Maybe it's the Code of the Coaches.
In any event, the Spurs and Jazz are in a mutual admiration society. A few weeks ago, Spur coach Gregg Popovich said (for the millionth time) the Jazz play hard every single game and make it a war. He was a big admirer of former Jazz coach Jerry Sloan.
Now Popovich is the NBA's Coach of the Year for the second time and the Jazz are taking note. (Jazz coach Ty Corbin tied for sixth in voting.)
I was hoping Coach Corbin would get more credit for Coach of the Year, I really did, said Jazz assistant coach Scott Layden. I think he deserved that, but I was happy for Coach Popovich, because he is a coaches' coach. A guy who I'm sure at the end of a career, you're so proud and excited to have him as your coach.
Popovich was no doubt referencing future hall of famer Tim Duncan, whose career is winding down.
To give him (Popovich) Coach of the Year award, we almost slight him a little bit by doing that, Layden continued. It really should be the coach Red Auerbach/Coach Popovich Award. That should be instilled to other coaches. So he's someone special.
Layden also had high praise for Sloan.
Same with Coach Sloan, throw his name on that award, as well, Layden said. So Coach Popovich is a guy who's a brilliant basketball mind, but would never toot his own horn or talk about himself. It's all about the team. I read a little about it, and the fact that he receives the award but wants everybody in picture. So it's like a team award for him. Bravo for him, great guy.