David Stern Goes Off on Pop, Promises "Substantial Sanctions"

[timvp]

"I apologize to all NBA fans. This was an unacceptable decision by the San Antonio spurs and substantial sanctions will be forthcoming."





:wow:wow:wow

[DesignatedT]

:lmao

[ElNono]

hate to say it... but "told ya".... you don't fuck with Stern

[DPG21920]

Very interesting considering I quoted Adam Silver stating there was nothing against the rules with regards to the Spurs decision.

[weebo]

F Sterm

[bthewigwam]

fuck Stern. they should've looked at the proposed schedule before making it official.

[DesignatedT]

Lets wait to see what these sanctions are before you make that comment.

[Paranoid Pop]

Tbh I'm very surprised The big 3 let it happen.

[Josh810]

This is going to be very interesting.

[timvp]

My first thought: WTF?!?! Now coaches aren't allowed to coach their own teams as they see fit.

Sternie, it's your own damn fault for a schedule that made no sense. The Spurs play four games on the road in five days. The Heat sit at home until the Spurs arrive.

Fix yo' schedule-making software, bro.

[dmac]

David "Lame Duck" Stern? Screw him.

[PÒÓCH]

Substantial sanctions? Weren't they sanctioned enough by playing 4 games in 5 nights on the road?

[timvp]

Coaches can't coach? F stern, to be totally honest.

[DesignatedT]

Exactly. The NBA did this to themselves. The schedule is fucking retarded.

[playblair]

"I apologize to all NBA fans. This was an unacceptable decision by the San Antonio spurs and substantial sanctions will be forthcoming."





:wow:wow:wow

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/A86TskOCYAAOa9C.jpg

[DPG21920]

We will see if any sanctions actually come down. There is precedence here (Spurs and other teams doing this with no fine) and there is absolutely no rule against it. Any sanctions would have a very difficult time holding up in court. Wonder if it will come to that.

[Dex]

What sanction is he going to impose? "If players are healthy, they must play X amount of minutes?"

Suddenly, a lot of players might start coming down with the flu, or an old Spurs standby, "tendinosis." What is Stern going to do then, demand a doctor's note?

Fuck David Stern and his hype machine. Maybe he should worry more about the drunk monkeys he has working out the schedules, and less about decisions that any coach in the league has the right to make.

P.S. Props to Bruno, who was dead on with his prediction.

[Mel_13]

F Stern. You have a doubleheader on TNT every Thursday night that is supposed to be a showcase for the NBA. How hard would it be to ensure that the four teams that play on Thursday are all scheduled to be off on Wednesday? Stern should apologize for the amateurs he employs to create the league's schedule.

Edit: I see that while I was typing that timvp said all this already.

[LakerHater]

http://uppix.net/8/6/8/05dc8894e7c431b028a9e6884804a.jpg

[wut]

how is this ANY different than the numerous teams that sit their players before the playoffs? Like Kenny said, how is it any different than bringing the players and playing them 8 mins?

This is 100% about the money, and not the sport. He's pissed because this is a "big tv game" and now ratings / money / investors will be "cheated". Bunch of bullshit if you ask me. Thank you David Stern for making it clear that you don't give two shits about the sport of basketball, just the NBA as a business/entertainment medium.

[DPG21920]

Exactly. The NBA did this to themselves. The schedule is fucking retarded.

I guess the only argument is all teams will likely face a stretch like this, no?

[Libri]

https://encrypted-tbn3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSwhD80Ma2TGwfAOVTEC25UtcyNAtV5h 4i9GQfQZaI36WyZXGQw

[Quiet Strength]

lol wow that's bullcrap. The spurs had a bullshit schedule.

[Josh810]

My first thought: WTF?!?! Now coaches aren't allowed to coach their own teams as they see fit.

Sternie, it's your own damn fault for a schedule that made no sense. The Spurs play four games on the road in five days. The Heat sit at home until the Spurs arrive.

Fix yo' schedule-making software, bro.
I'm curious as to what Pop's counter-move to such a sanction would be. Do you think if Stern created some sort of rule against this kind of thing then Pop would just start playing the big three for 1 minute in rest games or something like that?

[DJ Mbenga]

he can probably fine them under basketball reasons. he's a lawyer, he knows his back is covered.

