Mitch Johnson Named Head Coach of the San Antonio Spurs, Succeeding Gregg Popovich
In a seismic shift for the San Antonio Spurs, Mitch Johnson has been appointed as the team’s new head coach, marking the end of an era dominated by the legendary Gregg Popovich. The announcement, made Friday by the NBA franchise, signals a transition both on the court and in the front office, as Popovich steps down from his coaching duties to assume the role of full-time president of basketball operations.
Popovich’s departure from the sidelines brings to a close nearly three decades of unparalleled success and leadership. Since 1994, he has masterfully juggled the responsibilities of head coach and overseer of basketball operations, a dual role that solidified his status as one of the most influential figures in NBA history. Under his guidance, the Spurs have consistently been a model of excellence, capturing five NBA championships and fostering a culture of teamwork, discipline, and unwavering commitment to the game.
The decision to promote Johnson, a nine-year veteran of the Spurs organization, underscores the team’s commitment to continuity and internal growth. Johnson’s journey with the Spurs began in 2016 when he joined their G League affiliate in Austin, Texas. His dedication and coaching acumen quickly propelled him through the ranks, earning him a position as an assistant coach for the San Antonio Spurs in 2019.
Johnson’s familiarity with the Spurs’ system and players extends beyond his role as an assistant. He served as the team’s coach in the NBA Summer League in both 2022 and 2023, further honing his leadership skills and demonstrating his ability to guide young talent. In the 2024-25 season, Johnson also stepped in as interim head coach for 77 games while Popovich recovered from a mild stroke, showcasing his readiness to lead the team in challenging circumstances.
"While my love and passion for the game remain, I’ve decided it’s time to step away as head coach," Popovich said in a statement released Friday. "I’m forever grateful to the wonderful players, coaches, staff, and fans who allowed me to serve them as the Spurs head coach and am excited for the opportunity to continue to support the organization, community, and city that are so meaningful to me."
Johnson’s formal introduction as the new head coach is scheduled for Monday in San Antonio. His appointment has been met with widespread support from within the organization and among Spurs fans eager to see the team’s continued success.
"When I took the opportunity to join the Austin Spurs over nine years ago, I had no idea that this opportunity was in front of me," Johnson said at the end of the regular season. "And, so, it’s sometimes funny how your journey takes you, and sometimes the biggest moments can come from the least likely spots."
Spurs managing partner Peter J. Holt expressed his confidence in Johnson’s ability to lead the team forward. "We are thrilled for Mitch Johnson to be our next head coach," Holt said. "Throughout his decade in the organization, we have seen that Mitch has the right values, poise, and potential to lead us into the future."
The transition to a new head coach also has the backing of Spurs star Victor Wembanyama, who expressed his faith in the organization’s decision-making process. "I trust the organization…and I also trust Mitch to grow into that role," Wembanyama said when the season ended. "So, I think we are in good hands."
Johnson’s background as a four-year starter at Stanford, followed by stints in the G League and European leagues, provides him with a unique perspective on the game. His playing experience, combined with his years of coaching under Popovich and his own leadership roles within the Spurs organization, have prepared him to take on the challenges of leading an NBA team.
"I am truly grateful and honored to receive this incredible opportunity," Johnson said. "I am thankful for Coach Pop, RC, Brian, and Peter trusting me to carry on our culture, and I promise to give this responsibility everything I have to make Spurs fans proud."
The appointment of Johnson marks a new chapter for the San Antonio Spurs. As the team embarks on this next phase, the legacy of Gregg Popovich will undoubtedly continue to influence the organization’s approach to basketball. Johnson inherits a team with a strong foundation, a talented young core led by Wembanyama, and a passionate fanbase eager to witness continued success.
While the shoes of Gregg Popovich are undeniably large to fill, Mitch Johnson’s dedication, experience, and commitment to the Spurs’ values make him a well-suited successor. His leadership will be crucial as the team navigates the evolving landscape of the NBA and strives to maintain its position as a perennial contender. The Spurs faithful eagerly anticipate the upcoming season, hopeful that Johnson can build upon the foundation laid by his predecessor and lead the team to new heights.
The transition also highlights the evolving role of Popovich within the organization. As full-time president of basketball operations, he will continue to shape the team’s direction, overseeing player development, scouting, and strategic planning. This allows him to remain actively involved in the Spurs’ long-term success while entrusting the day-to-day coaching responsibilities to Johnson.
The Spurs organization has always prioritized continuity and internal development, and the selection of Johnson is a testament to this philosophy. By promoting from within, the team ensures that its core values and principles remain intact while also providing Johnson with the opportunity to implement his own vision and strategies.
As Mitch Johnson steps into his role as head coach, he carries the weight of expectations from a fanbase accustomed to excellence. However, he also possesses the experience, support, and resources necessary to navigate the challenges ahead and lead the San Antonio Spurs into a new era of success. The upcoming season promises to be one of great interest and anticipation as the Spurs embark on this exciting journey under Johnson’s leadership.
