My two favorite coaches to study are Gregg Popovich and Bill Belichick. I'm always trying to find new information about their method for greatness.
Peter Finney of the Times-Picayune, wrote a nice article on Popovich with insight from Monty Williams, New Orleans head coach, who played for Popovich. Here it is:
It’s safe to say few people have achieved such success in the basketball world, and done it with less fanfare, than Gregg Popovich, the 63-year-old coach of the San Antonio Spurs.
Maybe it has something to do with a guy who once seriously considered a career with the Central Intelligence Agency, after graduating from the Air Force Academy with a bachelor’s degree in Soviet studies, after being captain and leading scorer of the basketball team, then spending five years on active duty, much of it devoted to gathering intelligence along the Russian border.
“Here’s what I can tell you about Coach Pop,’’ Hornets Coach Monty Williams said. “He’s the hardest-working person I’ve ever known. No ego. No bravado. No lying. Always up front. He will always be my coaching idol.’’
After 4-0 sweeps of the Utah Jazz and Los Angeles Clippers, the Spurs will begin the Western Conference finals against Oklahoma City on Sunday night in San Antonio.
The Spurs are waiting with an 18-game winning streak that stretches back into the regular season.
Popovich is waiting to see if he can add to his 116 playoff victories as San Antonio coach, second only to Phil Jackson and Pat Riley.
San Antonio is waiting to see if these Spurs can bring their city a fifth NBA championship.
In the 1996-97 season, Williams was playing for Pop, an interim coach at the time. Pop had returned to the Spurs in 1994 after new ownership took over the franchise.
His first move was to bring in Avery Johnson as point guard (together they won the Spurs’ first championship in 1999) and another early move was to trade Dennis Rodman, who the head coach looked on as a negative.
Williams watched Popovich finish the ’96-97 season as interim coach with a 17-47 record, and said he might have been watching one of Pop’s finest coaching jobs, as impressive as the championships he won in ’99, ’03, ’05 and ‘07.
This was before Popovich landed his big three — Tim Duncan, Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili.
“Pop was doing things his way,’’ Williams said. “He was on the way to proving he was not wedded to any special system, that if you played for him, the first thing a player had to do was check his ego at the door. You did that by getting everyone involved, by ball movement, by getting the ball to someone for a wide-open shot.’’
Said forward Boris Diaw: “You don’t have to second-guess anything coach is saying. Any time he says something, you have confidence it will work.’’
Forward Stephen Jackson calls his coach “Obi Wan.’’
“He can see the future,’’ Jackson said. “He’s a genius.’’
Spurs watchers have been telling the story about a play Popovich scrawled on a grease board during a 20-second timeout in a playoff game against the Utah Jazz.
It had Duncan lofting a half-court pass to Ginobili, who would dribble 20 feet before passing the ball to Matt Bonner, who, according to plan, would be wide open for a 3-point attempt.
It took less than four seconds, and Bonner hit the shot.
“It looked like we had practiced it a thousand times,’’ Bonner said. “We hadn’t practiced it once.’’
Popovich keeps right on building what you might call a quiet legacy.
Pundit Ailene Voisin of the Sacramento Bee believes Popovich should be a slam dunk to succeed Mike Krzyzewski as coach of USA Basketball after the 2012 London Olympics.
“He fulfills all the criteria,’’ Voisin said. “He has the complete game. He has coached college, won with David Robinson and Tim Duncan, won with Duncan and two guards from overseas (Ginobili and Parker). He wins with misfits (Stephen Jackson), trades them away, brings them back, and wins with them again. He wins with rookies (Kawhi Leonard) and with role players, while changing tempo and pacing, but invariably excelling at defense and teamwork.’’
Here are the Spurs, a year after a 61-victory regular season ended with a first round loss to the Grizzlies many credited to old age, having returned to life with a cast of the same golden oldies, along with a few new faces.
“We’ve never gone into a playoff thinking this is our year,’’ Popovich said. “We go into a playoff with what we call ‘appropriate fear.’ ”
This year “appropriate fear’’ has paid handsome dividends: eight playoff victories in a row — six of those by double digits.
Said Duncan: “Doesn’t seem like the pressure gets to us and we start making mistakes.’’
The month of May is almost over, and Tim Duncan has not played on a losing team since April 11.
Gregg Popovich Sets an Example for His Players: The Coach as a Role Model
In the world of professional sports, the role of a coach extends far beyond devising strategies and drawing up plays. Coaches are mentors, leaders, and often, role models for their players. One coach who exemplifies this multi-faceted role is Gregg Popovich, affectionately known as "Pop." As the head coach of the San Antonio Spurs in the National Basketball Association (NBA), Popovich has set an extraordinary example for his players both on and off the court. In this article, we will explore how Gregg Popovich sets an example for his players and the profound impact he has had on their lives and careers.
The Popovich Legacy
Gregg Popovich's coaching career is defined by excellence, consistency, and a commitment to values that extend well beyond basketball. He became the head coach of the San Antonio Spurs in 1996 and, over the years, has transformed them into one of the most successful franchises in NBA history. Under his guidance, the Spurs have won multiple NBA championships, but Popovich's influence reaches beyond the realm of championships and trophies.
Leading by Example: Key Traits
Popovich's example-setting leadership can be attributed to several key traits and actions that have endeared him to his players and the basketball community at large.
1. Authenticity and Honesty
Popovich is known for his straightforward and often blunt communication style. He values honesty and directness when interacting with his players. His authenticity and transparency create a culture of trust within the team.
Example: When making tough decisions, such as benching a star player or addressing a loss, Popovich does not sugarcoat the situation. He provides candid feedback and expects the same level of honesty from his players.
2. Lifelong Learning
Despite his extensive experience and success, Popovich maintains a thirst for knowledge and personal growth. He sets an example by continuously seeking to improve himself as a coach and as a person.
Example: Popovich's willingness to adapt to changes in the game, such as incorporating analytics and adjusting his coaching style to fit different eras of basketball, showcases his commitment to evolving and staying relevant.
3. Social Advocacy
Popovich is not afraid to speak out on important social and political issues. He uses his platform to advocate for racial equality, social justice, and the importance of civic engagement.
Example: During the Black Lives Matter movement, Popovich was vocal in his support for players and their right to express themselves on issues of racial injustice. He encouraged open dialogue within the team and the league.
4. Work Ethic and Discipline
Popovich's work ethic and discipline set high standards for his players. He leads by example in terms of dedication to preparation and attention to detail.
Example: Popovich's commitment to film study, scouting reports, and practice sessions demonstrates the importance of preparation and hard work in achieving success.
5. Player Development
Popovich is renowned for his ability to develop players and help them reach their full potential. He invests time and effort in mentoring and nurturing talent.
Example: Players like Kawhi Leonard and Danny Green, who blossomed under Popovich's guidance, credit him for their growth and success in the NBA. His focus on fundamentals and skill development sets a standard for player improvement.
Leading by Example: Impact on Players
Gregg Popovich's example-setting leadership has left a lasting impact on the players who have had the privilege of being coached by him. Here are some ways in which he has influenced their lives and careers:
1. Lifelong Lessons
Players who have played under Popovich often carry the lessons they've learned from him throughout their lives. They adopt his values, commitment to excellence, and principles of leadership.
Example: Tim Duncan, one of the greatest players in NBA history and a cornerstone of the Spurs' success, has often spoken about the profound influence Popovich has had on his approach to the game and life.
2. Community Engagement
Popovich's advocacy for social causes has inspired players to become active in their communities and use their platforms for positive change.
Example: Spurs players have been involved in various community initiatives, addressing issues like education, homelessness, and youth empowerment. They have cited Popovich's example as a driving force behind their commitment to giving back.
3. Team Chemistry
Popovich's emphasis on teamwork and accountability fosters strong bonds among players, creating a sense of family within the team.
Example: The Spurs are known for their selfless play and unity on and off the court. Popovich's emphasis on "we" rather than "I" has contributed to their success as a team.
4. Leadership Beyond Basketball
Many former players have gone on to become leaders in their respective fields, applying the leadership principles and values instilled by Popovich.
Example: Players like Bruce Bowen and Sean Marks have transitioned into roles as broadcasters, coaches, and front office executives, carrying forward Popovich's legacy of leadership.
FAQs
Q1: How many NBA championships has Gregg Popovich won as a head coach with the San Antonio Spurs?
A1: Gregg Popovich has won five NBA championships as the head coach of the San Antonio Spurs, in the years 1999, 2003, 2005, 2007, and 2014.
Q2: Has Gregg Popovich received any awards or honors for his coaching career?
A2: Yes, Gregg Popovich has received numerous awards and honors for his coaching career, including multiple NBA Coach of the Year awards. He is also a member of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.
Q3: Is Gregg Popovich still coaching the San Antonio Spurs as of the last update in September 2021?
A3: As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, Gregg Popovich was still the head coach of the San Antonio Spurs. However, coaching situations in professional sports can change, so I recommend checking the latest news for updates.
Q4: How long has Gregg Popovich been the head coach of the San Antonio Spurs?
A4: Gregg Popovich has been the head coach of the San Antonio Spurs since 1996, making him one of the longest-tenured head coaches in NBA history.
Q5: What are some specific social causes or issues that Gregg Popovich has been vocal about?
A5: Gregg Popovich has been vocal about various social and political issues, including racial equality, social justice, and civic engagement. He has used his platform to address these matters and encourage open dialogue within the NBA community.
Gregg Popovich's impact as a coach goes beyond wins and losses. He sets an example for his players by embodying values such as authenticity, honesty, and a commitment to social advocacy. The lessons he imparts extend far beyond the basketball court, influencing players to become not only better athletes but also better individuals and leaders in their communities. As a coach and role model, Popovich's legacy will continue to shape the lives and careers of those fortunate enough to be under his guidance.
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