While no one expected Popovich to announce his retirement plans early and accept a year-long retirement tour, his departure from the sidelines was far more abrupt than he or anyone would've intended.

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.

Mitch Johnson extended his hand. Gregg Popovich shook it, then pulled him in for a hug instead. And with that, the torch was officially passed. It's a new era in San Antonio. Popovich spoke publicly Monday for the first time since suffering a stroke six months ago,