MANILA, Philippines - San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich admits that he has the Golden State Warriors on his mind. Often.
Popovich's Spurs are playing outstanding ball with a 45-8 record but are still the number two team in the league behind the Warriors, who at 48-4 are on pace to surpass the 95-96 Bulls’ 72-10 regular season win-loss record.
In an interview with ESPN.com, Popovich admits the Warriors are difficult to prepare for, but that they’re also fun to watch.
“I’ve spent more time thinking about Golden State than I have any other team I’ve ever thought about in my whole career. Because they are really fun. I’d go buy a ticket and go watch them play. And when I see them move the ball, I get very envious,” said Popovich.
“When I see them shoot uncontested shots more than anybody else in the league, it’s inspiring. It’s just great basketball. […] So I’m actually enjoying them very much.”
The Warriors, led by reigning MVP Stephen Curry, are bidding to repeat as league champions and have won 11 straight games. Golden State is also unbeaten through 24 games at home and is 12-0 against teams in its division.
The Warriors embarrassed a Tim Duncan-less Spurs squad when they last met on January 26, 120-90. The Spurs will have 3 more shots at the Warriors in the regular season - a home game on March 19, a trip back to the Oracle Arena on April 7 and then a quick return to San Antonio for a fourth meeting.
Many people feel the Warriors and Spurs will meet in the Western Conference Finals when the postseason starts. Until then, Popovich will be thinking of ways to turn the tables on this team.
“You try to solve them, but they’re in a sense unsolvable because it’s a particular mix of talent that they have. It’s not just that Steph [Curry] can make shots or that Klay [Thompson] can make shots or that Draymond Green is versatile. Everybody on the court can pass, catch and shoot. And they all get it,” said Popovich.
“They’re for real,” Popovich added. “They’re talented. But they’re also very, very smart.” – Rappler.com