Spurs' Gregg Popovich Hall of Fame Speech Highlights His Evolution

Gregg Popovich is officially in the Hall of Fame, a lifetime achievement for his work with the San Antonio Spurs.

SAN ANTONIO - In all the years that Gregg Popovich has been with the San Antonio Spurs, it's hard to imagine he's ever spoken as much or as long about his family as he did on Saturday night during his Hall of Fame speech. 

Pop, in a very rare display, recognized his son and daughter. He even recognized his grandchildren and made them stand and be seen. It further humanized a man who's influence in this community probably won't ever properly be measured.

Admittedly softer now at 74 than he was when he was tyrannical towards a young point guard named Tony Parker, Pop has entered that phase in his professional life in which he has nothing to prove but remains for the enjoyment of it all. White-bearded and worn by time and age but as fluid as ever, Pop seems to relish his role as mentor, leader, sage, etc. not just of the Spurs but of an entire league of players, coaches and managers. 

Now that his speech is behind him Pop can get back to developing the latest phenom to grace the franchise. 

One can only imagine Victor Wembanyama watched those speeches and wondered if he too would have his day in Springfield. The man most responsible for at least Phase 1 of it all is Pop himself. Wemby can only hope he gets enough of Pop to have even half of what was bestowed on his countryman Parker all those years ago. 

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