[DPG21920]

how is this ANY different than the numerous teams that sit their players before the playoffs? Like Kenny said, how is it any different than bringing the players and playing them 8 mins?

This is 100% about the money, and not the sport. He's pissed because this is a "big tv game" and now ratings / money / investors will be "cheated". Bunch of bullshit if you ask me. Thank you David Stern for making it clear that you don't give two shits about the sport of basketball, just the NBA as a business/entertainment medium.

Well, that is his job. Just like Pop has his.

[DJ Mbenga]

I'm curious as to what Pop's counter-move to such a sanction would be. Do you think if Stern created some sort of rule against this kind of thing then Pop would just start playing the big three for 1 minute in rest games or something like that?

thats actually the better way to handle it. like a nfl preseason game. play guys 1 series, first 5 minutes then goodbye

[Sisk]

Tbh I'm very surprised The big 3 let it happen.

Huh?

[ElNono]

http://cdn.memegenerator.net/instances/400x/31034618.jpg

[DesignatedT]

I guess the only argument is all teams will likely face a stretch like this, no?

Not really that upset about the stretch (Even though its pretty bad this month) but knowing its a TNT thursday game and then giving Miami 4 full days of rest on top of it. It's like they were begging Pop to do this. You could point out this game in the beginning of the year and predict this was going to happen.

[Hoops Czar]

Exactly. The NBA did this to themselves. The schedule is fucking retarded.


Spurs SOS .479 (19th)

Miami SOS .587 (2nd)

Yeah, brutal.

[Boomersgold]

Fuck off, Stern.

[ace3g]

http://uppix.net/8/6/8/05dc8894e7c431b028a9e6884804a.jpg


https://pbs.twimg.com/media/A86TskOCYAAOa9C.jpg

Thank you for those, will be either a sig and or avatar for me in a bit, lol

[ElNono]

Pop can always argue that the "product" turns to shit with such a schedule... but that's something you discuss with ownership and bring to the table with the other owners first...

[wut]

My first thought: WTF?!?! Now coaches aren't allowed to coach their own teams as they see fit.

Sternie, it's your own damn fault for a schedule that made no sense. The Spurs play four games on the road in five days. The Heat sit at home until the Spurs arrive.

Fix yo' schedule-making software, bro.
Exactly....they knew exactly what they were doing when they created this schedule, and it's why Pop didn't even bring his players and why Stern is basically saying 'you'll take it and you'll like it.' ....screw Stern, guy has made a mockery of a sport.

[timvp]

Yeah, the "substantial sanctions" better be a bluff. You can't invent rules as you go. Pop was well within the rules; it wasn't even a grey area.

Stern is trying to flex his muscle but on what grounds? Is he going to go around checking to make sure that every player who doesn't play is actually injured?

[Fenix]

lost of first round picks for the rest of eternity?

[Mel_13]

There used to be an injured list where teams would have justify each player's absence. That led to lots of cases of "back spasms" and "flu-like symptoms". Now they have an inactive list that leaves these decisions to the discretion of the coach.

The Spurs broke no rules, but dictators don't need to follow their own laws.

[DesignatedT]

Spurs SOS .479 (19th)

Miami SOS .587 (2nd)

Yeah, brutal.


Being on the road 19? days out of the month is what is crazy. Not the opponents we've played. SOS doesn't factor that in.

[DPG21920]

Yeah, the "substantial sanctions" better be a bluff. You can't invent rules as you go. Pop was well within the rules; it wasn't even a grey area.

Stern is trying to flex his muscle but on what grounds? Is he going to go around checking to make sure that every player who doesn't play is actually injured?

Exactly - but we dont know how far he will go to make a point. It potentially could get messy and drawn out, but I doubt it.

[ElNono]

Luckily, the Spurs have Matt Bonner who can get on the case with the union immediately if there are any sanctions, tbh

[Mugen]

If the Spurs end up winning this game....:lmao

[ElNono]

You could make the argument the league could sanction the players for being unwilling to play... even if it was Pop's decision...

[Dex]

You could make the argument the league could sanction the players for being unwilling to play... even if it was Pop's decision...

I would love to see them come up with some kind of sanction that could truly be enforced.

Fuck David Stern.

