This season has been a tough one for the San Antonio Spurs, as they faced a huge blow early on with the absence of Gregg Popovich. The NBA community was stunned when news broke that the 76-year-old had suffered a mild stroke. Having been with the franchise for decades, The Spurs is the house that Popovich built and imagining the franchise without him is something similar to seeing northern lights in Texas. However, Popovich had to step down temporarily, handing the reins over to Mitch Johnson to lead while he watched. And after months of waiting, fans have finally received an update on whether Popovich will return or not.

According to insider Chris Haynes, “Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich addressed team today for first time since suffering a stroke to update them on his recovery and to inform that he’s not returning this season.” Since his absence the Spurs are 23-30. The playoff push was on after the addition of De’Aaron Fox but Victor Wembanyama’s blood clot issue has almost vanquished that hope.

ESPN’s Shams Charania also chimed in with a part of Popovich’s statement, “Mitch Johnson and his staff have done a wonderful job and the resolve and professionalism the players have shown … has been outstanding. I will continue to focus on my health with the hope that I can return to coaching in the future.”

As soon as the supporters heard the news, they quickly gathered to send their warm wishes to the beloved head coach.

Fans rally behind Gregg Popovich after the latest health update

What coach Popp means to San Antonio is easy and hard to explain at the same time. As the Spurs fandom processed the latest update, prayers flooded in for the veteran coach. “Prayers for Pop ❤️,” wrote one fan under Haynes’ post, with others expressing the same sentiment. The last time Popovich actively coached was October 31 last year. Since then his deputy and to many the impending successfor, Mitch Johnson has taken up the role. Johnson has been with the franchise since 2016 as a part of Austin Spurs and then has been an assistant to Popp since 2019.

Another fan commented, “Get well Pop!!! He needs one more championship run and I believe with the squad he has that could be next season.” The Spurs have definitely strengthened their roster this year with Chris Paul and De’Aaron Fox, but sadly, this season probably isn’t it. Not only is Popovich out, but Victor Wembanyama is also sidelined for the season. So the fan is hoping that next season will be the one where Pop can snag his sixth championship with the Spurs.

“Wishing you a speedy recovery,” read one of the comments. Gregg Popovich has been a legendary figure in the league, known for his incredible coaching career with San Antonio. Now, as he steps back due to his medical condition, fans are showing him the love and respect he truly deserves.

Another X user highlighted, “Nah this is actually the worst news of the season 😕.” This season has had its fair share of bad news. The Pelicans are the leading side in delivering that with one after another season-ending injuries. Even during the All-Star weekend, LeBron James became the bearer of bad news as his 20-game streak in the event came to an end due to an ankle issue.

The breaking update even had some people fearing the worst. “Graphic scared the shit outta me at first. But gone ahead and take that PTO, Pop,” a fan wrote, stating the understandable shock.

Thankfully, things are in control for the coach. The whole of the NBA world is praying for the former army vet. ‘Tough times don’t last, tough guys do’ — if there’s someone who can prove this again, Gregg Popovich is surely the one.