SAN ANTONIO (May 2025) – A monumental chapter in NBA history has closed as Gregg Popovich, the winningest coach in league history and a San Antonio icon, has officially stepped down as head coach of the Spurs, transitioning into his new role as President of Basketball Operations. With this move, longtime assistant and interim head coach Mitch Johnson has been named his successor.

The news, while not entirely unexpected, marks a pivotal moment for the franchise as it looks to the future with a new generation of talent, leadership, and ambition.

A Legacy That Casts a Long Shadow

Gregg Popovich led the Spurs for 29 seasons, capturing five NBA championships and setting a gold standard for sustained excellence, team-first culture, and player development. His influence shaped not only the team but also the league, nurturing stars like Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, Manu Ginóbili, and more recently, helping mold young talent like Victor Wembanyama.

Popovich’s departure from the bench is both emotional and inspiring. Rather than completely exiting the organization, he remains at the helm in a front-office role, ensuring his values, vision, and leadership will still guide the Spurs.

Mitch Johnson: The Next Chapter

Taking over as the 19th head coach in Spurs history, Mitch Johnson is no stranger to the team. He joined the Spurs system in 2016 and served as an assistant coach for the G League affiliate, Austin Spurs, where he helped lead them to a G League title in 2018. Over the last six years, he’s been a trusted voice on Popovich’s bench.

Johnson stepped in as acting head coach for the majority of the 2024-25 season after Popovich took a medical leave. His familiarity with the team and its culture makes him a natural successor, but the transition won’t be without pressure.

Building Around Wemby

At the center of the team’s future is 7’4” phenom Victor Wembanyama. The French superstar’s rookie season was filled with jaw-dropping highlights, defensive dominance, and flashes of brilliance. Johnson’s most critical task will be continuing Wemby’s development while surrounding him with a strong supporting cast.

The Spurs have cap space, a cache of draft picks, and a reputation for patient team-building. Now under Johnson’s leadership, they’ll be expected to blend that long-term vision with more immediate competitiveness.

A Cultural Shift or Continuation?

While Mitch Johnson brings a new voice, many expect the Spurs’ core philosophy to remain intact. Popovich’s fingerprints are all over the organization — from the scouting process to the way the team communicates and trains. Johnson, having spent nearly a decade learning directly from the legend, is poised to honor that legacy while putting his own stamp on the team.

Final Thoughts

The post-Popovich era has officially begun, but don’t expect the Spurs to drift far from the values that made them one of the most respected organizations in sports. With Mitch Johnson at the helm, Pop still in the building, and Wembanyama rising to superstardom, San Antonio has a rare opportunity: to evolve without losing its soul.

The torch has been passed — and the flame still burns bright.