[Libri]

Yeah, the "substantial sanctions" better be a bluff. You can't invent rules as you go. Pop was well within the rules; it wasn't even a grey area.

Stern is trying to flex his muscle but on what grounds? Is he going to go around checking to make sure that every player who doesn't play is actually injured?

Is there a rule against purposely throwing a game?

[Paranoid Pop]

If Stern ask the organisation to refund the tickets I wouldn't mind tbh because you know some Spurs fans spent big money to attend.

[timvp]

Tbh, as long as Stern doesn't mess with trying to take around draft picks or anything like that, he can go to town fining the Spurs some token amount.

[LakerHater]

"Substantial sanctions forthcoming"

...WTF?? So Spurs would get rewarded more rest?

[Capt Bringdown]

Doesn't Stern have a point? Fans need to have a reasonable expectation that there's going to be a good-faith effort by both teams to compete to the best of their ability.

[SanDiegoSpursFan]

hope its nothing big

[DPG21920]

I think the Spurs would fight any sanction with ferocity.

[baseline bum]

This is 100% about the money, and not the sport.

:lol These purity of sport arguments always make me laugh. It's a business; of course it's 100% about the money.

[Dex]

Tbh, as long as Stern doesn't mess with trying to take around draft picks or anything like that, he can go to town fining the Spurs some token amount.

If Stern fucks with draft picks / a teams future over one game, he's more maniacal than even I could ever believe.

[baseline bum]

Tbh, as long as Stern doesn't mess with trying to take around draft picks or anything like that, he can go to town fining the Spurs some token amount.

Holt's not a billionaire like Cuban though.

[therealtruth]

Not really that upset about the stretch (Even though its pretty bad this month) but knowing its a TNT thursday game and then giving Miami 4 full days of rest on top of it. It's like they were begging Pop to do this. You could point out this game in the beginning of the year and predict this was going to happen.

Pop could have rested them any of the other games if even just for the reason to not piss of Stern. You think Stern would be saying that if the Wizards game? I like this quote from cbsnews "There's not a small amount of irony in the fact that a team whose fans complain never gets the national attention they deserve is deliberately sabotaging a national television appearance. Maybe we should just ignore them completely, since they clearly don't care at all as an organization? (It's such a shame because they're so good.)"

[timvp]

It'd be funny if Stern suspends Pop for a game :lmao

[Cry Havoc]

Seriously the worst head of any major sport in history. What a fucking douchebag.

[therealtruth]

Tbh, as long as Stern doesn't mess with trying to take around draft picks or anything like that, he can go to town fining the Spurs some token amount.

It's not like the Spurs have really done anything good with draft picks lately. It probably wouldn't make a difference.

[LakerHater]

"I support Coach Popovich" - Charles Barkley

[Mal]

It'd be funny if Stern suspends Pop for a game :lmao

Oh yeah, and Budenholzer with huuuuge headphone at bench this game

[024]

spurs will never get a call to go their way again.

[timvp]

It's not like the Spurs have really done anything good with draft picks lately. It probably wouldn't make a difference.

[Captivus]

hes not throwing the game, he is resting the starters after a lot of games and travel. Thats what it is. No other reason. At least that should be his argument.

[Das Texan]

I hope Pop has a golden response.

[Mel_13]

It's not like the Spurs have really done anything good with draft picks lately. It probably wouldn't make a difference.

[Mal]

I hope Pop has a golden response.

Hey Pop how would you comment NBA commisioner reaction to resting big 3?
- He`s David Stern

[phxspurfan]

Strip our asterisk championship!

[LakerHater]

But but, the Spurs are boring, So why the fuss???

[timvp]

Don't put the Spurs on national television. Problem solved.

[Cry Havoc]

It'd be funny if Stern suspends Pop for a game :lmao

Would motivate the rest of the team, to be honest. This is a no-win for Stern. He's a moron for picking this fight.

[dunkman]

The TV contracts pay for the salaries, also the spectators in the Heat arena deserve better. While I agree the NBA made a ridiculous job making the schedule, Pop should show respect for the people thay pay the bills.

[Andthentherewas21]

It's not like the Spurs have really done anything good with draft picks lately. It probably wouldn't make a difference.

Are you joking? Selling Richard Jefferson's ass to GS for SJax doesn't happen without a 1st rounder. Its not always who you draft, but what you can do with the pick.

