When the Spurs hired Tim Duncan as assistant coach, Gregg Popovich said, “It is only fitting, that after I served loyally for 19 years as Tim Duncan’s assistant, that he returns the favor.”
Now, those jokes are ending.
Marc Stein of The New York Times:
The Spurs' Tim Duncan is stepping away from full-time coaching after spending last season on the bench on Gregg Popovich's staff, @NYTSports has learned
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) November 11, 2020
San Antonio's internal belief was always a one-year stint on the bench for Duncan, who is expected to return to his previous post-retirement role in which he made frequent appearances at the team's practice facility to provide various Spurs with player development assistance
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) November 11, 2020
Some former players – especially stars – realize coaching isn’t for them. It’s a time-consuming grind. Many players prefer to enjoy retirement.
The writing was on the wall with Duncan when he didn’t join the Spurs in the bubble, instead staying back with injured LaMarcus Aldridge. Perhaps, Duncan will find other ways to contribute to the organization that are less burdensome than assistant coaching.
He has other things on his agenda – like getting inducted into the Hall of Fame.
