Gregg Popovich publicly addressed the media for the first time since experiencing a stroke six months ago. During a press event where the San Antonio Spurs unveiled Mitch Johnson as his successor, Popovich stated that the time was appropriate for this transition.

Accompanied by Spurs legends Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobili, the 76-year-old coach, speaking more softly than usual, reassured that his health was on the mend and expressed total confidence in Johnson’s capabilities.

“Things are getting better by the day, but it’s not good enough for what we plan ahead,” Popovich remarked. “So, it’s time to make this change.”

Popovich will continue with the Spurs as the team president, with no alterations to the organization’s leadership, which includes CEO R.C. Buford and general manager Brian Wright, as well as retaining the team’s core values.

“That’s the goal, to make sure we keep it going,” Popovich added, highlighting his commitment to assist Johnson in the future.

The longtime coach humorously stripped off his jacket to reveal a T-shirt that introduced his new title: “El jefe,” which translates to “the boss” in Spanish.

Johnson previously stepped in as interim coach for a majority of the season, ending with a 32-45 tally. He joined the Spurs organization in 2019, initially as an assistant, before Popovich’s health challenges affected the team. The Spurs had been at a record of 23-29 prior to the injury of young star Victor Wembanyama, the recipient of the 2023-2024 Rookie of the Year award, due to a shoulder blood clot.