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GREGG POPOVICH has released a statement thanking people for their “overwhelming” support after suffering a stroke – but his return date is still unknown.
The San Antonio Spurs head coach had a “mild stroke” on November 2 at Frost Bank Center and has been missing from the sideline since.
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Popovich, 75, has been undergoing rehab since the incident.
In the statement, he said: “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 and every 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.”
He humorously added: “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.”
Hall of Fame head coach Pop was on the sideline for the first five games of the season, going 2-3.
Assistant coach Mitch Johnson has been the acting head coach in Pop’s absence and has posted an 11-10 record.
The Spurs are currently 13-13 overall and sit 11th in the NBA Western Conference standings.
Popovich is top on the list of all-time wins for a coach and is in his 26th season in charge – making him the longest-tenured coach in American pro sports.
He has taken the Spurs to the NBA title five times and is a three-time Coach of the Year winner.
