Emergency call logs disclose medical emergency that led Gregg Popovich to step down from Spurs team
Gregg Popovich Steps Down as San Antonio Spurs Head Coach Following Medical Emergency
A 911 call made on April 15, 2025, revealed that Gregg Popovich, the long-standing head coach of the San Antonio Spurs, had suffered a medical emergency at a Ruth's Chris Steak House in San Antonio. Initially, it was reported that Popovich was non-responsive but gradually began to regain consciousness before being transported to a nearby hospital for further treatment.
The medical scare was linked to complications from a mild stroke that Popovich experienced in November 2024, which forced him to miss most of the 2024-25 season. During his absence, Spurs assistant coach Mitch Johnson took over coaching duties temporarily.
The health setback ultimately prompted Popovich, now 76, to step down from his coaching role. In a statement released earlier this month, he expressed his gratitude for his time with the Spurs and his eagerness to continue supporting the organization, community, and city that have been significant to him. Popovich will transition to a full-time position as the team's president of basketball operations, marking the end of his nearly three-decade tenure.
As the all-time wins leader and holder of the most playoff wins with one team by any coach in NBA history, Popovich has had a decorated and impactful career. Among his notable achievements are coaching the Spurs to five NBA Championships, being named NBA Coach of the Year three times, and earning an Olympic gold medal. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2023.
The Spurs' 2024-25 season saw them miss out on the playoffs after incoming star player, Victor Wembanyama, missed a significant portion of the season due to blood clots. The team now holds the second overall pick in the NBA Draft, two years after selecting Wembanyama first.
Ryan Gaydos and Paulina Dedaj contributed to this report.
Stay updated with our sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the our website Sports Huddle newsletter.
After his health issues stemming from a stroke and recent medical emergency, Gregg Popovich has decided to step down as the San Antonio Spurs head coach, leaving behind a storied career in sports and basketball, including coaching the Spurs to five NBA Championships and being named NBA Coach of the Year three times. In his new role as the Spurs' president of basketball operations, Popovich will continue to support the team and city that have been significant to him.
