Sports Industry longitudinally evolving with new coaches: Mitch Johnson, San Antonio Spurs’ latest addition
The sporting world witnessed a significant transition this season as the San Antonio Spurs bid farewell to their iconic coach Gregg Popovich after 29 years at the helm. Stepping up to fill his shoes is Mitch Johnson, the new principal coach, bringing a fresh perspective and a wealth of experience to the table.
Mitchell Johnson: A brief journey
Born on November 29, 1986, Mitch Johnson is the son of John Johnson, a former NBA champion with the Seattle SuperSonics, and Jenny Redman. His basketball roots run deep, with a high school career that saw him averaging 22 points and 8 assists in his senior year, leading O’Dea High School to two state championships.
Johnson’s college career was equally impressive. He played for the Stanford Cardinal from 2005 to 2009, earning an honorable mention in the All-Freshman team and setting the university’s record for assists in a single game. He went on to play professionally in the NBA D-League and in Europe before deciding to follow his passion for coaching.*
Coaching career: From assistant to principal
Johnson started his coaching journey in 2011 as an intern coach for the University of Seattle. He then served as a coach for an AAU team in the Nike Elite Youth Basketball League and became an assistant coach for the Portland Pilots. In 2015, he joined the Spurs organization, serving as an assistant coach for the Austin Spurs in the NBA D-League. In 2019, he was hired as an assistant coach for the San Antonio Spurs, replacing Gregg Popovich’s son, Jenna, who left to pursue a career in law.*
Johnson’s coaching prowess is evident in his ability to lead the Austin Spurs to an NBA Gatorade League championship in 2018. His hard work and dedication to the craft have earned him the trust and respect of his peers and the San Antonio Spurs organization, culminating in his promotion to principal coach in 2025.*
A new era for the Spurs
Despite the enormous shoes to fill, Johnson brings a unique blend of experience, passion, and innovation to the Spurs. His familiarity with the organization, having served as an assistant coach for several seasons, provides a solid foundation upon which to build. Moreover, his fresh perspective and commitment to player development promise to rejuvenate the team and drive success on and off the court.*
With Popovich’s retirement, the Spurs embark on a new chapter in their illustrious history. Mitch Johnson, with his impressive resume and dedication to craft, is poised to guide them into a bright and successful future. As the Spurs’ new principal coach, Johnson is set to leave his own indelible mark on the sport that has defined his life.*
Mitch Johnson, a sports industry-upstart Stephens Johnson brings a unique blend of experience, passion, and innovation to the San Antonio Spurs, promising a bright and successful future for the franchise.