Gregg Popovich thankful for ‘outpouring of support’ in first statement since stroke

The legendary coach showed his sense of humor is intact and hinted at a possible return to coaching in a short but encouraging statement.

The news about Gregg Popovich’s health issue that has kept him off the bench for weeks was as surprising as it was concerning. As it normally is with the Spurs, they were tight-lipped about it at first, but eventually it came out that the legendary coach had suffered a stroke.

There had not been many updates on his recovery or whether he was planning to return to coaching at some point, until now. Pop released a statement thanking everyone who showed support and used his dry sense of humor to indicate that he might roam the sidelines again. From Spurs PR:

This has certainly been an unexpected six weeks for my family and me. As we work together on my recovery, I want to take a moment to share that the outpouring of support we’ve received during this time has been truly overwhelming in the best possible way. While I wish I could get back to each one of you, for now, let me say that 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.

The entire NBA family showed concern for Pop after the news about his health issue broke out. It’s understandable for him and his family to focus on his recovery and not on thanking every single person who reached out, but he’s made it clear in his statement that it meant a lot to him.

While hearing that Pop is aware of all the love he received is great, the last paragraph is arguably more interesting for Spurs fans. Pop, in his normal snarky and self-deprecating way, mentions that the goal is to return to coaching. When it will happen is unkown, but it’s comforting to see that the desire to lead the team is still there. Mitch Johnson has done a fantastic job of filling in for the five-time NBA champion, but there’s only one Pop.

For now, his focus should continue to be on making a full recovery. His spot on the bench will be there when he’s ready to return.