy.