SAN ANTONIO — Boston coach Brad Stevens raved about Gregg Popovich before last night’s game in San Antonio, citing him as a model that every coach in America admires and emulates.
Stevens was specifically citing Popovich’s coaching and managerial skills. But in the case of Dallas’ Rick Carlisle, Popovich’s influence extends well beyond just Xs and Os. Carlisle pulled a fairly decent Popovich impersonation on ESPN’s Chris Broussard during last night’s overtime victory over Houston.
Not bad, Rick. A little too much bemusement, and not enough withering disdain. But not bad at all. You’ve still got some work to do, however, if you want to challenge the undisputed bane of sideline reporters everywhere, both in volume and remorseless execution.