Gregg Popovich steps down as Spurs coach: What’s next for San Antonio?

Gregg Popovich Steps Down as Spurs Coach: What’s Next for San Antonio?

Spurs transition into new era under Mitch Johnson with Wembanyama, Castle, and Fox at the core

After nearly three decades on the sidelines, Gregg Popovich is stepping down as head coach of the San Antonio Spurs, ending a Hall of Fame career that includes five NBA titles, three Coach of the Year awards, and an NBA-record 1,422 regular-season wins. At age 76, Popovich will transition into a full-time role as president of basketball operations, formally passing the torch to longtime assistant Mitch Johnson.

With rising stars Victor Wembanyama, Stephon Castle, and De’Aaron Fox headlining the roster, the Spurs appear poised to re-enter the Western Conference playoff race — and perhaps much more.

Why now? Popovich's health and vision for the future

Popovich had long said he’d only continue coaching if he physically could. After suffering a mild stroke in November and spending months weighing the decision, the legendary coach opted to focus on front office leadership while supporting Johnson from above.

“He took a lot of losses he didn’t have to take,” said one league executive. “It was a very unselfish act. He’s left the team set up for success.”

Popovich’s fingerprints remain all over the Spurs — not just in their on-court culture, but in Johnson’s coaching development, which has been years in the making.

Who is Mitch Johnson?

The 37-year-old head coach is far from an unknown in NBA circles. A former Stanford point guard nicknamed “Maestro” by college teammate Brook Lopez, Johnson began his coaching career with the Spurs’ G League affiliate before spending six seasons under Popovich, including the last five at the front of the bench.

He’s widely respected across the league for his high basketball IQ, calm leadership, and player-first communication style. Former Spurs guard Dejounte Murray credits Johnson with helping turn his life around as a teenager — a bond that helped earn Johnson a full-time NBA role.

“I trust the organization,” Wembanyama said. “And I trust Mitch to grow into that role.”

Johnson stepped in admirably after Popovich’s health scare, leading the Spurs through a chaotic season that included road trips, health setbacks, and a young, evolving roster.

What does the Spurs' offseason look like?

1. Draft capital and lottery stakes

The Spurs own two lottery picks: their own (6% chance at No. 1 from the 8th slot) and Atlanta’s top-14 protected pick (0.7% chance at No. 1). With multiple first-round picks in the years ahead — including Atlanta’s unprotected 2027 first-rounder — San Antonio is loaded with future assets.

2. Key contract milestones

• De’Aaron Fox is eligible to sign a 4-year, $229 million max extension on August 3.

• Chris Paul, who played all 82 games this season, will hit free agency.

3. Trade flexibility

With big contracts on the books (Devin Vassell, Keldon Johnson, Harrison Barnes), the Spurs are well-positioned to make a blockbuster trade if stars like Kevin Durant or Giannis Antetokounmpo become available.

Can the Spurs make the playoffs next season?

Yes — and they should.

• San Antonio went 21–25 in the 46 games Wembanyama played, including a five-game sample with Fox before Wembanyama was sidelined with a shoulder blood clot.

• With Castle winning Rookie of the Year and a lottery pick on the way, this is a team ready to transition from rebuild to postseason push.

The Western Conference is stacked, but recent history suggests that spots open up. Houston and Memphis broke through this season while New Orleans and Phoenix stumbled. If Wembanyama stays healthy and Johnson continues to grow into his role, a play-in spot is the floor — and a top-six seed is a realistic target.

The Popovich legacy continues — just not from the bench

This isn’t a clean break — it’s a strategic evolution. Popovich remains the architect of the Spurs' future, guiding personnel decisions and mentoring Johnson behind the scenes. The team culture he helped build will endure in Johnson’s approach, and in a core that’s been developed the “Spurs way.”

The NBA’s longest-tenured coach may no longer patrol the sidelines, but his influence is far from over in San Antonio.

Stay tuned to The Horizons Times for continued coverage of the Spurs' new era, NBA offseason trades, and the road to the 2026 playoffs.