Gregg Popovich retires: Who will replace him as head coach of the Spurs?

The San Antonio Spurs have endured a challenging NBA season. They failed to secure a postseason spot, which was disappointing. However, the franchise continues to show stability and a strong commitment to its future. Gregg Popovich retired as head coach after facing health problems. His departure raised doubts among fans, who feared the team would abandon its long-term vision. Now, the Spurs seem to have made a decision on who will take over as head coach next season.

According to Shams Charania, the San Antonio Spurs already have a new head coach after Gregg Popovich’s retirement. The franchise chose Mitch Johnson, who has worked within the organization since 2016. He started as an assistant with the Austin Spurs. Then, in 2019, he joined the San Antonio bench. He also served as interim head coach during Popovich’s absences. As a result, the Spurs decided to maintain continuity by putting Mitch in charge.

This decision is great news for Victor Wembanyama and De’Aaron Fox. Both players already built strong chemistry with Mitch. They will not need to adapt to a new coaching system. Therefore, they will have another chance to showcase their offensive talent. While other teams like the Denver Nuggets are starting new projects, San Antonio are choosing a different path. The Spurs are betting on stability and long-term growth by trusting someone from within.

Do the San Antonio Spurs have long-term potential to become an NBA powerhouse?

Victor Wembanyama’s arrival in the 2023–24 season marked a turning point for the Spurs. The franchise began building a project focused on young talent. They bet on players with the potential to make a long-term impact. Stephon Castle is a perfect example. The rookie impressed with his performance all year. As a result, he earned the Rookie of the Year award. His rise confirms the team’s exciting future.

Head coach Mitch Johnson of the San Antonio Spurs converses with De’Aaron Fox #4 against the Atlanta Hawks during the second quarter at State Farm Arena on February 05, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia.

To strengthen the core, the Spurs brought in De’Aaron Fox. Despite being only 27, he adds experience to one of the youngest lineups in the league. An injury kept him from showing his best early on. However, his steady track record gives the team hope. They see him as the experienced leader this young group needs. In his most last game, he scored 32 points. That strong finish gives fans hope that next season could be even better for him.

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If Mitch Johnson keeps young players like Victor Wembanyama and Stephon Castle performing well, the Spurs could thrive for years. But the team must find defensive consistency. That remains Johnson’s biggest challenge. Still, this bet on continuity makes sense. Gregg Popovich spent 29 years in the role, and Johnson grew up inside the franchise.