Gregg Popovich
Resurfaces To Support New Spurs Head Coach
… Addresses Health
Published
San Antonio Spurs
Gregg Popovich spoke at length for the first time since his recent medical emergency … saying he’s getting better every day, but not fast enough to continue leading the San Antonio Spurs.
The five-time NBA Finals-winning coach took the podium before Mitch Johnson was introduced as his official replacement on Monday … and had his two longtime players, Manu Ginobili and Tim Duncan, by his side.
76-year-old Pop — who suffered a mild stroke in November and another health scare at a local restaurant last month — spent the majority of his time thanking those who assisted him over his nearly 30-year tenure on the bench.
He also addressed how he’s doing since the stroke … claiming “things are getting better by the day, but it’s not good enough for what we plan ahead,” so a change in leadership was necessary.
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He did not go into detail on his dinner that resulted in a trip to the hospital.
Pop mentioned everyone in the organization — former players, coaches, ticket salespeople, in-game entertainers and more during his speech … saying, “We all have a part in this.”
Pop also noted the folks who have helped him with rehab — and some were even present for the event.
When discussing his successor, Popovich said Johnson is fully capable of giving 100% every single day … which the team needs at this time.
He also praised Johnson for the job he did in his absence this season … which he admitted were difficult circumstances to be thrown into.
As for his new role as team president, Pop made it clear he’s in a lighthearted mood over it all … taking off his track jacket to reveal a shirt that read “El Jefe” and “Señor Popovich, President of Basketball Ops.”
Pop gave Johnson a hug as he left the stage … officially passing the torch and starting a new era in San Antonio.
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