[Cry Havoc]

Next game where there are 4 games in 5 nights: Pop plays his starters for 5 minutes each. :lmao

[Mugen]

lol fuck off Stu Jackson

[sexinthatsx]

I am seriously hoping that the Spurs end up winning against the Heat, it would make a mockery of the Heat, David Stern, and his dumbass comment.

[timvp]

Stu Jackson via Craig Sager says that the league will discuss it further tomorrow. I'm interested to see what comes of this :lol

[Captivus]

Surprised to hear Miller saying he understands what Pop did.
I mean, he works for the NBA...be careful Reggie

[MannyIsGod]

Is there a rule against purposely throwing a game?

The game is not being thrown.

[Cry Havoc]

Stu Jackson via Craig Sager says that the league will discuss it further tomorrow. I'm interested to see what comes of this :lol

I'm actually hoping for Pop to get suspended. Would galvanize our team.

I don't want to think about what kind of officiating we're going to get in the playoffs as a result of this, though.

[LakerHater]

Asked Stu Jackson if league would also look at league scheduling that would pit team on 4 games/5 days against one on 2/8: No comment.

Sager apparently asked about the rough schedule and the league said: "No comment"

[Baseline]

Stern's sanctions against the Spurs will be a trade where the Lakers get Josh Smith and Jeff Teague from Atlanta for Metta, Steve Blake, and a pick.

[Reck]

Stu Jackson via Craig Sager says that the league will discuss it further tomorrow. I'm interested to see what comes of this :lol

I cant see anything but a warning out of this. Other than telling them to quit resting starters so much I dont see any type of fine out of this.

That would be extreme.

[MannyIsGod]

Doesn't Stern have a point? Fans need to have a reasonable expectation that there's going to be a good-faith effort by both teams to compete to the best of their ability.

The Spurs are competing to the best of their ability. The players on the court aren't not trying.

[MannyIsGod]

It's not like the Spurs have really done anything good with draft picks lately. It probably wouldn't make a difference.

Yeah Kawai just sucks.

You're a fucking moron. Stop posting. Forever.

[mercos]

Meh. Pop pretty much got his FU in by turning a nationally televised game to crap. The message is loud and clear: don't set up the Spurs to fail in order to showcase another team.

[Das Texan]

Stu Jackson's No comment on the scheduling issue was entertaining also.

[therealtruth]

Are you joking? Selling Richard Jefferson's ass to GS for SJax doesn't happen without a 1st rounder. Its not always who you draft, but what you can do with the pick.

RJ was a mistake that should never have happened.

[MannyIsGod]

Stern is full of shit. He's got no leverage here. I'm sure what Pop does pisses him off but so fucking what?

I haven't even been in the Spurs forum this season. This sure pulled me in though, haha.

[Mal]

Where were sanctions when Miami was tanking so badly couple years ago ?

[timvp]

Anything more than a $25K fine and the Spurs should take this to court. Penalized for doing nothing wrong? Yeah, no.

[capek]

:lol These purity of sport arguments always make me laugh. It's a business; of course it's 100% about the money.

Staples is a business. General Electric is a business. But you don't see people wearing Staples merch, or paying big money to watch a GE employee assemble a washing machine, do you. So obviously there's SOME difference smart guy.

People who are unintentionally obtuse make me laugh. :rolleyes


Anyways, here's a hypothetical I'd love to see Pop try out, in the case where this isn't just BS and Stern actually does something to stop teams from doing this. So, the next time the Spurs are in a situation where Pop would like to hold out players or send them home for reasons of rest, instead he brings them along, starts them like normal, and then the first time the Spurs get possession of the ball he calls a time out, subs them out, and they don't play again that game. That'd be a nice fuck you to Stern, play them for the opening tip and then sit them the rest of the game.

Anyways, fuck Stern. So tired of his bullshit.

[Cry Havoc]

RJ was a mistake that should never have happened.

What does that have anything to do with the Spurs landing SJax?

[MannyIsGod]

RJ was a mistake that should never have happened.

So was your conception.

[Libri]

The game is not being thrown.

Of course not. But what does Stern think?

[polandprzem]

Pop threw players and fans all over the world under the bus.

It's ugly.

