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Popovich coach of the year
Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich receives the Red Auerbach trophy for being chosen as the 2011-12 NBA coach of the year on Tuesday, May 1, 2012. Popovich was joined by his staff along with Spurs General Manager R.C. Buford for the announcement at their training facility. Kin Man Hui/Express-News. (KIN MAN HUI / SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich receives the Red Auerbach trophy for being chosen as the 2011-12 NBA coach of the year on Tuesday, May 1, 2012. Popovich was joined by his staff along with Spurs General Manager R.C. Buford for the announcement at their training facility. Kin Man Hui/Express-News. (KIN MAN HUI / SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich (right) receives the Red Auerbach trophy for being chosen as the 2011-12 NBA coach of the year on Tuesday, May 1, 2012. Popovich was joined by his staff along with Spurs General Manager R.C. Buford (front left) for the announcement at their training facility. Kin Man Hui/Express-News. (KIN MAN HUI / SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich (right) receives the Red Auerbach trophy for being chosen as the 2011-12 NBA coach of the year on Tuesday, May 1, 2012. Popovich was joined by his staff along with Spurs General Manager R.C. Buford (left) for the announcement at their training facility. Kin Man Hui/Express-News. (KIN MAN HUI / SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich receives the Red Auerbach trophy for being chosen as the 2011-12 NBA coach of the year on Tuesday, May 1, 2012. Popovich was joined by his staff along with Spurs General Manager R.C. Buford for the announcement at their training facility. Kin Man Hui/Express-News. (KIN MAN HUI / SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
San Antonio Spurs Coach Gregg Popovich talks to the media at the Spurs practice facility in San Antonio, Friday, Dec. 2, 2011. Photo Bob Owen/rowen@express-news.net (San Antonio Express-News)
San Antonio Spurs Coach Gregg Popovich appears to wring his hands as he answers a question during his first talk to the media since the end of the NBA lockout, at the Spurs practice facility in San Antonio, Friday, Dec. 2, 2011. Photo Bob Owen/rowen@express-news.net (San Antonio Express-News)
San Antonio Spurs Coach Gregg Popovich talks to the media at the Spurs practice facility in San Antonio, Friday, Dec. 2, 2011. Photo Bob Owen/rowen@express-news.net (San Antonio Express-News)
San Antonio Spurs Coach Gregg Popovich talks to the media at the Spurs practice facility in San Antonio, Friday, Dec. 2, 2011. Photo Bob Owen/rowen@express-news.net (San Antonio Express-News)
San Antonio Spurs Coach Gregg Popovich talks to the media at the Spurs practice facility in San Antonio, Friday, Dec. 2, 2011. Photo Bob Owen/rowen@express-news.net (San Antonio Express-News)
San Antonio Spurs Coach Gregg Popovich talks to the media at the Spurs practice facility in San Antonio, Friday, Dec. 2, 2011. Photo Bob Owen/rowen@express-news.net (San Antonio Express-News)
San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich talks with reporters at the team’s NBA basketball practice facility, Friday, Dec. 2, 2011, in San Antonio. (AP Photo/Eric Gay) (AP)
Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich cracks a smile during a question and answer session with media as players for the San Antonio Spurs attend their first team practice on Friday, Dec. 9, 2011. Kin Man Hui/kmhui@express-news.net (KIN MAN HUI / SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich, left, talks to San Antonio Spurs guard Cory Joseph (5) during the first half of a pre-season NBA basketball game against the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center Saturday, Dec. 17, 2011, in Houston. ( Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle ) (Chronicle)
FOR SPORTS – San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich calls a play against the Memphis Grizzles during first half action Monday Dec. 26, 2011 at the ATT Center. (PHOTO BY EDWARD A. ORNELAS/eaornelas@express-news.net) (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich, right, talks to official Kevin Fehr, left, during the second quarter of an NBA basketball game against the Houston Rockets, Thursday, Dec. 29, 2011, in Houston. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip) (AP)
San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich watches the action in the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Minnesota Timberwolves, Monday, Jan. 2, 2012, in Minneapolis. The Wolves won 106-96. (AP Photo/Jim Mone) (AP)
Spurs coach Gregg Popovich (right) reacts to his point guard Tony Parker (09) as teammate Tim Duncan congratulates Parker after scoring late in the fourth against the Golden State Warriors in the second half at the ATT Center on Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2012. Spurs won 101-95. Kin Man Hui/kmhui@express-news.net (KIN MAN HUI / SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
FOR SPORTS – San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich talks with San Antonio Spurs guard Tony Parker (9) and San Antonio Spurs guard Danny Green (4) during first half action Thursday Jan. 5, 2012 at the ATT Center. (PHOTO BY KEVIN MARTIN/kmartin@express-news.net) (KEVIN MARTIN / SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
FOR SPORTS – San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich looks on during first half action Thursday Jan. 5, 2012 at the ATT Center. (PHOTO BY EDWARD A. ORNELAS/eaornelas@express-news.net) (EDWARD A. ORNELAS / SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
FOR SPORTS – San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich looks on during second half action Thursday Jan. 5, 2012 at the ATT Center. (PHOTO BY EDWARD A. ORNELAS/eaornelas@express-news.net) (EDWARD A. ORNELAS / SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
San Antonio Spurs’ Tony Parker (left) talks with San Antonio Spurs’ head coach Gregg Popovich during second half action against the Denver Nuggets Saturday Jan. 7, 2012 at the ATT Center. The Spurs won 121-117. (PHOTO BY EDWARD A. ORNELAS/eaornelas@express-news.net) (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich, left, yells at Matt Bonner (15) during a time out against the Milwaukee Bucks during the second half of an NBA basketball game, Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2012, in Milwaukee. The Bucks won 106-103. (AP Photo/Jeffrey Phelps) (AP)
