The San Antonio Spurs named assistant coach Mitch Johnson acting head coach after Gregg Popovich stepped away from the team indefinitely due to health concerns, marking a significant shift for the 3-3 team.
Johnson immediately proved his readiness, guiding the Spurs to a 113-110 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves in his debut.
“Mitch did a great job, man. I think our whole coaching staff did,” Spurs guard Chris Paul said. “Things happen in this league all the time, and just like with the players, it’s next man up. So, shoutout to Mitch; he did a great job tonight.”
The mid-season transition joins several notable coaching changes in recent NBA history:
Steve Kerr stepped away from the Golden State Warriors for 43 games during the 2015-16 season due to complications from back surgery. Assistant Luke Walton led the team to a 39-4 record in his absence.
Dallas Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle abruptly resigned in June 2021 after 13 seasons, shocking the organization just days after the departure of longtime general manager Donnie Nelson.
Los Angeles Lakers coach Pat Riley famously stepped down just before the 1990-91 season, announcing his decision at a news conference days before the season opener. Assistant Mike Dunleavy took over, leading the team to the NBA Finals.
Johnson, a Seattle native who joined the Spurs’ coaching staff in 2019, brings both playing and coaching experience to his new role. He played collegiate basketball at Stanford University, where he earned a sociology degree, before spending three years as a professional player including time in the NBA G League.
His promotion comes as the Spurs navigate a season of transition, featuring rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama and emerging star Jeremy Sochan. The team’s .500 start has exceeded early expectations, with young players showing significant development under the established Spurs system.
Johnson’s familiarity with the organization’s culture and development philosophy positions him to maintain continuity during Popovich’s absence. The Spurs have not announced a timeline for Popovich’s return.
The acting head coach inherits a roster blending veteran leadership, including Paul’s experience, with promising young talent. His previous role in player development could prove crucial as the Spurs continue nurturing their next generation of stars.
Johnson’s elevation represents the latest chapter in the Spurs’ long-standing tradition of developing coaches from within their organization. The franchise has historically promoted assistants who demonstrate strong teaching abilities and understanding of the team’s systematic approach to basketball.
