Audio released of Gregg Popovich medical emergency before stepping down as Spurs coach
Gregg Popovich, the former head coach of the San Antonio Spurs, recently experienced a medical emergency while dining at a restaurant in San Antonio. According to reports, Popovich fainted at the steakhouse and had to be taken to the hospital in an ambulance. The caller who reported the incident stated that Popovich was initially unresponsive but eventually regained consciousness before being transported to the hospital.
Fortunately, Popovich did not sustain any life-threatening injuries or illnesses as a result of the incident. The 76-year-old coach had been recovering from a stroke that had sidelined him for most of the 2024-25 NBA season. Following the medical scare, Popovich made the decision to step down as head coach of the Spurs.
In a statement released earlier this month, Popovich expressed gratitude for his time as head coach and announced his transition to a full-time role as president of basketball operations for the Spurs. His departure marks the end of a legendary coaching career that spanned nearly three decades and included five NBA Championships, multiple Coach of the Year awards, an Olympic gold medal, and induction into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2023.
Despite missing the playoffs this season, the Spurs hold the second overall pick in the upcoming NBA Draft. This follows their selection of Victor Wembanyama as the first overall pick two years prior. Wembanyama, who missed a significant portion of the season due to blood clots, is expected to play a key role in the team’s future success.
As Popovich transitions to his new role within the organization, the Spurs look to rebuild and return to championship contention under new leadership. The team’s loyal fan base and the basketball community as a whole will undoubtedly miss the iconic coach on the sidelines, but his legacy and impact on the sport will endure for years to come.
