Legendary San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich was rushed to the hospital Tuesday night after reportedly fainting while dining at a popular steakhouse, TMZ Sports has learned.
The 76-year-old NBA icon was seen being placed onto a stretcher and into an ambulance outside the restaurant around 8:20 PM, according to eyewitness video obtained by TMZ.
Emergency Call for “Elderly Person Who Fainted”
Emergency responders were dispatched to the scene following a 911 call reporting an “elderly person who had fainted” while having dinner. Popovich, who suffered a mild stroke back in early November, had been dining at the establishment for nearly two hours before the medical episode occurred.
Sources say he appeared to still be experiencing lingering effects from the previous stroke.
Popovich Was Alert and Talking
Fortunately, one insider tells TMZ that Popovich was alert and responsive as he was loaded into the ambulance. He was transported to a nearby hospital with what officials described as a non-life-threatening condition.
A Coaching Legend Prioritizing Health
Popovich, the winningest coach in NBA history, has been away from the Spurs bench since February, choosing to focus on his recovery. In his absence, assistant coach Mitch Johnson has stepped in as interim head coach for the remainder of the season.
🇺🇸 An Icon of the Game
Gregg Popovich is celebrated as one of the greatest coaches in basketball history. Over his decades-long career, he led the Spurs to five NBA championships and guided Team USA to Olympic gold at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. His leadership, vision, and basketball acumen have cemented his legacy in the sport.
No Official Statement Yet
Despite multiple attempts to reach out, the Spurs organization has not issued a public statement on Popovich’s latest health scare.
Fans Wishing Coach Pop a Speedy Recovery
As news of his hospitalization spreads, fans and players from across the NBA world are sending well wishes and hoping for a swift and full recovery for the beloved coach.
