The San Antonio Spurs have announced that Mitch Johnson, who had been serving as the team’s interim head coach since Gregg Popovich’s absence due to health reasons, has been officially promoted to the position of head coach. The news was reported by USA TODAY Sports earlier and the terms of Johnson’s contract were not disclosed.
Expressing his gratitude and honor, Johnson stated in a news release on Friday that he is committed to giving his all to make Spurs fans proud. He thanked Popovich, Spurs CEO R.C. Buford, and team ownership for the opportunity. Johnson, age 38, had been an assistant under Popovich since 2019 and was regarded as one of the NBA’s top young assistant coaches before taking on the interim head coach role this season.
Despite facing challenges such as injuries to key players like Victor Wembanyama and De’Aaron Fox, Johnson led the Spurs to a 32-45 record in his interim stint. His quick promotion is a sign of the organization’s desire for continuity during this period of transition, with Popovich and Buford endorsing Johnson’s leadership potential.
Managing partner Peter J. Holt expressed excitement about Johnson assuming the head coaching role, citing his values, poise, and potential to lead the team into the future. Johnson inherits a team with a mix of young talent like Wembanyama and Fox, along with experienced players. The recent success of guard Stephon Castle, who won the NBA Rookie of the Year award, adds to the team’s promising outlook.
Johnson’s promotion follows Popovich’s decision to step down as head coach and transition to the role of president of basketball operations. Popovich had been away from the team for most of the 2024-25 season due to health issues, culminating in a medical incident in April. Johnson previously served as interim coach in 2021 and 2023 during Popovich’s brief absences.
Having also coached with the G League affiliate Austin Spurs, Johnson has a solid coaching background within the organization. With a strong foundation and support from the Spurs leadership, Johnson is poised to lead the team into a new era.
Mitch Johnson played Division I basketball at Stanford from 2005 to 2009, with averages of 5.3 points, 4.1 assists, and 3.0 rebounds per game. He contributed to the Cardinal’s success in reaching the NCAA Tournament twice, including a notable run to the Sweet 16 in 2008. Following his college career, Johnson briefly played in the G League for the Tulsa 66ers. He is the son of NBA veteran John Johnson and, along with his wife Jessica, has four children named Tasia, Tatum, Johnnie, and Jameson. The Spurs have appointed Mitch Johnson as their new head coach.