San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich reacts during overtime of an NBA basketball game against the Houston Rockets, Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2012, in San Antonio. San Antonio won 101-95 in overtime. (AP Photo/Eric Gay) (AP)
San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich reacts during a game against the Miami Heat at American Airlines Arena on January 17, 2012 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) (Getty Images)
Gregg Popovich argues a call with the referee as the Spurs play Sacramento at the ATT Center in San Antonio on January 20, 2012 Tom Reel/ San Antonio Express-News (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich talks with center Tiago Splitter (22) during the first half of an NBA basketball game against the New Orleans Hornets in New Orleans, Monday, Jan. 23, 2012. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert) (AP)
San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich talks to point guard Tony Parker (9) and guard Daniel Green (4) in the second half of an NBA basketball game in New Orleans, Monday, Jan. 23, 2012. The Spurs won 104-102. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert) (AP)
San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich, left, talks to Spurs’ Tony Parker, of France, during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Atlanta Hawks, Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2012, at the ATT Center in San Antonio. San Antonio won 105-83. (AP Photo/Darren Abate) (AP)
SPURS — San Antonio Spurs Head Coach Gregg Popovich talks with official Pat Fraher during the first half against the Atlanta Hawks at the ATT Center, Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2012. Jerry Lara/San Antonio Express-News (San Antonio Express-News)
San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich watches play during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Atlanta Hawks, Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2012, at the ATT Center in San Antonio. San Antonio won 105-83. (AP Photo/Darren Abate) (AP)
San Antonio Spurs point guard Tony Parker (9) closes his eyes and listens to coach Gregg Popovich during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Dallas Mavericks in Dallas, Sunday, Jan. 29, 2012. The Mavericks won 101-100 in overtime. (AP Photo/LM Otero) (AP)
San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich questions a call by official Matt Boland during first-half NBA action against the Houston Rockets at the ATT Center on Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2012. Billy Calzada / San Antonio Express-News
Houston Rockets at San Antonio Spurs (San Antonio Express-News)
San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich questions a call with referee Steve Anderson during the second half of an NBA basketball game in San Antonio Thursday, Feb. 2, 2012. The Spurs defeated the New Orleans Hornets 93-81. (AP Photo/Bahram Mark Sobhani) (AP)
San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich, right, talks to Tony Parker(9) as they play against the Philadelphia 76ers in the second half of an NBA basketball game on Wednesday, Feb., 8, 2012, in Philadelphia. The Spurs won 100-90. (AP Photo/H. Rumph Jr ) (AP)
San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich talks with official Marat Kobut in the first half against the New Jersey Nets during an NBA basketball game in Newark, N.J., Saturday, Feb. 11, 2012. The Spurs won 103-89. (AP Photo/Rich Schultz) (AP)
San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich argues a call during the second half on a NBA basketball game against the Utah Jazz, Monday, Feb. 20, 2012, in Salt Lake City. The Spurs won 106-102. (AP Photo/Jim Urquhart) (AP)
San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich shouts to his team in the fourth quarter during an NBA basketball game with the Portland Trail Blazers Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2012, in Portland, Ore. The Trail Blazers defeated the Spurs 137-97. (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer) (AP)
San Antonio Spurs point guard Tony Parker (9) and head coach Gregg Popovich, right, talk on the sideline during the second quarter of an NBA basketball game against the Denver Nuggets, Thursday, Feb. 23, 2012, in Denver. (AP Photo/Barry Gutierrez) (AP)
San Antonio Spurs Head Coach Gregg Popovich yells during the second half against the Chicago Bulls at the ATT Center, Wednesday, Feb. 29, 2012. The Bulls won 96-89. Jerry Lara/San Antonio Express-News (San Antonio Express-News)
Spurs coach Gregg Popovich points out a call to a game official during their game against the Charlotte Bobcats at the ATT Center on Friday, Mar. 2, 2012. Kin Man Hui/San Antonio Express-News (Kin Man Hui / San Antonio Express-News)
Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich yells at a referee after a call in the second half Spurs vs Nuggets, Sunday, March 4, 2012. The Nuggets beat the Spurs 99-94. (JENNIFER WHITNEY) (JENNIFER WHITNEY / SPECIAL TO THE EXPRESS-NEWS)
SPURS — San Antonio Surs head coach Gregg Popovich goes after official James Williams as assistant coaches Don Newman, left and Mike Budenholzer try to keep him away during the second half against the New York Knicks at the ATT Center, Wednesday, March 7, 2012. Popovich was eject in the process. The Spurs won 118-105. Jerry Lara/San Antonio Express-News (San Antonio Express-News)
SPURS — San Antonio Spurs Head Coach Gregg Popovich follows official James Williams before he is ejected during the second half against the New York Knicks at the ATT Center, Wednesday, March 7, 2012. The Spurs won 118-105. In back is Assistant Coach Don Newman. Jerry Lara/San Antonio Express-News (San Antonio Express-News)
San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich points to his players on the court during a NBA basketball game between the Washington Wizards and the San Antonio Spurs at the ATT Center in San Antonio, Texas on March 12, 2012.
