Spurs Prepare for NBA Finals Without Popovich on Sideline
The San Antonio Spurs are preparing for their first NBA Finals appearance since 2014 without Gregg Popovich as head coach. The team continues to consult the Hall of Famer and other former players during practices.
ESPNThe team returned to San Antonio on Saturday after defeating the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 7. Victor Wembanyama said he spoke with Popovich immediately after landing and noted the challenge of returning to a normal mindset before facing the New York Knicks.
Keldon Johnson said players stop conversations when Popovich enters the room. De'Aaron Fox said the organization benefits from multiple Hall of Famers who visit the facility. He listed R.C. Buford, Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili, David Robinson, Sean Elliott and Bruce Bowen as additional sources of advice on championship preparation.
Johnson took over as interim head coach after Popovich's stroke and guided the team to a 32-45 record last season. Popovich now serves as director of basketball operations and has referred to himself as "El Jefe." Popovich retired with 1,422 regular-season coaching victories, the NBA record.
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