Insider provides concerning update on Spurs HC Gregg Popovich's future

Popovich has been the Spurs head coach since the 1996-97 season. He led San Antonio to each of its five Larry O'Brien Trophies, with the last in 2014.

His 1,412 career wins are the most in NBA history. Only fellow Hall of Fame coaches Pat Riley and Phil Jackson have more playoff wins.

Popovich's resume speaks for itself. As arguably the greatest coach in league history, it's beyond unfortunate that his health could force him to retire before he's ready. If anyone deserves a celebratory farewell tour, it's him.

The 2023 Pro Basketball Hall of Fame inductee last coached on Oct. 31 against the Jazz. He suffered a stroke on Nov. 2, hours before a game against the Timberwolves.

Assistant coach Mitch Johnson has served as the team's active coach during Popovich's absence, leading San Antonio to a 22-27 record.

The unfortunate update on Popovich adds to a horrible week of news for the Spurs. On Thursday, the team announced superstar center Victor Wembanyama, well on his way to Defensive Player of the Year honors, was being shut down for the rest of the season after he was diagnosed with a blood clot in his right shoulder.

San Antonio Express-News sportswriter Tom Osborn shared that the team was "optimistic he will recover in time to play next season."