John Albright / Special to the Express-News. (SPECIAL TO THE EXPRESS-NEWS)
San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich calls a play against the Washington Wizards during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Monday, March 12, 2012, in San Antonio. (AP Photo/Bahram Mark Sobhani) (AP)
Coach Gregg Popovich, left to right, Tony Parker, Tim Duncan, and Manu Ginobili, tell stories about Bruce Bowen at his Jersey Retirement Luncheon at the ATT Center, Monday, March 19, 2012. Bob Owen/San Antonio Express-News. (BOB OWEN / San Antonio Express-News)
San Antonio Spurs center Tim Duncan (right) and San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich present a jersey to David R. Schmidt, M.D. and Becky Whetstone, Ph.D who’s son Marine Lance Cpl. Benjamin Whetstone Schmidt was killed during a combat mission in the Helmand province in Afghanistan, where he was a scout sniper, on October 6, 2011. The presentation was made before a NBA basketball game between the Philadelphia 76ers and the San Antonio Spurs at the ATT Center in San Antonio, Texas on March 25, 2012.
John Albright / Special to the Express-News. (San Antonio Express-News)
San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich yells to his players during a NBA basketball game between the Philadelphia 76ers and the San Antonio Spurs at the ATT Center in San Antonio, Texas on March 25, 2012.
John Albright / Special to the Express-News. (San Antonio Express-News)
San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich talks with San Antonio Spurs power forward Matt Bonner (15) during a NBA basketball game between the Philadelphia 76ers and the San Antonio Spurs at the ATT Center in San Antonio, Texas on March 25, 2012.
John Albright / Special to the Express-News. (SPECIAL TO THE EXPRESS-NEWS)
San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich during a NBA basketball game between the Philadelphia 76ers and the San Antonio Spurs at the ATT Center in San Antonio, Texas on March 25, 2012.
John Albright / Special to the Express-News. (San Antonio Express-News)
San Antonio Spurs shooting guard Manu Ginobili (20) and San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich argue with referee Joe Crawford (left) during a NBA basketball game between the Philadelphia 76ers and the San Antonio Spurs at the ATT Center in San Antonio, Texas on March 25, 2012.
John Albright / Special to the Express-News. (San Antonio Express-News)
San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich argues a call during a NBA basketball game between the Philadelphia 76ers and the San Antonio Spurs at the ATT Center in San Antonio, Texas on March 25, 2012.
John Albright / Special to the Express-News. (San Antonio Express-News)
San Antonio Spurs center Tim Duncan (right) joins San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich (left) and the assistant coaches on the floor during a time out during a NBA basketball game between the Philadelphia 76ers and the San Antonio Spurs at the ATT Center in San Antonio, Texas on March 25, 2012. Duncan sat out Sunday’s game against the 76ers.
John Albright / Special to the Express-News. (SPECIAL TO THE EXPRESS-NEWS)
Spurs coach Gregg Popovich (right) chats with Tony Parker (09) during a timeout in a game against the Indiana Pacers at the ATT Center on Saturday, Mar. 31, 2012. Kin Man Hui/Express-News. (Kin Man Hui / San Antonio Express-News)
San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich watches play during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the New Orleans Hornets, Friday, April 6, 2012, in San Antonio. The Spurs won 128-103. (AP Photo/Darren Abate) (AP)
San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich, right, talks to Tim Duncan during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the New Orleans Hornets, Friday, April 6, 2012, in San Antonio. San Antonio won 128-103. (AP Photo/Darren Abate) (AP)
San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich, left, talks to Spurs’ Tony Parker, of France, during the first half of an NBA basketball game against the Utah Jazz, Sunday, April 8, 2012, in San Antonio. (AP Photo/Darren Abate) (AP)
San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich watches his team during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Utah Jazz on Monday, April 9, 2012, in Salt Lake City. The Jazz won 91-84. (AP Photo/Jim Urquhart) (AP)
San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich talks to his players during the first quarter of an NBA basketball game against the Los Angeles Lakers, Wednesday, April 11, 2012, in San Antonio. The Lakers won 98-84. (AP Photo/Eric Gay) (AP)
Spurs coach Gregg Popovich appear less than pleased by his team’s play against the Los Angeles Lakers at the ATT Center on Wednesday, Apr. 11, 2012. Spurs lose to the Lakers, 84-98. Kin Man Hui/Express-News. (San Antonio Express-News)
San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich, right, talks with Memphis Grizzlies’ Mike Conley (11) during the first quarter of an NBA basketball game on Thursday, April 12, 2012, in San Antonio. (AP Photo/Eric Gay) (AP)
San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich, right, talks with Tony Parker, left, of France, during the fourth quarter of an NBA basketball game against the Memphis Grizzlies, Thursday, April 12, 2012, in San Antonio. San Antonio won 107-97.(AP Photo/Eric Gay) (AP)
