Gregg Popovich reflects on stroke recovery after being sidelined from Spurs games
Gregg Popovich has not been with the San Antonio Spurs since November. The legendary coach was sidelined before the Spurs's game against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Nov. 2.
Over a month after being abruptly sidelined for health reasons, Popovich finally released a statement addressed to his well-wishers. The Spurs posted it on their X (formerly Twitter) handle, and Pop wrote that he and his family were thankful for their support during this difficult time.
The five-time NBA champion coach hilariously added that he had been so uncoachable for the doctors helping him rehab that even they wanted him to recover as soon as possible.
"This has certainly been an unexpected six weeks for my family and me." the statement on behalf of Gregg Popovich read. "As we work together on my recovery, I want to take a moment to share that the outpouring of support we've received during this time has been truly overwhelming in the best possible way."
"While I wish I could get back to each one of you, for now, let me say that my family and I are forever grateful. We're thankful for our wonderful community, the entire Spurs organization, and our family and friends."
"No one is more excited to see me return to the bench than the talented individuals who have been leading my rehabilitation process. They've quickly learned that I'm less than coachable."
San Antonio's assistant coach Mitch Johnson had spoken to the reporters before the game on Nov. 2. Without disclosing the details, Johnson said Gregg Popovich 'just wasn't feeling well.'
On Nov. 6, ESPN's Shams Charania reported that Popovich's health issue was more serious than previously believed. A week later, the Spurs issued a statement revealing that Coach Pop had "suffered a mild stroke."
Victor Wembanyama details the team's communication with Gregg Popovich
While Gregg Popovich makes his recovery after the mild heart stroke, it seems like he has been taking his time away from the team while Johnson continues to handle the head coach's responsibility.
Spurs star Victor Wembanyama stated how the team communicated with their coach while he was away. Wemby told Tom Orsborn that the players do not hear from Popovich often, but they always get an update about his health.
"We don't hear a lot from Pop, but let's say they keep us informed as much as we're allowed to know," Wembanyama said. "So, I'm not worried about him. I know he's going to come back soon. But no, we're not talking to him directly that much."
Gregg Popovich holds the record for the most wins by a coach in the NBA. He has won five NBA titles, the last being in 2013-14 with his Spurs team defeating LeBron James and the Miami Heat.
He has consistently won the Coach of the Year Award three times in his career. Last year, Pop was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame as a coach.