I did not watch the game last night (commented on FR instead), but I had a growing anxiety as my husband explained it to me this morning. Maybe I have become too politically paranoid, but how come the NBA has not been infected with the accusation of racism?
A white coach demanding total cooperation with his mostly black players. They barely speak. They differ to him completely. They aren’t allowed to be colorful after a successful shot. Everyone has to pull their weight; no slacking.
Pure meritocracy must be stopped, right, isn’t that how they want it. Where is their openly gay player? Isn’t it time a black man to coach their team? How come they aren’t using their time in the limelight to voice grievances against white people, heterosexuals, people who can afford tickets, teams from red states.
Really, it is so pure. I do really admire Popovich and his team. Go Spurs!
My husband also emphasized to me, that they passed a lot, a strategy to make each player contribute rather than have just one star making all the points. Ego is subsumed for team cohesion and advancement.
He also said they were focused, disciplined and humbled, not wanting to explain, predict or crow after the game. They are in the zone until the last decisive game.
Bravo!
“A white coach demanding total cooperation with his mostly black players. They barely speak. They differ to him completely.”
I read an article which differs somewhat from this. During timeouts when Pop is strategizing the next play, he doesn’t bark commands. Instead he asks questions, and the answers he gets from the players determine what they’ll do.
Also, Pop is an ex-military intelligence officer, so he uses info to plan his battles.