FOR SPORTS – San Antonio Spurs’ head coach Gregg Popovich yells instructions to the team against the Memphis Grizzlies during second half action Thursday April 12, 2012 at the ATT Center. The Spurs won 107-97. (PHOTO BY EDWARD A. ORNELAS/SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS) (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich, center, talks with guard Tony Parker, of France, during the third quarter of an NBA basketball game, Saturday, April 14, 2012, in San Antonio. Spurs assistant coach Mike Budenholzer is left and assistant coach Don Newman is right. (AP Photo/Eric Gay) (AP)
San Antonio Spurs point guard Tony Parker (9), from France, talks with head coach Gregg Popovich during the first quarter of an NBA basketball game against the Golden State Warriors in Oakland, Calif., Monday, April 16, 2012. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu) (AP)
San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich, demonstrates to official that the ball had been kicked during play in the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Sacramento Kings in Sacramento, Calif., Wednesday, April 18, 2012. The Spurs won 127-102.(AP Photo/Rich Pedroncelli) (AP)
Spurs coach Gregg Popovich debates a call with a game official during the first half against the Los Angeles Lakers at the ATT Center on Friday, Apr. 20, 2012. Kin Man Hui/Express-News. (San Antonio Express-News)
FOR SPORTS – San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich yells instructions to the team against the Cleveland Cavaliers during second half action Sunday April 22, 2012 at the ATT Center. The Spurs won 114-98. (PHOTO BY EDWARD A. ORNELAS/SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS) (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich, left, greets his players during a timeout in the fourth quarter of an NBA basketball game against the Portland Trail Blazers, Monday, April 23, 2012, in San Antonio. San Antonio won 124-89, clinching the top seed in the Western Conference. (AP Photo/Eric Gay) (AP)
San Antonio Spurs Head Coach Gregg Popovich talks with Manu Ginobili during a break in their game against the Portland Trail Blazer at the ATT Center, Monday, April 23, 2012. Jerry Lara/San Antonio Express-News (San Antonio Express-News)
San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich argues after he was charged with a technical foul during the fourth quarter of Game 1 of a first-round NBA basketball playoff series against the Utah Jazz, Sunday, April 29, 2012, in San Antonio. San Antonio won 106-91.(AP Photo/Eric Gay) (AP)
San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich argues a call during the fourth quarter of Game 1 of a first-round NBA basketball playoff series against the Utah Jazz, Sunday, April 29, 2012, in San Antonio. San Antonio won 106-91.(AP Photo/Eric Gay) (AP)
FOR SPORTS – San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich calls for a timeout during second half action of Game 1 of the Western Conference first round against the Utah Jazz Sunday April 29, 2012 at the ATT Center. The Spurs won 106-91. (PHOTO BY EDWARD A. ORNELAS/SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS) (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
SPURS — San Antonio Spurs Head Coach Gregg Popovich gets a technical foul during the second half of game one of the Western Conference first round at the ATT Center, Sunday, April 29, 2012. The Spurs beat the Utah Jazz, 106-91, to lead the series 1-0. Jerry Lara/San Antonio Express-News (San Antonio Express-News)
SPURS — San Antonio Spurs Head Coach Gregg Popovich looks on as the take on the Utah Jazz in game one of the Western Conference first round at the ATT Center, Sunday, April 29, 2012. Jerry Lara/San Antonio Express-News (San Antonio Express-News)
Column by Buck Harvey
Gregg Popovich will leave eventually, and Tuesday made that more difficult for him. He now has additional hardware to pack.
And when that day comes, as it did last season for Jerry Sloan, the Spurs will be lucky to find a like-minded replacement. As Utah did.
The Spurs will be lucky if their next coach is as comfortable with who he is. Who is as driven and solid and experienced. And whose personality allows him to follow an icon.
The Spurs will be lucky to find their own Tyrone Corbin.
The Spurs might; they found Corbin a long time ago, after all. He was one of their second-round draft picks in 1985.
Those weren’t the same Spurs. The George Gervin glory years had passed, and they were scrambling. What happened before that draft didn’t help them.
Because the Spurs and Jazz had ended with the same regular-season record, they flipped a coin to determine who would draft 13th and who would draft 14th. The Jazz won, though not many thought much of it at the time.
Utah was prepared to take Terry Porter, who would later become a Spur. There were other options, too, such as Joe Dumars.
But then a muscled talent named Karl Malone fell on draft day, and Jazz officials looked at each other: Don’t we have to take him?
The Spurs, picking next, were likely stunned at what had happened in front of them. That’s one way to explain what they did next.
Instead of Porter or Dumars, the Spurs opted for a historic mistake named Alfredrick Hughes. He would become known for speeding tickets, as well as how fast he left the league.
In the second round, with their third pick, they shrugged and drafted a ’tweener from DePaul. Corbin, at 6-foot-6 wasn’t much of a shooter. But he defended and came to work determined to find a place in the league. Sloan had been the same.
Those who slam their hands into glass in anger, when they aren’t bumping officials, aren’t the ones who become coaches. They are usually the ones without overwhelming talent who need to think the game.
Marc Iavaroni, now a Clippers assistant, was another. He was on the Spurs’ bench and fondly remembers Corbin as a rookie.
“Really a straight-up guy,” Iavaroni said Tuesday. “Unselfish, hard-nosed, good teammate.”
