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,

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.

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.