Spurs’ Gregg Popovich expected to make a ‘full recovery’ after suffering a mild stroke

CNN
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Gregg Popovich, the N.B.A‘s winningest coach of all time suffered a mild stroke on November 2 San Antonio Spurs said Wednesday.

Popovich has since been out of action due to an undisclosed health issue.

San Antonio said the incident took place at the Frost Bank Center, the Spurs’ home arena. Popovich has begun rehabilitation and is expected to make a full recovery, the team said.

“At this time, no timeline has been set for his return to the sidelines. During this time, the organization is grateful to the extended community for providing privacy and space for the Popovich family.”

Spurs assistant coach Mitch Johnson is interim head coach.

“I would say he’s doing well,” Johnson told reporters after the Spurs’ Nov. 7 game against the Portland Trail Blazers. ‘We talked. I have my hands full with this and am trying to stay above water. So I haven’t discussed any details yet and I’m not sure about anything.”

Spurs star Victor Wembanyama was optimistic about his coach’s condition after the match against the Blazers.

“We don’t hear much from Pop,” he told reporters after the game. ‘They keep us informed, as much as we are allowed to know. So I’m not worried about him. I know he’ll be back soon. We don’t talk to him directly very often.”

Popovich, 75, is the oldest head coach in NBA history. Currently in his 29th season – all of which he spent with the Spurs – he has amassed 1,390 regular season wins, an NBA record. He has won 170 postseason games and five NBA championships.

The Spurs host the Washington Wizards on Wednesday.