These were the qualities that kept Corbin employed. He didn’t last long with the Spurs (though longer than Hughes), yet he went on to play for nine teams, two of them twice.
He played for a stretch in Utah. And when Corbin retired, Sloan brought him back as an assistant. He kept that position for seven years.
Among those who tried to hire him away: Iavaroni, when he was once the coach of the Grizzlies.
Corbin stayed and did his job the same way he played, until the Jazz franchise imploded last season. Sloan had been with his franchise longer than any active coach, and suddenly that era was over. The departure of Popovich, who inherited the dean’s role from Sloan, will someday end another era.
But there was more going on in Utah. Deron Williams was traded, and there was a sense Utah had come apart. Corbin was left with the pieces. Or, as one NBA general manager called it this week, “the middle of a storm.”
What followed impressed nearly everyone. Corbin followed Sloan’s blueprint, but with his own presence. Corbin has been consistent and tough and calm, and the Jazz have played accordingly.
The reason Utah has a chance to win tonight: It starts with him.
He will be pressed against the Spurs, and Corbin knows that. Tuesday he compared Tony Parker’s ability to control a game to John Stockton’s.
In Utah, that’s high praise.
But as one of the least experienced playoff coaches goes against one of the most experienced, as Corbin faces off against this season’s coach of the year, the Spurs should take notice what he has become since he left South Texas.
He has become what they will be lucky to have, when Popovich eventually leaves.
bharvey@express-news.net
Twitter: @Buck_SA
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Popovich vs. The Refs
SPORTS — Spurs coach Gregg Popovich talks Monday night April 30, 2007 at the Pepsi Center in Denver to referee Bill Kennedy during the Spurs’ game against the Nuggets. (WILLIAM LUTHER/STAFF) (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich, left, argues a call with official Tim Donaghy during the fourth quarte of an NBA basketball game against the Indiana Pacers in Indianapolis, Sunday, Feb. 12, 2006. San Antonio defeated Indiana 92-88. (AP Photo/Darron Cummings) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)
SPORTS – Greg Popovich and Manu Ginobili question a cal by ref Jason Phillips in the first half Wednesday, November 7, 2007 at the ATT Center. BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI/STAFF (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS)
SPORTS Spurs coach Greg Popovich gets tossed from the game against the Raptors in the fourth quarter Friday at the ATT Center. Referee Bob Delaney had heard enough complaining after a close call on Tim Duncan. San Antonio Spurs versus the Toronto Raptors at the ATT Center in San Antonio, December 28, 2007. Tom Reel/Staff December 28, 2007. (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
SPORTS Spurs coach Greg Popovich gestures wildly as he gets tossed out of the game against Toronto by referee Bob Delaney. San Antonio Spurs versus the Toronto Raptors at the ATT Center in San Antonio, December 28, 2007. Tom Reel/Staff December 28, 2007. (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
SPORTS Spurs coach Greg Popovich comes back on the court to say a final complaint against referee Bob Delaney in the fourth quarter against Toronto Friday. San Antonio Spurs versus the Toronto Raptors at the ATT Center in San Antonio, December 28, 2007. Tom Reel/Staff December 28, 2007. (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich, right, is held back by assistant coach Don Newman, left, while arguing with officials during the second quarter of their NBA basketball game against the Indiana Pacers in San Antonio, Thursday, March 6, 2008. Popovich was ejected from the game. (AP Photo/Eric Gay) (AP)
SPTS- Spurs Greg Popovich argues with officials as assistnat Don Newman holds him back and then he is ejected in the 2nd period of play against theIndiana Pacersat the att center Thursday March 6 (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS)
FOR SPORTS – Spurs’ headcoach Gregg Popovich walks along the bench during first half action of Game 4 in the First Round of the Western Conference Playoffs against the Mavericks Saturday April 25, 2009 at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Tx. (PHOTO BY EDWARD A. ORNELAS/eaornelas@express-news.net) (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich, is held back moments before he leaves the court upon being ejected early in the second quarter of NBA action against Dallas in the ATT Center on Friday, Jan. 8, 2010. BILLY CALZADA / gcalzada@express-news.netDallas Mavericks vs. San Antonio Spurs (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich yells at official Joe Crawford moments before he leaves the ATT Center court upon being ejected early in the second quarter during NBA action against Dallas on Friday, Jan. 8, 2010. BILLY CALZADA / gcalzada@express-news.netDallas Mavericks vs. San Antonio Spurs (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
NBA official Marc Davis, right, listens to San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich make his point in the first half of an NBA basketball game against the Detroit Pistons, Sunday, Feb. 21, 2010, in Auburn Hills, Mich. (AP Photo/Duane Burleson) (AP)
FOR SPORTS – Spurs’ headcoach Gregg Popovich reacts after a foul was called on Spurs’ Keith Bogans during second half action of Game 1 of the first round of the Western Conference playoffs against the Mavericks Sunday April 18, 2010 at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Tx. The Mavericks won 100-94. (PHOTO BY EDWARD A. ORNELAS/eaornelas@express-news.net) (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich is restrianed by assistant coach Mike Budenholzer and Hank Egan after Popovich protested a flagrant foul call on Danny Ferry at the Alamodome on Monday, May 7, 2001. Popovich received a douvle technical and was ejected in the 2nd quarter. Kin Man Hui/staff. (San Antonio Express-News)
