Gregg Popovich Officially Passes the Torch to Mitch Johnson: “It’s Time to Make This Change”
It’s the end of an era in San Antonio — and the beginning of a new one. After nearly three decades as head coach of the Spurs, Gregg Popovich formally introduced Mitch Johnson as his successor Monday in an emotional and symbolic passing of the torch.
Popovich, 76, made his first public appearance since suffering a stroke six months ago. Flanked by Spurs legends Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobili, Popovich offered words of encouragement and support for Johnson, the newly appointed head coach.
“Things are getting better by the day, but it’s not good enough for what we plan ahead,” Popovich said. “So, it’s time to make this change.”
Though stepping down as coach, Popovich isn’t going far. He’ll remain with the franchise as team president, continuing to shape the culture and direction of the organization — a team he’s helped mold since 1996 into one of the NBA’s most respected dynasties.
As he brought Johnson to the podium, Popovich removed his blazer to reveal a T-shirt that read “El Jefe,” Spanish for “The Boss.”
“I’m no longer coach,” he said with a smile. “I’m ‘El Jefe.’”
The news conference was filled with reflection and gratitude. Popovich thanked the Spurs’ community — from players and fans to ticket sellers and janitors — for their support during his recovery and over his storied career.
“We all have a part in this,” he said. “It’s not just the players and the coaches.”
Johnson, 38, served as Popovich’s assistant and led the team through the final 77 games of the 2024–25 season after Popovich’s stroke. His promotion was made official last week, and Monday marked his first appearance as head coach. With humility and emotion, Johnson acknowledged the weight of the moment.
“I am honored by this opportunity and even more humbled by the people that I’ll be able to partner with and serve,” he said.
When asked how he would carry on Popovich’s legacy, Johnson said he had no intention of imitating his mentor.
“I can’t be him or ‘El Jefe,’” Johnson said. “But I can commit and invest in people and relationships — that’s what he did better than anyone. I’ll try to do it my own way.”
Popovich, the NBA’s all-time wins leader and a five-time champion, coached the Spurs through iconic eras featuring players like Duncan, Ginobili, and Tony Parker. His legacy, however, extends beyond basketball — into leadership, mentorship, and culture.
He joked about Duncan and Ginobili attending his rehab workouts, claiming they were more interested in “payback” than support.
“They say it’s because they love me… but they’re not fooling anybody,” Popovich quipped.
The event closed with Popovich reiterating that while titles may change, the Spurs’ core values — accountability, consistency, and community — remain the same.
“The theme of the book isn’t changing,” Johnson said. “We’re just writing new chapters.”
As the Spurs look ahead to a future led by rising star Victor Wembanyama and guided by a new coach, one thing is clear: the foundation Popovich built is as strong as ever.
