The NBA world is alive with worry as the San Antonio Spurs face an unsettling situation. Head coach Gregg Popovich, 75, will miss games due to health issues. The Spurs announced this shocking news just before their game against the Minnesota Timberwolves. When ESPN’s Shams Charania broke the news, concern spread among fans and players. Many began to wonder, “What’s going on?”

According to the senior insider: “San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich suffered a health issue before Saturday’s game and assistant Mitch Johnson is expected to be the interim head coach for indefinite period, including Monday vs. Clippers and Wednesday vs. Rockets, sources tell ESPN.”

The Spurs are yet to reveal the updates on Gregg Popovich‘s health. Meanwhile, the Spurs have named assistant coach Mitch Johnson as the interim coach during the veteran’s absence. Johnson who coached Victor Wembanyama & Co. to a 113-103 win over Minnesota, said he learned he was taking over Coach Popovich just two-and-a-half hours before the game.

It’s hard to analyze what is happening around the 75-year-old HC. But one thing is for sure, we will not see him commanding his boys for a while now.

Mitch Johnson to replace Gregg Popovich for the time being

Gregg Popovich is an NBA legend. A five-time champion as a coach, he has brought glory to the San Antonio Spurs. Therefore, it’s not hard to understand that the news of his illness has concerned the fans too. However, someone has to fit in the icon’s shoes unless he comes back with greater force. Well, the Spurs were quick to find the best replacement. Their assistant coach Mitch Johnson.

Meanwhile, Popovich didn’t travel with the team to Los Angeles and Houston for the games. The front office is yet to inform the insights of the health issue. Until then, interim coach Johnson is collecting praise from the boys. The Spurs guard Chris Paul said: “Mitch did a great job, man. I think our whole coaching staff [did]. Things happen within this league all the time and just like with the players, it’s next man. So, shoutout to Mitch; he did a great job tonight.” 

In the absence of Gregg Popovich and under Mitch Johnson, Wemby and Co. won the game against the T-Wolves. This simply means, that no matter what, the team will continue to put up top performance game after game. Meanwhile, according to the rumor mills, Coach Gregg is “OK.” This news is yet to be verified, but if it is true then there can be no greater relief.

The situation surrounding Gregg Popovich has sparked significant concern in the NBA community. As he takes time off for health issues, interim coach Mitch Johnson steps in to lead the Spurs. The team’s recent victory against the Timberwolves shows their resilience. Players like Chris Paul praise Johnson’s performance. Fans are hopeful for updates on Popovich’s health, with rumors suggesting he is “OK.” For now, the Spurs remain focused on maintaining their competitive spirit. The basketball world watches closely as they navigate this challenge.