Why Gregg Popovich isn't coaching the Spurs against the Clippers and Rockets

Gregg Popovich will unfortunately miss some time as head coach of the San Antonio Spurs before an upcoming road trip.

According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the head coach “suffered a health issue” before a recent game. He will miss an indefinite period, including upcoming games against the Clippers and and the Rockets.

Mitch Johnson, an assistant coach for the Spurs, will take over as the interim head coach as the 75-year-old Popovich recovers from what is currently an undisclosed illness. He is reportedly “OK” but “just needs rest” at this point, per Tom Osborn.

San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich suffered a health issue before Saturday’s game and assistant Mitch Johnson is expected to be the interim head coach for indefinite period, including Monday vs. Clippers and Wednesday vs. Rockets, sources tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/qqdDtyc2GJ

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) November 4, 2024

Johnson spoke about the responsibility before he filled in for Popovich on Saturday (via NBA.com):

“He’s not feeling well,” Johnson said. “This has happened before. I think everybody’s just always got to be ready for the next man up. We’ve had it with injuries and sometimes people get sick or don’t feel well or things come up in life. He’s just not feeling well.”

Popovich is a five-time NBA champion and three-time NBA Coach of the Year.