The Spurs and each players role...

First off, let me just say that Im not saying the Spurs will win it all or wont or anything like that. Its going 7 games and I have no clue who will win it.

But, I cant remember the last team that had this many quality players and each players role is so defined and easy to see.

And it all starts with the coach. Pop understands the flow of the game better than majority of coaches to ever coach in the NBA. Also knows his team and what they are capable of and knows his opponent as good as any. He calls the right plays and the team respects him and actually runs what he calls. And it works. This is pretty much nonexistent in todays basketball. Its all 1v1 iso and pick and rolls. Works sometimes, but I would rather have a team that runs the O and plays like the Spurs and passes.

Now the players know their role because of how Pop coaches.

Tony Parker - The catalyst. It all starts with Tony and him getting in the paint. He sets up and runs the O and rarely makes a mental mistake or a turnover. Finishes around the rim and great passer and basketball IQ.

Tim Duncan - Mr. Reliabe for the Spurs. No matter what goes on in the game, Tim will get his 18pts and 12rebs and doesnt need to play a lot of minutes to get it. Extremely efficent. Leader by example and doesnt pay attention to off the court stuff. Been doing it for years and is the best PF ever to play.

Manu - Usually off the bench. Take advantage of mismatch. Clutch clutch clutch. Might not fill up the stat sheet in his older age, but can still ball and makes the big shot more than not. Also a good passer.


Danny Green - Definition of a Pop / Spurs player. Been in the league a few years. In and out of the NBA and D League. Overlooked by many. Last season was strictly a 3 specialists, now hes a phenominal defender and is scoring in many ways. Mostly still by the 3, but is improved on offense. Hes a heck of a scorer for the Spurs.

Kawhi Leonard - Love this kids game and mentality. Tough, gritty, and isnt afraid to get dirty out there. Guards the other teams best player and does a great job. Rebounds, efficient scorer and more importantly brings that tough attitude you need in the finals. Might not drop 18 a night, but will work his butt off rebounding and on the defensive end and isnt selfish on offense. If he only gets 8 shots a game he wont be mad about it and will make 5 of them. Every team that hopes to make it far in the playoffs needs a guy like Kawhi to get them there.

Tiago Splitter - Runs the offense, also a non selfish player. Doesnt try to force too much. Solid 8-10pts a night type player on good post moves and good touch. Solid rebounder. Not the most physical, but works hard.

Gary Neal - Another guy like Danny Green. Went undrafted and was overlooked. Went and dominated in Europe for a few years. Sharp shooter / scorer off the bench. Tough nosed and hard working player.

Boris Diaw - Utility player. Can play inside and bang with the bigs and great rebounder. Also can step outside the 3 and knock it down. Good defender. Tough player.

Matt Bonner - 3 point specialists. Kyle Korver type guy. When hes in the game, you gotta guard him and not let him get space beyond the arc. If not, its pretty much in.

DeJuan Blair - Looked great as a rookie and 2nd year guy. Seeing reduced minutes, but isnt selfish about it. Hard worked. Might not get a lot of minutes, but gets the most out of them.

Corey Joseph - Young PG who has seen minutes due to Tonys hamstring. Moved from the NBA and D league quite a bit this year. But, Pop has done a great job coaching him up to the level hes at right now. Hes a decent scorer, but more importantly the Spurs are able to play him because he doesnt make many mistakes and works on the defensive end.

All in all, regardless of who wins this series, its been a pleasure to watch the Spurs play ball this past decade. They play the right way. Old school way. Very rare for this new style of basketball. And its just awesome to watch. Unselfish basketball. Majority of the players have played for multiple teams and been around for a while. Theyve been overlooked and let go by other teams. They know how the NBA works. Knockaround guys. Teammates are more than willing to make the extra pass and everyone plays hard defense. EVERY GUY ON THE TEAM KNOWS THEIR ROLE AND DOES THEIR JOB.

Looking forward to the next 2 games at Miami