The Tim Duncan-Gregg Popovich era isn't over. Despite retiring from the game in 2016, Duncan will return to the Spurs sideline as San Antonio's newest assistant coach.
As known, Duncan had an impressive career as the focal piece of the Spurs dynasty. The 15-time All-Star won two NBA MVP awards and was named to 10 first-team All-NBA teams. But, some of his success should be credited to the shrewd coaching of Gregg Popovich. During Duncan's 19-year career, Pop helped the Spurs win five championships. The time and accolades they shared will have them connected for history. This is something Popovich joked about when announcing that Duncan has joined his coaching staff.
"It is only fitting, that after I served loyally for 19 years as Tim Duncan’s assistant, that he returns the favor," Popovich said in a statement to NBA.com.
Joining Ducan as one of the Spurs new assistant coaches is Will Hardy. Hardy began working with the Spurs as an intern in 2010. The Williams College graduate worked his way through the ranks and now has an opportunity to share the bench with Coach Pop.
"Will Hardy is a talented, young basketball mind who has earned a great deal of respect from everyone in the organization thanks to his knowledge, spirit and personality," Popovich said.
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