Spurs forward Gregg Popovich expects to make a “full recovery” after suffering a minor stroke

CNN
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Gregg Popovich, the NBA’s all-time winningest coach, suffered a mild stroke on Nov. 2, the San Antonio Spurs announced Wednesday.

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

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

“At this point there is no timetable 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 has stepped in as 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’ve had my hands full trying to stay afloat. So I haven’t discussed any details and I’m not sure about anything.”

Spurs star Victor Wembanyama was optimistic about his coach’s condition after the game 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 will come back soon. We don’t talk to him directly that often.”

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

The Spurs host the Washington Wizards on Wednesday.