Even as one of the most iconic and legendary head coaches in NBA history, Gregg Popovich has never put himself above the people. Over the years, Popovich has developed a reputation as one of the most socially conscious figures in all of professional sports.
With a majority of the social issues we see as a nation today pertaining to the marginalization of African-American people, Popovich has provided a refreshing take on the evils of racism as a white person.
Popovich was recently asked about being white and speaking on race issues that pertain to black people and the backlash he receives in San Antonio as a result of his socially responsible comments. Following from Jabari Young of San Antonio Express-News:
Popovich on being a white person discussing race and backlash he receives when giving his opinion on social issues #Spurs #NBA pic.twitter.com/f7hlDmnpjw
— Jabari Young (@JabariJYoung) March 27, 2018
It shouldn’t come as a surprise that Gregg Popovich is often subject to hatred and words of disgust. Racism still runs rampant in various areas across the nation and a deep-south Texas city such as San Antonio likely isn’t an exception.
As someone with a forward set of thinking on a plethora of social issues, Gregg Popovich is revered by many in the NBA community and rightfully so. His willingness to step forward and speak on what’s right despite the consequences is what will make him not only one of the best coaches to ever come through the NBA but also a pioneer.
