Gregg Popovich Steps Down as Head Coach of the San Antonio Spurs, Will Remain as Team President

First reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania, San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich will no longer return to the sidelines for the NBA team. He will now transition into the role of full-time president for the organization. The five-time championship-winning coach released a statement this morning to make the announcement.

“While my love and passion for the game remain, I’ve decided it’s time to step away as head coach,” Popovich said in a statement released by the Spurs. “I’m forever grateful to the wonderful players, coaches, staff, and fans who allowed me to serve them as the Spurs head coach, and am excited for the opportunity to continue to support the organization, community, and city that are so meaningful to me.”

Coach Pop transitions to Spurs President of Basketball Operations pic.twitter.com/q8HwqDTB53

— San Antonio Spurs (@spurs) May 2, 2025

After nearly 30 years and a legacy like no other, the NBA will feel the absence of Coach Pop on the sidelines — just as we all did this past season. According to Marc Stein, a successor has already been selected.

Interim coach Mitch Johnson is expected to be named the new head coach, with an official announcement coming soon. Coach Pop ends his career with three Coach of the Year awards, four All-Star head coach honors, and five NBA championships. He finishes with a career record of 1,422 wins and 867 losses.

After 29 years, a legacy has been cemented — and the impact will forever be felt.