Gregg Popovich, the legendary coach of San Antonio, stated today that Mitch Johnson is the right person to take over the role of head coach after his retirement.
"We need someone who can give their all, because that's what this group of players deserves and is looking for. We already have that person in San Antonio," said the 76-year-old Popovich, who appeared in public for the first time since suffering a stroke in November, his voice visibly weakened and his diction slower.
Popovich, who won five NBA titles with the Spurs and led the team for a record 29 seasons, said it was the right time for Johnson to take the helm.
Johnson led the team as an interim coach for almost the entire season and has now been officially named the new head coach.
"Mitch did a fantastic job under very difficult circumstances. We saw him in action and he was brilliant," Popovich said.
Popovich has developed many players throughout his career, and in recent seasons he has been instrumental in the development of French ace Victor Vembanjama.
He was accompanied by his former stars Manu Ginobili and Tim Duncan at the conference.
"Pop, you taught me to always put the players first, to be detail-oriented, and to play smarter and harder for the entire 48 minutes," Johnson said.
"We know the direction we're going, we know what we want to build. This is not a new beginning, nor a refresh. This is a new chapter that looks different, but the theme of the book remains the same," he added.
San Antonio finished the season in 13th place in the Western Conference and missed the playoffs for the sixth year in a row.
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