May 2nd, 2025- a day for the history books. Gregg Popovich’s 29-year reign as the San Antonio Spurs boss has come to an end. What did he retire with? The most wins of any coach in NBA history (1,422), 5 NBA championships, and 3 NBA Coach of the Year awards. But as one of the league’s top dogs, you have to always look ahead. And San Antonio wasted no time to announce their newest head coach – assistant coach Mitch Johnson.

Honestly, who better than the mentee? Johnson has been a part of their program since 2016, and even had a taste of the job for a bit during Pop’s time out due to health concerns. The Spurs probably had their most underwhelming season in years. It was mostly down to Popovich’s scare back in November, but SA knew they had to get the deal done in double quick time. Well, Shams Charania announced Popovich’s retirement an hour before he announced Johnson’s new role. Crazy, right?

This really emulates Pop’s career as the Spurs HC in itself. The veteran coach himself started out as the Texan team’s assistant in 1988, before being promoted to the top job in 1996. Then followed a period of success that, with all due respect to Mitch, is hard to emulate. But a new chapter in franchise history has begun, led by a fresh, young core that includes Wembanyama, mid-season trade acquisition De’Aaron Fox, and a new head coach in Mitch Johnson.

But what about Gregg Popovich? Does he retire and put his NBA life in the rear-view mirror, or does the 76-year-old have more to offer? He did have a mild stroke back in November. But Coach Pop isn’t done yet – or do we call him by his new title- Prez Pop.

Gregg Popovich transitioned to full-time as President of San Antonio Spurs

The legacy of Pops lives on. Our resident Santa Claus isn’t done with the Association yet. Just when we thought he was gonna hang up the virtual sneakers, he got promoted to Team President. But should he have hung them up anyway? His stroke in November caught the NBA off guard.

After a few months of reasonably good health, Popovich collapsed at a steakhouse in April and was brought to the hospital. He was released soon after, but it did point to a potential relief of duties soon enough. This was around the time Mitch took over as the interim coach, leading the Spurs to an overall record of 34-48.

“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,” said Gregg Popovich in his message, signing off as possibly the greatest NBA coach of all time.

Honestly, this change was a long time coming. But despite the Spurs’ disappointing overall decade so far, there’s no stain on Pop’s legacy. And that legacy lives on – with his new role as the San Antonio Spurs‘ team president.