Mitch Johnson Succeeds Gregg Popovich As Spurs Head Coach

Gregg Popovich has officially stepped down as the San Antonio Spurs’ head coach and Mitch Johnson will be given the role on a permanent basis. After leading the team for nearly three decades, Popovich will now focus solely on his role as president of basketball operations. His new position marks the end of an era in NBA coaching history.

Mitch Johnson Succeeds Gregg Popovich As Spurs Head Coach

Gregg Popovich’s Era as Spurs head coach era defined consistency, success, and class. With five NBA championships and the most regular-season wins in league history, Popovich leaves a legacy unmatched in professional basketball.

Mitch Johnson Promoted Amid New Direction

Following Popovich’s decision, the Spurs promoted assistant coach Johnson to head coach. Johnson served as interim head coach for most of the 2024–25 season after Popovich suffered a mild stroke in November. Despite flashes of promise, the team failed to reach the play-in tournament.

The Spurs’ hopes were derailed by critical injuries. Victor Wembanyama and De’Aaron Fox both suffered season-ending injuries before the All-Star break. Without their two cornerstones, San Antonio struggled to stay competitive.

Still, Johnson’s leadership under tough conditions impressed the front office. His familiarity with the Spurs’ system and connection to players made him the clear choice to take over. Johnson becomes the next link in the long chain of coaches shaped by Gregg Popovich’s system on the Spurs.

Gregg Popovich Transitions from Head Coach into Executive Leadership

Popovich, 76, will now devote himself entirely to basketball operations. He has been part of the Spurs’ front office since 1994 and will take on more day-to-day responsibilities behind the scenes. Popovich had long been preparing for this transition, but his stroke accelerated the process.

Despite health concerns, Popovich has stayed involved in recent days. He made regular appearances at the team facility and continued influencing roster and development decisions. His passion for the game remains, even if he’s no longer pacing the sidelines.

The move ensures stability as the franchise enters a new phase. Popovich will help shape the team around Wembanyama and Fox, provided both return healthy next season.

A Career Worthy of Reverence

Popovich’s coaching résumé is historic. During Gregg Popovich’s time as Spurs head coach, he led the team to five titles—1999, 2003, 2005, 2007, and 2014. He posted 1,422 regular-season wins, more than any coach in league history. From 1998 to 2019, the Spurs made the playoffs 22 consecutive seasons.

He also earned three NBA Coach of the Year awards. Only Pat Riley and Don Nelson share that honor. Popovich’s legacy also includes mentoring numerous current NBA coaches and players.

He coached Team USA to a gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics, cementing his place in global basketball history.

Looking Ahead for the Spurs

With Popovich in the front office and Johnson leading from the bench, the Spurs aim to rebuild smartly. Wembanyama’s development remains the priority. Fox’s leadership and scoring punch will be vital next season.

The front office may explore trade opportunities and free agency with Popovich’s guidance. His vision will continue to steer the franchise.

The end of Gregg Popovich’s time as Spurs head coach signals a turning point. But it’s not a goodbye—it’s a new role for a legendary figure still central to San Antonio’s future.