Gregg Popovich Sports 'El Jefe' Shirt in Video After Move to Spurs Team President

Gregg Popovich wasted no time in warming to his new job with the San Antonio Spurs.

The team held a press conference Monday to introduce Mitch Johnson as the new permanent head coach. Johnson earned the promotion after Popovich stepped down and assumed the full-time role as president of basketball operations.

To christen his new title, the Hall of Famer unzipped his jacket to reveal a T-shirt reading "El Jefe":

Popovich first took a leave of absence for health reasons in November. The Spurs confirmed in February he'd miss the remainder of the 2024-25 season, which saw the team go 34-48 and finish 13th in the Western Conference.

Last week, the 76-year-old closed the chapter on his legendary coaching career for good.

Popovich addressed his situation again Monday.

"I can never express the gratitude that I have for so many people caring about the organization and sending me thoughts and prayers, that sort of thing, since I had this stroke," he said. "Things are getting better by the day, but it's not good enough for what we plan ahead, so it's time to make this change."

Pivoting to the front office doesn't mean Popovich is kicking back and relaxing away from the limelight.

This could be a big offseason for San Antonio as it retools the roster around Victor Wembanyama and De'Aaron Fox.

The Spurs have a six percent chance of winning the 2025 NBA draft lottery and 26.3 percent odds of getting a top-four pick. They could be adding another dynamic young talent to their core.

Even after the trade for Fox, the franchise also has enough draft capital and trade assets to make a swoop for another star. If Giannis Antetokounmpo pressed the issue with the Milwaukee Bucks, the Spurs would be able to make a compelling offer.

Over nearly three decades as the coach, Popovich brought five titles to San Antonio and gave the franchise a clear identity. As the team president, he can help to set the stage for a new era of Spurs basketball.