Spurs Coach Gregg Popovich Suffered Mild Stroke in Early November — Will Be Away from Team for Indefinite Period of Time

San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich suffered a mild stroke in early November that will keep him away from the team for an indefinite period of time.

On Nov. 2, ESPN reported that Popovich missed the team’s game that day due to an undisclosed illness. Just two days later, it was announced that the 75-year-old would be taking an indefinite leave from the team with a “health issue.” The team had not given any further details, and assistant coach Mitch Johnson assumed the role of head coach in Popovich’s absence.

Although public details on Popovich’s health were scarce, Spurs star Victor Wembanyama said days later that the team was “informed as much as we’re allowed to know.” He also claimed he wasn’t worried about his coach and expects to see him back on the sideline “soon.”

On Wednesday, the Spurs revealed in a statement that the undisclosed illness was a mild stroke. It actually happened when Popovich was at the arena before the game.

“The San Antonio Spurs today announced that Head Coach Gregg Popovich has suffered a mild stroke,” the statement read. “The episode occurred on Nov. 2 at the Frost Bank Center. Popovich, who has already started a rehabilitation program, is expected to make a full recovery. At this point, a timeline for his return to the sidelines has not been determined. During this time, the organization is grateful to the extended community for providing privacy and space to the Popovich family.”

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