San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich, the NBA’s all-time leader in coaching wins, will not return to the sidelines for the remainder of the season. However, the legendary coach has not ruled out a return in the future.
Popovich, 76, suffered a stroke at the Spurs’ home arena on November 2 and has been away from the team ever since. After meeting with the organization on Thursday, he released a statement confirming his decision to remain out for the rest of the year while expressing optimism about coaching again.
“This was not an easy decision, but the right one for my health and long-term future,” Popovich said. “I’m incredibly grateful for the support from the Spurs organization, our players, and the entire NBA community. My focus remains on recovery, and I look forward to the possibility of returning when the time is right.”
In Popovich’s absence, assistant coach Brett Brown has led the young Spurs squad through a challenging season. San Antonio, featuring No. 1 overall pick Victor Wembanyama, has struggled in the ultra-competitive Western Conference, but the franchise remains hopeful that Popovich’s eventual return could help steer the team’s rebuild.
A staple of the NBA for nearly three decades, Popovich has won five championships with the Spurs and is widely regarded as one of the greatest coaches in league history. His future remains uncertain, but for now, the basketball world will be watching—and hoping—that he finds his way back to the bench when he’s ready.
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