DENVER — The gratitude Warriors coach Steve Kerr has toward Spurs coach Gregg Popovich extends toward different angles. Kerr valued his mentorship when he played for Popovich in two different stints (1998-2001, 2002-03), appreciated his support as a fellow coach and enjoys his friendship.
Apparently, Popovich may have had a negative influence on Kerr. He drew a technical for using vulgar language toward an official in the first quarter of Thursday’s win over San Antonio after becoming upset with a silent whistle when Stephen Curry drove toward the basket and absorbed contact. Popovich then received an ejection toward the end of the game after expressing displeasure over Warriors guard Patrick McCaw not being called for traveling.