SPORTS/DAILY/STAFF PHOTO BY WILLIAM LUTHER — Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich is restrained by assistant coach Mike Budenholzer after protesting a flagfrant foul call against Danny Ferry. Popovich received a double techincal and was ejected during 2nd period Monday May 7, 2001 at the Alamodome (EN)
Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich is restrianed by assistant coach Hank Egan after Popovich protetsed a flagrant foul call on Danny Ferry at the Alamodome on Monday, May 7, 2001. Popovich received a douvle technical and was ejected in the 2nd quarter. Kin Man Hui/staff. (San Antonio Express-News)
San Antonio Spurs head coach Greg Popovich and San Antonio Spurs small forward Richard Jefferson (24) argue a call with NBA official Curtis Blair during a NBA basketball game between the San Antonio Spurs and the Dallas Mavericks at the ATT Center in San Antonio, Texas on November 26, 2010 John Albright / Special to the Express-News. (San Antonio Express-News)
San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich gestures to his players in the second half of an NBA basketball game against the New Orleans Hornets in New Orleans, Sunday, Nov. 28, 2010. San Antonio defeated New Orleans 109-95. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky) (AP)
San Antonio Spurs’ head coach Gregg Popovich yells to his team during the first half of an NBA basketball game against the New Orleans Hornets, Sunday, Dec. 5, 2010. (Darren Abate/Special to the Express-News) (Darren Abate/Special to the Expr)
FOR SPORTS – Spurs’ Head Coach Gregg Popovich looks for a call during first half action against the Hawks Friday Dec. 10, 2010 at the ATT Center. (PHOTO BY EDWARD A. ORNELAS/eaornelas@express-news.net) (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich reacts during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Denver Nuggets, Wednesday, Dec. 22, 2010, in San Antonio. San Antonio won 109-103. (AP Photo/Darren Abate) (AP)
SPURS — San Antonio Spurs Head Coach Gregg Popovich gets in the face of Marc Davis during second half against the Denver Nuggets at the ATT Center, Wednesday, Dec. 22, 2010. The Spurs won 109-103. JERRY LARA/glara@express-news.net (San Antonio Express-News)
San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich yells during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Washington Wizards, Sunday, Dec. 26, 2010, in San Antonio. San Antonio won 94-80. (Darren Abate/Special to the Express-News) (Darren Abate/Special to the Expr)
San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich yells during the first half of an NBA basketball game against the Oklahoma City Thunder, Saturday, Jan. 1, 2011, in San Antonio. San Antonio won 101-74. (AP Photo/Darren Abate) (AP)
Spurs’ coach Gregg Popovich (center) argues with official Kevin Fehr (07) after a questionable play by Dallas Mavericks’ Jason Terry on Spurs’ Manu Ginobili in the first half at the ATT Center on Friday, Jan. 14, 2011. Kin Man Hui/kmhui@express-news.net (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
FOR SPORTS – Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich and Nuggets head coach George Karl talk with official Mike Callahan during first half action Sunday Jan. 16, 2011 at the ATT Center. (PHOTO BY EDWARD A. ORNELAS/eaornelas@express-news.net) (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
SPURS — San Antonio Spurs Head Coach Gregg Popovich argues a call with Leroy Richardson in the second half against the Toronto Raptors at the ATT Center, Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2011. The Spur won 104-95 and improve to 36-6. JERRY LARA/glara@express-news.net (San Antonio Express-News)
San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich watches as official Jason Phillips makes a call against his team during second-half NBA action against the Oklahoma City Thunder at the ATT Center on Wednesday, Feb. 23, 2011. BILLY CALZADA / gcalzada@express-news.netOklahoma City Thunder at San Antonio Spurs (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
Spurs coach Gregg Popvich (left) exhanges words with game official Bill Kennedy during a game against New Jersey Nets in the first half at the ATT Center on Friday, Feb. 25, 2011. Kin Man Hui/kmhui@express-news.net (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
SPURS — San Antonio Spurs Head Coach Gregg Popovich prostest a call by Bennett Salvatore during their game against the Los Angeles Lakers, at the ATT Center, Sunday, March 6, 2011. JERRY LARA/glara@express-news.net (San Antonio Express-News)
San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich yells during the first half of an NBA basketball game against the Charlotte Bobcats, Saturday, March 19, 2011, in San Antonio. (AP Photo/Darren Abate) (AP)
FOR SPORTS – Spurs’ head coach Gregg Popovich reacts after a play against the Bobcats during first half action Saturday March 19, 2011 at the ATT Center. (PHOTO BY EDWARD A. ORNELAS/eaornelas@express-news.net) (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
FOR SPORTS – Spurs’ head coach Gregg Popovich looks for a call from official Bill Kennedy during second half action against the Warriors Monday March 21, 2011 at the ATT Center. The Spurs won 111-96. (PHOTO BY EDWARD A. ORNELAS/eaornelas@express-news.net) (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
SPURS — San Antonio Spurs Head Coach Gregg Popovich discusses a call with Official Curtis Blair in the first half against the Sacramento Kings at the ATT Center, Wednesday, April 6, 2011. JERRY LARA/glara@express-news.net (San Antonio Express-News)
San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich reacts during the first quarter of an NBA basketball game against the Utah Jazz, Saturday, April 9, 2011, in San Antonio. (AP Photo/Eric Gay) (AP)
