Getting to the San Antonio Spurs’ arena from Keldon Johnson’s ranch used to be a straightforward drive. But now, due to increased construction, it takes longer to get there.
San Antonio and the Spurs are experiencing growth and new energy, even before drafting Victor Wembanyama. Coach Gregg Popovich found this inspiring, especially enjoying coaching a young team after years with veterans.
Johnson, the Spurs’ longest-serving player at 25, follows Popovich’s example. They both arrived early at the arena on November 2, 2024.
Johnson was there for extra practice, and Popovich, then 75, was doing his pregame workout, a routine important for him during the season.
However, after his workout, Popovich suddenly stopped. Team staff noticed something was wrong and helped him.
They immediately had Popovich sit down.
Johnson heard the commotion and saw Popovich receiving medical attention.
‘I couldn’t see him,’ Johnson said, ‘But the way everyone was talking made it scary.’
Johnson tried to get closer, but team staff were already helping Popovich, eventually taking him by ambulance to a hospital. Only a few people knew what was happening.
‘Nobody really wanted to say anything,’ Johnson said. ‘The uncertainty was really hard.’
Reporters waited for Popovich’s pregame news conference, but he was late. Initially, it wasn’t unusual for him to be delayed. Sometimes he missed games for minor reasons, with an assistant coach filling in.
So, when Spurs spokesman Tom James announced that Popovich was ‘under the weather’ and assistant coach Mitch Johnson would lead the team that night, it didn’t immediately cause alarm.
But behind the scenes, the team began to realize that Popovich’s situation was serious, possibly life-threatening.
Doctors later determined Popovich had suffered a mild stroke. Players couldn’t speak to him for weeks, and it took months before he was able to walk and address the team.
‘It’s been tough for me,’ Johnson said. ‘He’s been our role model and leader.’
In the following months, the Spurs traded for De’Aaron Fox, Stephon Castle emerged as Rookie of the Year, and Wembanyama showed superstar potential before an injury.
Popovich, however, hasn’t coached since that night and won’t coach again this season. Harrison Barnes mentioned Popovich is recovering faster than expected, but it’s still uncertain if he will return next season.
This is a new situation for everyone. Popovich’s bond with the Spurs is deep, forming the foundation of the franchise. His sudden health issue made the long-discussed succession plan urgent, and decisions were no longer solely his to make.
For the first time in thirty years, Popovich is fighting to return to his central role with the team.
Popovich’s influence is everywhere in San Antonio. From Bird Bakery to Battalion restaurant, stories of Popovich are common.
Johnson recalls Popovich inviting him and rookies to a fancy dinner and encouraging them to try oysters as a test.
Popovich challenged Johnson further by inviting him to the national team camp and later to the Olympic team.
‘He’s really shaped who I am,’ Johnson said, emphasizing Popovich’s caring nature.
Popovich’s legacy is secure, marked by five championships during 22 playoff seasons. The Spurs’ training facility, The Rock, reflects his values.
Inside The Rock is Popovich’s coaching philosophy, The Stonecutter’s Credo, emphasizing perseverance.
Popovich believes he simply created an environment for success, but his impact is undeniable.
Former Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski calls Popovich one of the greatest coaches ever, admiring his leadership and values.
Krzyzewski, who planned his retirement, acknowledges Popovich’s ongoing passion for coaching, especially with the young Spurs team.
The Spurs believe ‘It’s Pop’s decision’ regarding his future, respecting his earned right to choose.
The Spurs’ succession plan has been evolving for years. Popovich annually decides if he wants to continue coaching, with the organization respecting his decision.
Many assistant coaches were considered potential successors, but Popovich remained. Last year, there was speculation about Steve Kerr taking over, but he re-signed with the Golden State Warriors.
Mitch Johnson became interim head coach in November. Despite a less prominent resume compared to others considered, Johnson is highly regarded in coaching circles.
Brook Lopez, Johnson’s former teammate, praised his high basketball IQ, calling him ‘maestro.’
Spurs’ spokesman Tom James introduced Mitch Johnson to the media before a game in Los Angeles, acknowledging his unfamiliarity to many.
The atmosphere was somber as news of Popovich’s stroke became clearer. The team learned the seriousness of his condition, creating uncertainty and concern.
Chris Paul spoke for the players before a game, expressing their support for Popovich and acknowledging his calming presence.
Mitch Johnson also spoke about Popovich’s impact and well-being before coaching the game.
The Spurs started strong in the game against the Clippers but eventually lost, affected by the emotional situation.
San Antonio and the Spurs operate quietly and deliberately. Leadership changes and organizational shifts happen with minimal public attention.
Ownership transitioned from Peter Holt to his family, with minority owners joining. These significant changes were handled discreetly, unlike in bigger media markets.
This is attributed to Popovich and CEO R.C. Buford, who have worked together for decades, and General Manager Brian Wright.
The Spurs communicate updates only when there is clarity, avoiding speculation.
They provided four updates on Popovich’s health since November 2nd: his absence from the LA trip, his mild stroke diagnosis, his statement of thanks and humor, and finally, his announcement that he wouldn’t return this season but hoped to coach in the future.
Popovich’s recovery progressed from hospital release to walking again. He stayed in contact with the team throughout.
Keldon Johnson noted Popovich’s continued engagement with the team through texts and calls, offering support and feedback.
In late January, Popovich addressed the team in person, but a full team meeting was delayed until February 27th due to scheduling and Victor Wembanyama’s injury.
On February 27th, Popovich informed the team he wouldn’t return this season but emphasized his continued observation and accountability.
‘Everyone shut up when he walked in,’ Johnson said, noting Popovich’s still-present demanding coaching style despite his recovery.
Popovich spoke about the future and his hope to return, emphasizing his commitment to being ‘100% himself’ to effectively lead.
De’Aaron Fox emphasized that Popovich’s health is the priority and admired his fight to return.
Fox expressed his desire to be coached by Popovich, appreciating his engaging and impactful communication style.
Despite changes in San Antonio, some things remain constant. People connected to the Spurs often return to the city, creating a lasting community.
Monty Williams, Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili, and Tony Parker are examples of figures who have maintained ties with San Antonio and the Spurs after different career phases.
This enduring culture is part of the ‘Spurs Way,’ created by Popovich. The question is how this culture will evolve without his direct leadership.
This question has been present for years, yet it remains difficult to imagine the Spurs without Popovich.
However, Popovich has gradually delegated coaching duties to assistants and made personal changes, like moving to a new home in Southtown.
In his Hall of Fame speech, Popovich acknowledged personal challenges and expressed gratitude for his family, emphasizing his wife Erin’s role and his daughter Jill’s support.
Popovich’s current fight is to return to his life, his team, and his city, and to decide his future on his own terms.
