Gregg Popovich, head coach of the San Antonio Spurs, is back home and in good condition after being hospitalized due to a medical emergency at a restaurant on Tuesday night, per ESPN’s Shams Charania. The 76-year-old, who previously suffered a mild stroke in November, was transported to the hospital via stretcher but remained alert throughout the process, according to TMZ.
Popovich, the NBA’s all-time winningest coach with 1,412 regular-season and 170 playoff wins, has been sidelined since November and did not return this season. He had signed a five-year extension with the Spurs in 2023.
Assistant coach Mitch Johnson took over in Popovich’s absence, leading the team to a 31-45 finish. The season was also impacted by injuries to key players—Victor Wembanyama was sidelined due to a blood clot in his shoulder, and newly acquired guard De’Aaron Fox missed the final stretch with a finger injury.
Although there’s been uncertainty about Popovich’s future with the team, those close to him say he’s shown interest in returning for a 30th season. Johnson noted that the Spurs staff has a collaborative offseason plan in place, while emphasizing that Popovich’s health remains the top priority.
Popovich shared an emotional message with the team in late February, confirming he would not return this season but hoped to coach again in the future. As one of only three coaches to win NBA Coach of the Year three times and among five to earn five or more championships, Popovich’s potential return remains significant for the franchise.
Victor Wembanyama voiced support for both Popovich and Johnson, expressing trust in the organization’s decision-making and its focus on long-term success.