Spurs Announce Gregg Popovich Suffered Mild Stroke, Expected to Make "Full Recovery"

Pop recovering after suffering "mini stroke"

Gregg Popovich suffered a mild stroke, the San Antonio Spurs announced Friday. The five-time NBA champion coach is expected to make a full recovery, but there is no timetable for his return.

Assistant coach Becky Hammon will coach the Spurs in Popovich's absence. Popovich, 73, has been the Spurs' head coach since 1996 and has led the team to five NBA championships. He is one of the most successful coaches in NBA history.

Stroke suffered while traveling

Popovich suffered the stroke while traveling with the team on Thursday. He was taken to a local hospital and was released on Friday.

The Spurs said in a statement that Popovich is "resting comfortably" and that he is "expected to make a full recovery." The team did not provide a timetable for his return.

Prayers and support from the NBA community

The NBA community has rallied around Popovich, with many players, coaches, and executives sending their prayers and support.

Spurs star DeMar DeRozan said in a statement that he is "praying for a speedy recovery" for Popovich.

"Pop is a great coach and a great person," DeRozan said. "I'm just glad he's going to be okay."

Stroke is a serious medical condition

A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted. This can be caused by a blood clot or a hemorrhage.

Strokes can cause a wide range of symptoms, including weakness or numbness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, and vision problems.

Strokes are a serious medical condition, but many people who suffer a stroke can make a full recovery.