Basketball Hall of Famer Gregg Popovich addressed his health publicly for the first time since suffering a stroke six months prior during a news conference to formally introduce Mitch Johnson as his replacement as the San Antonio Spurs' head coach on Monday (May 5).
Popovich, who was joined by former players Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobili, said his health is improving but believes "it's time" to walk away from the bench, giving his full endorsement of Johnson as his successor.
"Things are getting better by the day, but it's not good enough for what we plan ahead," Popovich said via ESPN. "So, it's time to make this change."
Popovich, 76, the NBA's all-time winningest coach, has been on a leave of absence from coaching since suffering what was described as a "mild stroke" in November. The Spurs formally announced his decision to step down and transition to a full-time role as team president last Friday (May 2).
"While my love and passion for the game remain, I've decided it's time to step away as head coach," Popovich said in a statement shared by the team. "I'm forever grateful to the wonderful players, coaches, staff and fans who allowed me to serve them as the Spurs head coach and am excited for the opportunity to continue to support the organization, community and city that are so meaningful to me."
Johnson was promoted to interim head coach and led the team to a 32-45 record in Popovich's absence, despite losing franchise center Victor Wembanyama, who was diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis in his right shoulder, in February.