Fans of the NBA were stunned and saddened at the devastating news that Erin Popovich, 67, wife of Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich, passed away today.
Lebron James found out about the news just after his team won their game 2 matchup against the Indiana Pacers, and his reaction pretty much summed up how the tragic news is weighing heavy on the hearts of the NBA family.
James held back tears as he said “I’m a huge Pop fan, I love Pop. That’s such a tragedy and my best wishes go out to Pop and his family. That’s devastating news. The NBA family we all stick together, I know we compete every night but when something like this happens it puts everything in perspective. I send my well wishes and my prayers up to the Heavens above, I know the Man above never makes a mistake even when you sometimes have to ask ‘why’ but that’s just terrible news.”
LeBron James after the game finding out about the horrible news of Erin Popovich's passing pic.twitter.com/2hz7z2ysWp
— ✶ Ⓜ️𝕒𝕣𝕔𝕦𝕤 ▶️ ✶ (@_MarcusD2_) April 19, 2018
Clearly the news is hitting hard around the league tonight. Gregg and Erin were married for over four decades.
Here’s the statement from the Spurs organization:
With deep regret the San Antonio Spurs announce that Erin Popovich, wife of Spurs Head Coach Gregg Popovich, passed away earlier today. Erin and Gregg were married for four decades and were blessed with two children and two grandchildren.
“We mourn the loss of Erin,” said Spurs General Manager RC Buford. “She was a strong, wonderful, kind, intelligent woman who provided love, support and humor to all of us.”
The organization asks media to respect the family’s privacy during this difficult time.
Prayers to the Popovich family, especially for Gregg Popovich, as surely it will be difficult navigating the days