Spurs defy injury woes as Mitch Johnson leads team to NBA Cup final, turning a 18-7 record into a potential playoff run after Popovich’s stroke.
Injuries That Tested the Spurs
The San Antonio franchise has endured a brutal injury slide this season. Victor Wembanyama missed 12 of the first 25 games. Dylan Harper has been sidelined for 10 games, Stephon Castle for nine, and De’Aaron Fox for eight. Despite the absences, the Spurs have compiled an 18-7 record, a performance that has surprised many.
Johnson’s Unexpected Ascension
When veteran coach Gregg Popovich suffered a stroke in November 2024, the Spurs had no plan for a replacement. On the Saturday afternoon of that day, the organization turned to assistant coach Mitch Johnson, who had never anticipated stepping into the head-coach role. Johnson won his first game that night and has held the fort ever since.
Coaching Philosophy and Adaptation
Johnson admits he cannot emulate Popovich’s style. “I’m not Pop,” he said, “so I can’t lead how he did.” He has instead applied the franchise’s long-standing principles while making subtle adjustments. “I think our franchise is used to and committed to winning, and that’s not a knock to any other franchises, but some people that have been with our franchise for a very long time have set a foundation and embedded principles that has allowed that to happen over time,” he explained.
Overcoming a Star’s Health Setback
Midway through the season, Wembanyama was sidelined at the All-Star break after doctors discovered deep vein thrombosis in one of his shoulders. Johnson guided the team through the loss of their star player while maintaining a competitive edge.
The Cup Run and Tactical Choices
The Spurs’ Cup semifinal victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder, a 111-109 win, showcased Johnson’s willingness to deviate from Popovich’s strict no-fouling policy. In the final moments with a three-point cushion, Johnson had the Spurs foul on three separate occasions, a decision that paid off.
Team Confidence and Leadership
Spurs guard Devin Vassell praised Johnson’s leadership. “I trust in Mitch 100%,” Vassell said. “Mitch was my player development coach when I first got here, so I think me and him have an even better connection than the outside sees. But we all trust him. He’s the brains of all of this. He helps us with everything … and we’re just going to keep relying on him. He’s our head coach and we trust in him.”
External Praise
Thunder coach Mark Daigneault, who has known Johnson since their G League days, lauded his character. “He’s always been very hardworking, high character, good person, very steady emotionally,” Daigneault said. “He doesn’t get up and down. And he’s really worked his way through that organization to get to this point. He’s done a great job, even last season in a tough circumstance, and then this season with a full training camp. So, I’ve got a lot of respect for Mitch and a lot of respect for the work he’s doing right now.”
A Decade-Long Shift
The Spurs’ current trajectory could mark their first playoff appearance since 2019 and their first Western Conference finals run since the 2016-17 season. Johnson’s coaching, combined with the team’s resilience, suggests the franchise may become contenders for the first time in about a decade.
Key Takeaways
- The Spurs have managed an 18-7 record despite multiple injuries.
- Mitch Johnson stepped in after Popovich’s stroke and has led the team to the Cup final.
- Johnson’s coaching blends franchise principles with tactical flexibility.
The Spurs’ story illustrates how a team can overcome adversity, adapt to unexpected leadership changes, and rise to championship contention in the NBA.
