• Gregg Popovich, the winningest coach in NBA history, has stepped down as head coach of the San Antonio Spurs after 29 seasons.
• Mitch Johnson, who served as interim head coach following Popovich's stroke in November 2024, has been named the permanent head coach.
• Popovich will transition to a full-time role as the team's president of basketball operations, maintaining his involvement with the franchise.

Gregg Popovich, the iconic head coach of the San Antonio Spurs, has announced his retirement from coaching after an impressive 29-year tenure. He will transition to the role of president of basketball operations. Popovich's departure marks the end of an era for the Spurs, during which he led the team to five NBA championships and established a culture of success and continuity. Mitch Johnson, who filled in as interim head coach after Popovich suffered a stroke, has been named as his permanent replacement. This transition signifies a new chapter for the Spurs, while maintaining the values instilled by Popovich.

• What: Gregg Popovich retired as the head coach of the San Antonio Spurs, transitioning to president of basketball operations. Mitch Johnson was promoted to head coach.
• Who: Gregg Popovich, Mitch Johnson, Becky Hammon, Victor Wembanyama, RC Buford, Peter J. Holt, Brian Wright.
• When: Popovich stepped down on May 2, 2025. He had been the coach since December 1996. Johnson served as acting coach starting November 2024.
• Where: San Antonio, Texas; Las Vegas, Nevada (Summer League, Aces' games).

Gregg Popovich's departure marks the end of a significant era for the San Antonio Spurs. His leadership and coaching acumen led to five NBA championships and established a winning culture. The promotion of Mitch Johnson reflects the Spurs' commitment to continuity and internal development. Becky Hammon's reaction highlights Popovich's impact on the coaching world and her own career trajectory. The transition presents both a challenge and an opportunity for the Spurs as they enter a new chapter under Johnson's leadership.

"While my love and passion for the game remain, I've decided it's time to step away as head coach."

"I am truly grateful and honored to receive this incredible opportunity. I am thankful for Coach Pop, RC, Brian and Peter trusting me to carry on our culture and I promise to give this responsibility everything I have to make Spurs fans proud."

"He's a huge reason why I got this job."

"I trust the organization … and I also trust Mitch to grow into that role. So, I think we are in good hands."

Gregg Popovich's transition to president of basketball operations marks the end of an era for the San Antonio Spurs, concluding a remarkable 29-year coaching career highlighted by five NBA championships and a record 1,422 wins. Despite stepping down from the sidelines due to health concerns, including a stroke and a later medical incident, his influence will endure as he continues to shape the franchise's direction. The appointment of Mitch Johnson as head coach signifies both continuity and a fresh start, entrusting the team to a long-time assistant who has absorbed the Spurs' culture and values. Johnson's experience as interim head coach this season, coupled with the strong support from players like Victor Wembanyama, positions him to lead the Spurs into a new chapter while honoring Popovich's enduring legacy. As Popovich moves to the front office, his impact will remain embedded in the Spurs, guiding the team's future and ensuring his winning philosophy continues to resonate.