He is a favorite of Nets star Kevin Durant, league sources say, even dating as far back as the Oklahoma City Thunder’s coaching search process in 2015 (which ultimately concluded with the hire of Billy Donovan). There is known to be tremendous mutual respect between Popovich and KD. Durant’s presence and voice is powerful within the Nets’ franchise, and Popovich represents a bonding candidate between the two-time Finals MVP and Brooklyn’s front office. ESPN reported on Sunday evening that Durant and Irving have shown an interest in Popovich. In addition, Popovich has several connections to the Nets, including general manager Sean Marks, assistant GM Andy Birdsong, Vaughn, and assistant coaches Bret Brielmaier and Tiago Splitter. Marks, Vaughn and Splitter all played for Popovich in San Antonio too, with Marks and Vaughn serving as assistants under him at different points.
He is a favorite of Nets star Kevin Durant, league sour…
June 25, 2022 | 2:30 pm EDT Update
Blazers guarantee Josh Hart's contract for 2022-23 season
Aaron J. Fentress: Source: Blazers fully guarantee Josh Hart’s contract that will pay him $12.9 million next season. Deadline was today. There is a mutual option for the following season. This was absolutely a no-brainer. #RipCity
JD Shaw: The Philadelphia 76ers are bringing guard Malik Ellison to summer league, his agent Jerry Dianis tells @HoopsRumors. Ellison is the son of Pervis Ellison, who was drafted No. 1 overall in 1989. He signed a 10-day deal with the Atlanta Hawks this season.
Sean Highkin: Shaedon Sharpe on why he didn’t play at Kentucky: “Getting my body right, getting a little bit stronger, a little bit bigger. My mindset was, get my body right.”
Sean Highkin: Joe Cronin: “The goal is to win a championship. It’s plain and simple for us. We’re not content just making the playoffs and winning a round or two. Our goal is to take this to the peak and push it to the limit.”
Paul Garcia: Jeremy Sochan said Dejounte Murray already texted him to welcome him to the team. The players said they’ll be connecting with the other Spurs players soon.
Paul Garcia: Malaki Branham says his uncle was a big Spurs fan and Tim Duncan was one of his uncle’s favorite players, so Branham watched the Spurs growing up.
June 25, 2022 | 1:38 pm EDT Update
Keegan Murray on Kings: It's a dream come true
Jason Anderson: Kings forward Keegan Murray: “I’m excited to be here in Sacramento. It’s a dream come true to be able to put on the purple and black.”
