Gregg Popovich spoke publicly Monday for the first time since suffering a stroke six months ago, saying at the news conference where the San Antonio Spurs formally introduced Mitch Johnson as his replacement that the time was right to make that move.

In February, Castle averaged 23.3 minutes, 14.7 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game. In March, the leash came off of Castle, and he averaged 28.8 minutes, 19.5 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game; and his efficiency got better, both in terms of field goal percentage and true shooting.

The San Antonio Spurs announced Friday that coach Gregg Popovich was stepping down and Mitch Johnson would replace him as head coach.