Stern is right.
Some teams have tough schedules but give players rest and not compete?
IMO it's not sportsmanship

[timvp]

Stern is full of shit. He's got no leverage here. I'm sure what Pop does pisses him off but so fucking what?

I haven't even been in the Spurs forum this season. This sure pulled me in though, haha.

What's ironic is that Pop's move will get this game talked about 10 times as much as if both teams actually played with their full compliment of players.

[Capt Bringdown]

IMO this just sends a self-fulfilling message to the players that they're soft. For a team that become known for their playoff meltdowns in recent years, this is the wrong message to send.
Sports is about overcoming adversity. You don't get to choose your opponent or the conditions of the competition.

[LakerHater]

Pop threw players and fans all over the world under the bus.

It's ugly.

Stern is right.
Some teams have tough schedules but give players rest and not compete?
IMO it's not sportsmanship

What happens if the Spurs Win!?

[MannyIsGod]

The Spurs are fucking tied. They're going to compete all night. I'm gonna love Stern to spin this shit if the Spurs compete.

[therealtruth]

Yeah Kawai just sucks.

You're a fucking moron. Stop posting. Forever.

Kawai came in a trade for George Hill.

[Capt Bringdown]

IMO this just sends a self-fulfilling message to the players that they're soft. For a team that become known for their playoff meltdowns in recent years, this is the wrong message to send.
Sports is about overcoming adversity. You don't get to choose your opponent or the conditions of the competition.

[HI-FI]

Love that Pop stuck it to him, but as I said in the other thread, Stern will punish us in more ways than one. He's a piece of shit. I wish we could fine the league or take back money for his crooked refs or favoritism towards big markets.

[Bartleby]

Pop could have rested them any of the other games if even just for the reason to not piss of Stern.

That's a great reason. I'm sure Pop spends lots of time worrying about pissing off Stern.

[MannyIsGod]

Of course not. But what does Stern think?

Well, Stern is just pissed that the stars for the Spurs (that he doesn't even promote) aren't on the court. I get he's annoyed but that doesn't mean he can just fine or punish teams.

[wut]

:lol These purity of sport arguments always make me laugh. It's a business; of course it's 100% about the money.

Where do you draw the line of sport and entertainment? If you're going to fine a club for not playing their players when rest is needed, why stop there? Fine clubs where the team scores less than 60 pts, because obviously they didn't give the fans a good enough show. Seriously, where would you draw the line? Now let's start having NBA sanctioned doctors give gametime physicals. I'm not arguing that the league can't profit off of sport, I'm arguing that the commissioner is making up rules based purely on money and not for the protection of its players.

[pgardn]

82 games is ridiculous. There are too many teams that make the playoffs. You want coaches to play full strength? Then make the regular season games mean more. The NBA made their own bed. Tough luck.

[MannyIsGod]

IMO this just sends a self-fulfilling message to the players that they're soft. For a team that become known for their playoff meltdowns in recent years, this is the wrong message to send.
Sports is about overcoming adversity. You don't get to choose your opponent or the conditions of the competition.

Yeah, Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, and ESPECIALLY Manu are all mentally soft and don't believe they can win championships because they sat out a game in November.

WHY ARE SOME OF YOU SO STUPID?!?!?!?!?!

[Creation88]

God i hope we win this game just to shove it up Stern's ass even more. FUCK STERN.

[polandprzem]

What happens if the Spurs Win!?

Then Ster should take some actions against Heat for the lack of desire to win






:fight

[Trainwreck2100]

Kawai came in a trade for George Hill.

the guy they drafted? that guy?

[ElNono]

Pop should double-down and sit 8 players for the next nationally televised game, along with wearing a F Stern shirt

[timvp]

:cry IMO it's not sportsmanship :cry

Tissue?

[slick'81]

pops gonna get spanked by daddy stern

[Dingle Barry]

LOL Stern sounds like an emotional dumb bitch with that quote. What kind of kangaroo court bullshit is this? I'm confused how you can be sanctioned without actually breaking a rule. I'm also confused why he is just now pretending such a rule exists. Pop has done this many times before without any league action. That's estoppel brotha. Stern seems like a shitty lawyer.

[capek]

What's ironic is that Pop's move will get this game talked about 10 times as much as if both teams actually played with their full compliment of players.

