### Spurs Coach Gregg Popovich Stepping Away Due to Health Issue; Mitch Johnson Steps In

San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich is temporarily stepping down from his duties owing to a health issue that arose before Saturday's game, according to ESPN sources. Assistant coach Mitch Johnson will take over as the interim head coach for an indefinite period, covering at least the games on Monday against the Clippers and Wednesday in Houston.

Popovich, at 75 years old, encountered this health problem before the Spurs' victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Saturday night. The specific illness has not been disclosed by the team. On Monday, it was confirmed that Popovich did not join the team for their travels to games in Los Angeles and Houston.

Following Saturday's triumph, Spurs guard Chris Paul praised Johnson’s efforts. "Mitch did a great job, man," Paul remarked. "I think our whole coaching staff [did]. Things happen within this league all the time and just like with the players, it's next man. So, shoutout to Mitch; he did a great job tonight."

Popovich holds the record as the NBA's career leader with 1,390 victories, plus 170 postseason wins, and has led the Spurs to five NBA championships. He is currently in his 29th season with San Antonio.