San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich yells during the first half of an NBA playoff basketball game against the Memphis Grizzlies, Sunday, April 17, 2011, in San Antonio. (AP Photo/Darren Abate) (AP)
SPURS — San Antonio Spurs Head Coach Gregg Popovich reacts to a call in their game against the Memphis Grizzlies in the NBA Western Conference First Round at the ATT Center, Sunday, April 17, 2011. Next Popovich is official Ed Malloy. JERRY LARA/glara@express-news.net (San Antonio Express-News)
SPURS — San Antonio Spurs Head Coach Gregg Popovich tries to talk with official Leon Wood during their game against the Memphis Grizzlies in the second game of the Western Conference Quarter Finals at the ATT Center, April 20, 2011. JERRY LARA/glara@express-news.net (San Antonio Express-News)
FOR SPORTS – San Antonio Spurs’ head coach Gregg Popovich reacts during second half action of Game 2 of the first round of the Western Conference playoffs against the Memphis Grizzlies at the ATT Center Wednesday April 20, 2011. The Spurs won 93-87.(PHOTO BY EDWARD A. ORNELAS/eaornelas@express-news.net) (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
San Antonio coach Gregg Popovich talks to official Bob Delaney in Game 5 of the first round of the Western Conference playoff at the ATT Center on Wednesday, April 27, 2011. Kin Man Hui/kmhui@express-news.net (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
SPURS — San Antonio Spurs Head Coach Gregg Popovich yells to official Jason Phillips for a timeout against the Memphis Grizzlies during first half of game six of the Western Conference First Round at FedExForum, Friday, April 29, 2011. JERRY LARA/glara@express-news.net (San Antonio Express-News)
SPURS — San Antonio Spurs Head Coach Gregg Popovich during second half of game six of the Western Conference First Round at FedExForum, Friday, April 29, 2011. The lost to the Memphis Grizzlies 99-91 and the series 4-2. JERRY LARA/glara@express-news.net (San Antonio Express-News)
Spurs coach Gregg Popvich yells at referee Ron Garretson during 1st half action at the Alamodome Sat May 19, 2001. WILLIAM LUTHER/STAFF (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
FOR SPORTS – San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich calls a play against the Memphis Grizzles during first half action Monday Dec. 26, 2011 at the ATT Center. (PHOTO BY EDWARD A. ORNELAS/eaornelas@express-news.net) (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich, right, talks to official Kevin Fehr, left, during the second quarter of an NBA basketball game against the Houston Rockets, Thursday, Dec. 29, 2011, in Houston. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip) (AP)
FOR SPORTS – San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich looks on during first half action Thursday Jan. 5, 2012 at the ATT Center. (PHOTO BY EDWARD A. ORNELAS/eaornelas@express-news.net) (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich reacts during overtime of an NBA basketball game against the Houston Rockets, Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2012, in San Antonio. San Antonio won 101-95 in overtime. (AP Photo/Eric Gay) (AP)
MIAMI, FL – JANUARY 17: San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich reacts during a game against the Miami Heat at American Airlines Arena on January 17, 2012 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) (Getty Images)
SPORTS Greg Popovich argues a call with the referee as the Spurs play Sacramento at the ATT Center in San Antonio on January 20, 2012 Tom Reel/ San Antonio Express-News (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
SPURS — San Antonio Spurs Head Coach Gregg Popovich talks with official Pat Fraher during the first half against the Atlanta Hawks at the ATT Center, Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2012. Jerry Lara/San Antonio Express-News (San Antonio Express-News)
San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich questions a call by official Matt Boland during first-half NBA action against the Houston Rockets at the ATT Center on Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2012. Billy Calzada / San Antonio Express-NewsHouston Rockets at San Antonio Spurs (San Antonio Express-News)
San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich questions a call with referee Steve Anderson during the second half of an NBA basketball game in San Antonio Thursday, Feb. 2, 2012. The Spurs defeated the New Orleans Hornets 93-81. (AP Photo/Bahram Mark Sobhani) (AP)
San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich talks with official Marat Kobut in the first half against the New Jersey Nets during an NBA basketball game in Newark, N.J., Saturday, Feb. 11, 2012. The Spurs won 103-89. (AP Photo/Rich Schultz) (AP)
San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich argues a call during the second half on a NBA basketball game against the Utah Jazz, Monday, Feb. 20, 2012, in Salt Lake City. The Spurs won 106-102. (AP Photo/Jim Urquhart) (AP)
San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich shouts to his team in the fourth quarter during an NBA basketball game with the Portland Trail Blazers Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2012, in Portland, Ore. The Trail Blazers defeated the Spurs 137-97. (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer) (AP)
SPURS — San Antonio Spurs Head Coach Gregg Popovich yells during the second half against the Chicago Bulls at the ATT Center, Wednesday, Feb. 29, 2012. The Bulls won 96-89. Jerry Lara/San Antonio Express-News (San Antonio Express-News)
Spurs coach Gregg Popovich points out a call to a game official during their game against the Charlotte Bobcats at the ATT Center on Friday, Mar. 2, 2012. Kin Man Hui/San Antonio Express-News (San Antonio Express-News)
Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich yells at a referee after a call in the second half Spurs vs Nuggets, Sunday, March 4, 2012. The Nuggets beat the Spurs 99-94. (JENNIFER WHITNEY) (special to the Express-News)
San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich, center, yells at referee James Williams, left, before being ejected in the second half of an NBA basketball game against the New York Knicks, Wednesday, March 7, 2012, in San Antonio. San Antonio won 118-105. (AP Photo/Darren Abate) (AP)
San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich, right, continues to yell at referee James Williams (60) after being ejected in the second half of an NBA basketball game against the New York Knicks, Wednesday, March 7, 2012, in San Antonio. San Antonio won 118-105. (AP Photo/Darren Abate) (AP)
SPURS — San Antonio Surs head coach Gregg Popovich goes after official James Williams as assistant coaches Don Newman, left and Mike Budenholzer try to keep him away during the second half against the New York Knicks at the ATT Center, Wednesday, March 7, 2012. Popovich was eject in the process. The Spurs won 118-105. Jerry Lara/San Antonio Express-News (San Antonio Express-News)
SPURS — San Antonio Spurs Head Coach Gregg Popovich follows official James Williams before he is ejected during the second half against the New York Knicks at the ATT Center, Wednesday, March 7, 2012. The Spurs won 118-105. In back is Assistant Coach Don Newman. Jerry Lara/San Antonio Express-News (San Antonio Express-News)
Spurs coach Gregg Popovich shares his thoughts with referee Derek Stafford during first period action game 2 Western Conference semifinals at the SBC Center May 7, 2003. William Luther/Staff (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
The Spurs Head Coach Gregg Popovich has a confrontational discussion with Blane Reichelt, an NBA referee in the fourth quarter of game 5 of the Western Conference semifinals at the SBC Center in San Antonio on Tuesday, May 17, 2005. (Kin Man Hui/staff) (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
Gregg Popovich screams at the referees about the lack of foul calls for the Spurs during first quarter action game four NBA Finals on Thursday, June 16, 2005 at the Palace at Auburn Hills. Popovich received a technical foul. BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI/STAFF (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS)
Spurs’ coach Gregg Popovich reacts to a technical foul called against him as assistant coach Don Newman holds him back during first quarter action game four of the NBA Finals at The Palace of Auburn Hills near Detroit, Michigan on Tuesday, June 14, 2005. (Kin Man Hui/staff) (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
SPORTS – Spurs coach Gregg Popovich (right) screams at NBA referee Gary Benson and as a result gets tossed from the game against the Indiana Pacers on Friday, January 4, 2002. Kin Man Hui/staff. (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
Sports – San Antonio Spurs Coach Gregg Popovich watches his team closly as they play against the Memphis Grizzlies, Sunday, April 9, 2006. Photo Bob Owen (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
Spurs’ coach Gregg Popovich (right) argues a call with a referee against Sacramento Kings’ in the first half of Game 6 of the first round of the 2006 NBA Western Conference playoffs at the Arco Arena in Sacramento on Friday, May 5, 2006. (Kin Man Hui/staff) (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
SPORTS — The Spurs’ Gregg Popovich, left, and Tim Duncan talk Tuesday night May 9, 2006 at the ATT Center to the officials about a call during the second game of their Western Conference Semi-Finals match-up against the Dallas Mavericks. (BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI/STAFF) (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS)
SPORTS — Coach Gregg Popovich and Michael Finley argue with ref Eddie Rush in the fourth quarter Tuesday night May 9, 2006 at the ATT Center during the second game of their Western Conference Semi-Finals match-up. The Spurs lost 91-113. (BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI/STAFF) (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS)
San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich reacts to a call during second half action against the Dallas Mavericks in Game 7 of the Western Conference semifinals during the 2006 NBA playoffs in San Antonio, Texas May 22, 2006. The Mavericks defeated the Spurs 119-111 to advance to the Western Conference finals. REUTERS/Joe Mitchell (REUTERS)
The San Antonio Spurs’ head coach Gregg Popovich confers with game official #16, Ted Bernhardt, who fans accused of missing calls against the Nets throughout the second half Tuesday, Jan. 22, 2002 at the Alamodome in San Antonio. (KAREN L. SHAW/STAFF) (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
SPORTS – Spurs coach Gregg Popovich has words with an official during second-quarter action against the Memphis Grizzlies in the San Antonio Alamodome on Tuesday, March 12, 2002. BILLY CALZADA / STAFF (SAN ANTONIIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
SPORTS Spurs coach Greg Popovich expresses his displeasure with the officiating in the game against the Knicks Saturday night at the ATT Center. SAN ANTONIO SPURS VERSUS NEW YORK KNICKS AT THE ATT CENTER TOM REEL/STAFF NOVEMBER 11, 2006. (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich, left, is held back by assistant coach Don Newman after Popovich was ejected during the fourth quarter of an NBA basketball game Tuesday, Jan. 2, 2007, in Cleveland. The Cavaliers won 82-78. (AP Photo/Tony Dejak) (AP)
San Antonio Spurs Head Coach Gregg Popovich discusses a call with referee Jack Nies during the second half of game one of the first round against the Denver Nuggets at the att Center on Sunday, April 22, 2007. ( JERRY LARA STAFF ) (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS)