So maybe Stern was just doing his part to up the hype by playing the "Big Bad Commissioner" card ala Vince McMahon? It builds into his clear intentions over the last decade to turn the NBA into a WWE clone imo

[MannyIsGod]

TBH, these games are some of my favorites because its fun to watch the bench guys compete.

[wut]

Staples is a business. General Electric is a business. But you don't see people wearing Staples merch, or paying big money to watch a GE employee assemble a washing machine, do you. So obviously there's SOME difference smart guy.

People who are unintentionally obtuse make me laugh. :rolleyes


Anyways, here's a hypothetical I'd love to see Pop try out, in the case where this isn't just BS and Stern actually does something to stop teams from doing this. So, the next time the Spurs are in a situation where Pop would like to hold out players or send them home for reasons of rest, instead he brings them along, starts them like normal, and then the first time the Spurs get possession of the ball he calls a time out, subs them out, and they don't play again that game. That'd be a nice fuck you to Stern, play them for the opening tip and then sit them the rest of the game.

Anyways, fuck Stern. So tired of his bullshit.
Thing is, I have a sinking suspicion that this is not the first time Stern has been upset with Pop about these types of situations. Last season the media unfairly made a HUGE deal out of Pop sitting players towards the end of the season....something a lot of teams were doing, and something Pop has always done. There's nothing unfair about resting players when you earn that right by winning enough to make the playoffs....same goes for resting your players after a long away trip, Spurs won enough games on this road trip and Pop decided to take the risk of a loss vs giving his stars rest.

[Bruno]

Stern not liking that move is logical but threatening of "substantial sanctions" is too much.

The primary reason why Pop send back some of his players at home was to keep them healthy over the course of the season. If the league want to appear as an identity that isn't only money driven but too as an identity that cares about the well being of its players, they can't sanctioned hard Pop for that.

[ace3g]

Adrian Wojnarowski ‏@WojYahooNBA (https://twitter.com/WojYahooNBA) Before dispatching statement tonight, NBA had no communication w/ Spurs about Pop's decision to send players home, league source tells Y!

[ploto]

Doesn't Stern have a point? Fans need to have a reasonable expectation that there's going to be a good-faith effort by both teams to compete to the best of their ability.

Amen.

[baseline bum]

Staples is a business. General Electric is a business. But you don't see people wearing Staples merch, or paying big money to watch a GE employee assemble a washing machine, do you. So obviously there's SOME difference smart guy.

People who are unintentionally obtuse make me laugh. :rolleyes


Anyways, here's a hypothetical I'd love to see Pop try out, in the case where this isn't just BS and Stern actually does something to stop teams from doing this. So, the next time the Spurs are in a situation where Pop would like to hold out players or send them home for reasons of rest, instead he brings them along, starts them like normal, and then the first time the Spurs get possession of the ball he calls a time out, subs them out, and they don't play again that game. That'd be a nice fuck you to Stern, play them for the opening tip and then sit them the rest of the game.

Anyways, fuck Stern. So tired of his bullshit.

:lol

Yeah, people pay big money to watch the Spurs rest all their good players. I can't belive anyone is surprised to hear Sterm talking shit about resting players on a national TV game. He has been bitching and making empty threats about teams resting stars for more than a decade.

[TimmehC]

Isn't Holt basically Stern's boss?

Stern: "I need you to control your coach a little bit better."
Holt: "Fuck you, Dave."

[spurraider21]

if Stern really wants to punish the spurs he should mandate Bonner to play 25 minutes per game

[DAF86]

What sanction? He can't do shit. At least legaly.

[LakerHater]

WTF, You pays to watch the Wizards play... Stern should look into that!

[elemento]

sportsmanship ? GTFOH

If anything, both teams gotta have the SAME conditions. If SA had 4 days OFF like Miami and not 4 games in 5 nights, we would be watching Duncan, Parker, Manu and Green now. Pop is the coach. He decides who plays and who doesn't. Pop only had to do it in the 1st place because of this moronic NBA calendar.

SA did the same thing last season against Utah and Portland and Stern did not say a word about it. But because it's on national TV against Miami, Stern wants to make a fuss about it.

GS playing 5 rookies last season in order to guarantee a lottery pick was 100x worse and we did not hear a word about it.

Seriously, Stern is freaking pathetic.

