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Spurs' Gregg Popovich Shares Recovery Update After Stroke, Thanks Fans for Support

Andrew Peters

As Gregg Popovich continues his recovery from a mild stroke suffered on Nov. 2, the legendary San Antonio Spurs head coach shared an update.

In a statement shared by the Spurs on social media, Popovich thanked fans for the support he has received while also making a quip towards himself for being "uncoachable" in his rehab.

"This has certainly been an unexpected six weeks for my family and me. As we work together on my recovery, I wan tto take a moment to share that the outpouring of support we've rceived during this time has been truly overwhelming in the best way possible. While I wish I could get back to each one of you, for now, let me say thar my family and I are forever grateful. We're thankful for our wonderful community, the entire Spurs organization, and our family and friends. No one is more excited to see me return to the bench than the talented individuals who have been leading my rehabilitation process. They've quickly learned that I'm less than coachable."

When the Spurs announced that Popovich had suffered a stroke in November, they said he was expected to make a full recovery but did not provide a timeline for his return. Popovich's latest update did not indicate when he'll be back on the sideline, but he seems to be in good spirits.

With Popovich out, Mitch Johnson has served as acting head coach and the Spurs are currently 13-13.

Popovich, 75, is in his 29th season at the helm in San Antonio, by far the most-tenured coach in the NBA. The five-time NBA champion is widely regarded as one of the best coaches in NBA history, amassing the most regular season wins (1,401) in league history along with a laundry list of other accolades.

The Spurs tabbed him as the coach they want to lead the early part of Victor Wembanyama's career as they signed him to a new five-year deal in July 2023 shortly after Wembanyama was selected first overall in the NBA draft.

The first year of the Wembanyama era didn't go too well as the Spurs finished 22-60, but that was somewhat expected with such a young roster. While San Antonio might not be viewed as a Finals contender just yet, it could certainly make its way into the playoffs for the first time since 2019.

For now, the Spurs will look to stay afloat in the West as they await Popovich's return.

   

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