Gregg Popovich Continues To Lovingly Chide Tim Duncan Even After Retirement

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Tim Duncan and Gregg Popovich have developed a unique bond over the years. The infamously-acerbic Spurs coach proved he’s just a big softy after getting choked up when talking about how he’d have dinner with Timmy over just about anyone else in the world, and then again when it came to light that he often left carrot cake (Duncan’s favorite) outside of his hotel room on road trips.

Naturally, Duncan’s retirement will be a difficult transition for Pop and the Spurs, but as it turns out, the former isn’t straying too far from the fold. The two apparently have a gentlemen’s agreement that Duncan will stay on in some sort of mentorship capacity, and Pop has already threatened to fine Duncan for the time he’s missed so far. Via Melissa Rohlin of MySanAntonio.com:

“Most people under contract are required to show up for their jobs,” Popovich said Wednesday. “He said he didn’t have a contract, but I told him I thought we had a verbal contract, and I thought that was just as good as written. We’re having a tough time right now, the two of us, trying to get him straight. He’s always been tough to manage but especially so now that he’s retired.”

A modern day Odd Couple, Duncan and Pop would make a great subject for comic book or graphic novel. It’s nice to see that the five-time champ will remain a part of the organization even in retirement. The NBA will be a better place for it.

(MySanAntonio.com)

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