San Antonio Spurs confirm coach Gregg Popovich has suffered stroke as fans wish NBA icon a full recovery
The San Antonio Spurs have confirmed legendary coach Gregg Popovich is recovering after he suffered a 'mild stroke' on November 2.
The 75-year-old has missed the Spurs' last six games with what was originally described as an undisclosed health issue.
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The team provided a diagnosis and update on his status on Wednesday, confirming that the coach suffered the stroke at the team's arena.
"The San Antonio Spurs today announced that head coach Gregg Popovich has suffered a mild stroke," the statement read.
"Popovich, who has already started a rehabilitation program, is expected to make a full recovery.
"At this point, a timeline for his return to the sidelines has not been determined."
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The NBA's official website had previously reported that Popovich suffered an undisclosed medical episode about two and a half hours prior to the Spurs’ 113-103 home win against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Following the news of his stroke, basketball fans have been sending messages of support, wishing the coach a full recovery.
"Get well soon, legend. We love you," one person wrote on X.
"Sending my best to Coach Pop," another said, while a third added: "Much love Pop. Get better soon."
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At 75 years old, Popovich is the oldest coach in NBA history.
He is one of only three people to win the NBA coach of the year award three times, alongside Don Nelson and Pat Riley.
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Popovich has also won the most games of head coaches with 1,390 victories and another 170 postseason wins.
He’s one of five coaches with at least five NBA titles - Phil Jackson (11), Red Auerbach (9), John Kundla (5) and Riley (5) are the others.
Throughout Popovich's absence, Mitch Johnson has served as the Spurs' acting head coach, and the team have gone 3-3 in that time.
Star Victor Wembanyama has revealed the players have not had much contact with Popovich, but they expect him to return soon.
"We don’t hear a lot from Pop,” Wembanyama said after the 118-105 win over the Blazers on November 7.
“They keep us informed as much as we’re allowed to know.
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"So, I’m not worried about him. I know he’s going to come back soon.”
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