Gregg Popovich on LeBron James: “I have appreciated him from Day 1”

LeBron James received high praise from legendary head coach Gregg Popovich prior to Spurs-Lakers game.

Popovich, the legendary head coach of San Antonio, called LeBron’s game ‘complete’ and explained why he appreciates the four-time NBA champion.

“His game has been complete for a while. I’ve appreciated LeBron from Day 1. He never let (early criticism) to get to him.

It’s the mental toughness. It really impressed me at that young age for him to have that maturity,” coach Pop said, via Mike Trudell of Spectrum Sportsnet.

Pop continued: “I’ve appreciated LeBron from Day 1 … He never let (early criticism) to get to him … it’s the mental toughness. It really impressed me at that young age for him to have that maturity.” — Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) March 7, 2022

Gregg Popovich and LeBron James have squared off countless times ever since the “King” entered the NBA (2003). They have also faced each other in the NBA Finals (2007, 2014), with San Antonio winning both series.

The Spurs and the Lakers are fighting for a place in the play-in tournament. The 17-time NBA champions are ninth in the West, at 28-35. Meanwhile, San Antonio is 12th with a 24-40 record.

Gregg Popovich wants to win this game to tie Don Nelson’s record of 1,335 regular-season victories.

And he has a good chance to do so, since LeBron James will miss the contest. The Lakers have ruled him out with knee soreness, but are hopeful he will play Wednesday vs the Houston Rockets.

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