SAN ANTONIO — The San Antonio Spurs are unsure when, or if, Gregg Popovich will return as coach this NBA season.
Popovich suffered an undisclosed medical episode last Saturday about 2 1/2 hours prior to the Spurs’ home game against Minnesota.
Article continues after this advertisementSan Antonio acting head coach Mitch Johnson said Popovich was “not feeling well,” but would not elaborate on what happened hours earlier.
FEATURED STORIES SPORTS RESULTS: PBA Finals Ginebra vs TNT Game 6 November 8 SPORTS TNT repeats over Ginebra to retain its PBA Governors' Cup crown SPORTS Jayson Castro wins third PBA Finals MVP for TNT at 38Popovich has missed three games since, including Thursday’s home game against Portland.
When asked if there was any clarity about Popovich returning this season, Johnson could not provide an answer.
Article continues after this advertisement“I would say that … he’s doing good,” Johnson said Thursday. “We’ve been talking. I’ve had my hands full with this, in trying to stay above water. So, have not talked details and I’m not sure, about anything … that I’m … no details.”
Article continues after this advertisementSpurs star Victor Wembanyama said the players have not had much contact with Popovich, but they expect him to return soon.
Article continues after this advertisement“We don’t hear a lot from Pop,” Wembanyama said after t he Spurs’ 118-105 win. “They keep us informed as much as we’re allowed to know. So, I’m not worried about him. I know he’s going to come back soon.”
Popovich is the oldest coach in NBA history at 75 years old. In 2020, he surpassed the previous mark held by Hubie Brown as a 71-year-old in his final game as Memphis’ head coach.
Article continues after this advertisementPopovich is the NBA’s career leader with 1,390 victories and another 170 postseason wins while winning five NBA titles. He is in his 29th season, all with San Antonio.
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