Kawhi Leonard started his NBA career being drafted 15th in 2011 and immediately being traded to the San Antonio Spurs. He spent seven seasons with the Silver & Back earning his first NBA title as well as the Finals MVP honors in 2014, back-to-back DPOY awards in 2015 and 2016, as well as his first two All-Star nods.
Although his exit from San Antonio was met by animosity for many fans, his relationship with Coach Pop continued to evolve long after Leonard had left.
The other night after the Los Angeles Clippers were eliminated from the NBA postseason, Kawhi spoke briefly regarding hearing about Pop’s retirement.
Fans may recall that The Klaw has endured a barrage of boos every time he returns to San Antonio. On November 22, 2023, Pop had enough of the vitriol ad took the microphone from the in-arena announcer and addressed the crowd directly.
The moment a transitioned into a touchstone of fan’s emotional state toward Leonard. But more importantly, it was a stark example of Pop’s ability to speak his mind and to command attention in the moment.
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