Overview
- Popovich, now the Spurs’ president of basketball operations, visited the practice facility Friday and had addressed the team earlier in the week before Sunday’s Game 1 against Portland.
- His message, shared by guard Stephon Castle, was to stay true to their identity and keep doing what has worked all season.
- Reporters at the open practice saw him moving without assistance during rehab from a 2024 stroke, though he walked with a limp and an aide carried a cane nearby.
- CEO R. C. Buford said Popovich has been at the facility four to five times a week during recovery and continues to mentor players and staff.
- Mitch Johnson leads a 62-20 Spurs team that opens Sunday as the West’s No. 2 seed, with high hopes around Victor Wembanyama but little playoff experience on the roster.