Spurs Coach Gregg Popovich has released his first public statement since he suffered what the team called a “mild stroke.” Credit: San Antonio Spurs

San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich has broken his silence six weeks after being sidelined by what team officials have called a “minor stroke.”

In a brief media statement issued Monday, the winningest coach in NBA history said the health issue was an “unexpected” obstacle for him and his family.

“As we work together on my recovery, I want to take a moment to share that the outpouring of support we’ve received during this time has been truly overwhelming in the best possible way,” Popovich said. “While I wish I could get back to each one of you, for now, let me say that my family and I are forever grateful. We’re thankful for our wonderful community, the entire Spurs organization, and our family and friends.”

Neither Pop nor the Spurs organization said when he expects to return to coaching duties. Mitch Johnson, an assistant coach for the Spurs since 2019, has been leading the team in the interim.

“No one is more excited to see me return to the bench than the talented individuals who have been leading my rehabilitation process,” Popovich said. “They’ve quickly learned that I’m less than coachable.”

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This article appears in Dec 11-17, 2024.

Sanford Nowlin is editor-in-chief of the San Antonio Current. He holds degrees from Trinity University and the University of Texas at San Antonio, and his work has been featured in Salon, Alternet, Creative...