Lakers star LeBron James expressed his concerns about Spurs HC Gregg Popovich’s health scare ahead of their NBA Cup clash.
LeBron James worried about friend Coach Pop’s health
The Los Angeles Lakers are all set to take on the San Antonio Spurs for their opening game of the Emirates NBA Cup. All eyes are going to be on the battle between LeBron James and the future of the league, Victor Wembanyama.
However, James is not concerned about the potential to win $500k in the NBA Cup. Instead, his primary concern is the health of his ‘dear friend’ coach Gregg Popovich. Earlier this season, the San Antonio Spurs head coach was sidelined indefinitely after suffering what the team termed a ‘serious health scare.’
Recently, it was revealed that Popovich had suffered a ‘mild stroke’ which required him to get urgent medical attention. Ahead of the game at the Frost Bank Center, James voiced his concerns about the 775-year-old’s health.
It’s always difficult to win a game in San Antonio, but for me personally, there’s much bigger news out of San Antonio right now. And that’s my dear friend Coach Pop. I’ll be thinking heavily about him as I travel there tomorrow [Thursday], game on Friday. Wishing him the best of health. Hopefully I’ll see him soon… That’s the most important for me.
LeBron James said
LeBron James has been involved in a number of duels against Popovich’s teams over the years. They have faced off in the NBA Finals three times – 2007, 2013 and 2014. James was first bested by Popovich’s dominant Spurs in a four game sweep in the 2007 NBA Finals.
Since then, the two have maintained a great relationship off the court and even joined hands during the iconic 2008 Olympics Redeem Team. Though they have shared many battles on the court, James has always had deep respect for Popovich.
Preview: LeBron James takes on next-gen star Victor Wembanyama
The focus of many of the stars, including LeBron James, is bound to be on Coach Gregg Popovich’s well-being. However, there is still a game to be played on Friday night and both teams will come out firing.
The matchup between LeBron James and Spurs star Victor Wembanyama is one of the most anticipated duels in the NBA. James has been the face of the NBA for many years, but as he ages out, Wembanyama has been touted by many as the next global face of the league.
Both stars are currently on a tear. James has been all over the news after securing another record in the annals of NBA history by becoming the oldest player in the league to secure three consecutive triple-doubles. Wembanyama, on the other hand, is rapidly hitting his stride after a slow start to his sophomore season.
Over his first six games of the season, Wembanyama averaged just 18.0 points on 42.7% shooting from the field. However, over his last five games, he has averaged 27.0 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 3.8 blocks on 52.7% shooting from the field and nearly 47% from distance.