Gregg Popovich retires as Spurs head coach after 29 years; Mitch Johnson named successor. Updates on Becky Hammon, Ime Udoka, and Richard Jefferson.


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🏀 Gregg Popovich Steps Down as Spurs Head Coach

After an illustrious 29-year tenure, Gregg Popovich has stepped down as the head coach of the San Antonio Spurs. He will continue with the organization as the president of basketball operations. This decision follows a mild stroke he suffered in November 2024. Popovich leaves behind a legacy of five NBA championships and a record 1,422 regular-season victories, solidifying his status as one of the most successful coaches in NBA history.

đź§  Mitch Johnson Named Full-Time Head Coach of the Spurs

Mitch Johnson, who served as acting head coach during Popovich's absence, has been officially appointed as the Spurs' head coach. At 38, Johnson becomes the franchise's 19th head coach. He has been with the Spurs organization since 2016, initially joining as an assistant coach and later stepping in as interim head coach during Popovich's absences. Under his leadership, the Spurs posted a 34-48 record in the 2024-25 season, with players praising his steady character and leadership.

🏆 Becky Hammon Commits to Las Vegas Aces

Becky Hammon, head coach of the Las Vegas Aces and former Spurs assistant, has reaffirmed her commitment to the Aces amidst speculation about a potential return to the NBA. She expressed her happiness with her current role in the WNBA and did not rule out future opportunities in the NBA.

🚀 Ime Udoka Leads Houston Rockets to Playoff Success

Ime Udoka, head coach of the Houston Rockets, has guided the team to a competitive playoff run. Under his leadership, the Rockets have forced a Game 7 against the Golden State Warriors in the first round of the NBA playoffs. Udoka's coaching style has been praised for its strategic approach, drawing comparisons to the intensity and versatility of players like Draymond Green. Chron

🎙️ Richard Jefferson Joins ESPN's Lead NBA Broadcast Team

Former NBA player and Spurs forward Richard Jefferson has been promoted to ESPN's lead NBA broadcast team. He will join Mike Breen and Doris Burke to cover the 2025 NBA Finals, marking his first time in this prestigious broadcasting role.

FAQ

Gregg Popovich announced his retirement from coaching on May 2, 2025, transitioning to the role of president of basketball operations for the San Antonio Spurs.

Popovich decided to step down due to health concerns, including a mild stroke he suffered in November 2024, and to focus on a less demanding role within the organization.

Mitch Johnson is a former assistant coach for the Spurs who has been with the organization since 2016. He was named the head coach following Popovich's retirement.

Becky Hammon is the head coach of the Las Vegas Aces in the WNBA and has reaffirmed her commitment to the team amidst speculation about a return to the NBA.

Under head coach Ime Udoka, the Houston Rockets have shown significant improvement, forcing a Game 7 against the Golden State Warriors in the first round of the 2025 NBA playoffs.

Richard Jefferson has been promoted to ESPN's lead NBA broadcast team, joining Mike Breen and Doris Burke to cover the 2025 NBA Finals.

Gregg Popovich led the San Antonio Spurs to five NBA championships during his tenure as head coach.

Mitch Johnson's promotion maintains continuity within the Spurs organization, as he has been part of the team's coaching staff since 2016 and is familiar with its culture and values.

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