“I am 62”: Gregg Popovich’s Retirement Has Charles Barkley Pondering His Own Life

After spending 29 seasons on the San Antonio Spurs bench, Gregg Popovich has finally decided to step down from his role as head coach at the age of 76.

The five-time champion didnt show many signs of wanting to retire, but the unfortunate passing of his wife, followed by health issues including a mild stroke signified to Pop that it was time to step down.Charles Barkley and the Inside the NBA crew took time to praise Pops efforts in both the military and the NBA, lauding the fact that Popovich both served his country and transformed the league.

Pops somewhat sudden decision also made Barkley reflect on his own life, which has also been blessed by the game of basketball.All of Shaquille ONeal, Kenny Smith, and Chuck were able to witness Coach Popovichs wizardry both in their playing and post-playing days.

Each of them has grown to have a great respect for Pop, who helped shape the Spurs into the 21st centurys flagship NBA dynasty.

It also made them appreciate where they are in their own lives.I am 62, Chuck said before Shaq interrupted with a surprised, D*mn!, calling out the 1993 MVPs age.

Because of that stupid little ball, I have lived the greatest life ever.

I cant believe how lucky and blessed Ive been.

Thank you for what you did for the game, Coach Pop.Popovich was known to have a close bond with his players, especially the talents he coached to championships.

Several of his former players have spoken about his retirement, thanking him for what he did for them and wishing him the best in his next endeavor becoming the Spurs full-time President of Basketball Operations.Kawhi Leonard made his feeling toward his former coach clearEven after a blowout playoff defeat at the hands of the Denver Nuggets, Kawhi Leonard couldnt help but to gush over his former head coach, who watched him transform from a role player into a bona fide superstar.

The two-time champion had plenty to say about Coach Pop in his postgame press conference on Saturday.[Popovich] had a phenomenal career.

He coached until pretty much he couldnt in a sense, Leonard said.

It shows how much dedication he had to the game, how much he loved the game, and how much he gave to the game.I appreciate everything hes done for me.

Coming into the league, he helped build my foundation and showed me how to win.

I want to congratulate him on his career.

But also, stay healthy.Kawhi Leonard didnt have the most seamless exit from San Antonio in 2018, but its clear hell never forget where he came from.

The Klaws instincts and intangibles were perfected during his time with the Spurs, and without Coach Pop, he may have not become the future Hall of Famer we know today.The post I am 62: Gregg Popovichs Retirement Has Charles Barkley Pondering His Own Life appeared first on The SportsRush..

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