San Antonio Spurs Hall of Fame head coach Gregg Popovich is unlikely to return this season as he continues to recover from a mild stroke suffered last November. League sources confirmed to ESPN that the 76-year-old’s future with the franchise remains uncertain, leaving the Spurs without their iconic coach during a pivotal rebuilding year.
Gregg Popovich’s Candid Journey to Recovery
In a statement he released late in December after he collapsed at the Spurs Arena on Nov. 2, 2024, Popovich made it known that he wanted to continue coaching.
In an official statement released by the Spurs on Dec. 16, 2024, the iconic coach explained that his attention is entirely on recuperation after his mild stroke in November, leaving his future undetermined.
“This has certainly been an unexpected six weeks for my family and me,” Popovich said. “As we work together on my recovery, I want to take a moment to share that the outpouring of support we’ve received during this time has been truly overwhelming in the best possible way.
“While I wish I could get back to each one of you, for now, let me say that my family and I are forever grateful. We’re thankful for our wonderful community, the entire Spurs organization, and our family and friends. No one is more excited to see me return to the bench than the talented individuals who have been leading my rehabilitation process. They’ve quickly learned that I’m less than coachable.”
Unfortunately, his return is not expected this season, with NBA insider Shams Charania breaking the news that Popovich’s “future is uncertain.”
San Antonio Spurs' Hall of Fame coach Gregg Popovich is not expected to return this season, and his future is uncertain as he recovers from a mild stroke suffered in November, league sources tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/EekHlDa8NI
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 23, 2025
What’s Next for the Spurs and Popovich?
The Spurs organization has no clear date for the 2003 NBA Coach of the Year’s return. His absence isn’t merely about missing a play-caller; it’s about losing the architect of a culture built on resilient accountability and selflessness.
The Spurs now continue to face a leadership vacuum. Interim coach Mitch Johnson, while well respected, can’t match Popovich’s aura to command respect during tense moments.
Players like Victor Wembanyama, who thrives under Popovich’s guidance, may have felt the pain of his absence most acutely. However, with Wembanyama also out for the season, it’s such an unfortunate moment for the Spurs.
Beyond tactics, the Spurs’ five-time NBA championship winner’s bluntness, honesty, and dry humor create the kind of connection that keeps morale intact during difficult times.
For fans, the question is twofold: How does the franchise prepare for life after its North Star? And what clue hints at Popovich’s potential returns?
For now, the Spurs’ lack of updates about Popovich’s return and recovery speaks volumes. The coach’s legacy is secure, but his shadow looms large until he steps back onto the court or confirms he won’t.