[txstr1986]

It's not like the Spurs have really done anything good with draft picks lately. It probably wouldn't make a difference.

Yeah, Kawhi was a horrible pick...

[Hoops Czar]

sportsmanship ? GTFOH

If anything, both teams gotta have the SAME conditions. If SA had 4 days OFF like Miami and not 4 games in 5 nights, we would be watching Duncan, Parker, Manu and Green now. Pop is the coach. He decides who plays and who doesn't. Pop only had to do it in the 1st place because of this moronic NBA calendar.

SA did the same thing last season against Utah and Portland and Stern did not say a word about it. But because it's on national TV against Miami, Stern wants to make a fuss about it.

GS playing 5 rookies last season in order to guarantee a lottery pick was 100x worse and we did not hear a word about it.

Seriously, Stern is freaking pathetic.
Yes he did. He let it slide because of the compressed schedule.

[wut]

Stern truly believes the league is about stars, it's what his ego has led him to believe, it's what he sells. BUT, despite his threat to fine the Spurs BEFORE the game even happens, the Spurs without their stars are playing a competitive game (so far). So if this is not about letting the fans see a competitive game, then why the fine? Clearly due to the fact that he believes stars sell tickets, stars get ratings....not good basketball teams. The sad truth.

[ajh18]

I'm sorry, but this argument can just as easily be used the other way. Should fans in attendance of a game be expecting the best product possible, or fans of the NBA product as a whole? Because if I'm a coach, and I think that playing my best players in a single game puts my team's overall performance for the season at risk (be it from injury or exhaustion), then you can say that resting those players is actually better for the overall product of NBA basketball.

I don't necessarily think either of those arguments holds more weight than the other. But sanctions of ANY kind in this situation is a really, really bad precedent and completely inconsistent with previous NBA precedents and communications.

[benefactor]

Yeah, Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, and ESPECIALLY Manu are all mentally soft and don't believe they can win championships because they sat out a game in November.

WHY ARE SOME OF YOU SO STUPID?!?!?!?!?!
It's epidemic up here now tbh. I don't really put much effort into my Spurs posts now because of it. It's mostly brain damaged takes or people that write long posts trying to sound smart but most of it is shit and you are left wondering why to took the time to read it.

[Baseline]

Actually, Stern truly believes the league is about him.

[objective]

Stern's always let it slide.

Pop did the same thing with Duncan and Manu on a home-away B2B back in 2005 on March 9th.

Sarver cried to the media about it and called the Spurs chicken.

And the Spurs have done it numerous times since then.

[LakerHater]

....Stern fined Riley $25K in '90 for resting Magic & Worthy.

[FromWayDowntown]

Stern's putting himself on a pretty slippery slope here. He's done absolutely nothing to stop teams from tanking for draft picks. Teams (not just the Spurs) have chosen to sit players at various points in time. And, as many others have said, coaches have to have substantial discretion to determine who plays for their teams and how much those guys play.

Add to that the fact that he has no collectively bargained (or bylaw) authority to legislate how teams utilize their players and his threat here is going to have to be extremely well thought out if brought to execution.

Otherwise, he's either going to have a one-off rule tailored specifically to resolve his hissy fit about his prized team not being fully challenged on national TV or he's going to have a rule of universal enforcement that is basically going to make the commissioner's office an arbiter of lineup decisions.

[FromWayDowntown]

If this was really a problem the league was concerned about, it had all summer to craft a rule to eliminate the problem.

[polandprzem]

Tissue?

I'm not crying about it.

Just want the players to compete. Back in the day there was no whining about being tired. Now all of sudden in the deepest team /considering playing time/ players are tired.

[KenziE]

I'm actually hoping for Pop to get suspended. Would galvanize our team.

I don't want to think about what kind of officiating we're going to get in the playoffs as a result of this, though.

thats what im thinking no championship again for the Spurs 😥

[Hoops Czar]

Stern is full of shit. He's got no leverage here. I'm sure what Pop does pisses him off but so fucking what?

I haven't even been in the Spurs forum this season. This sure pulled me in though, haha.

Is what a selfish Spurs fan would say when it affects his team. But the hell to all those Miami fans who shelled out good money to attend the game. And while they thought they were in store for a possible NBA finals preview, instead, were treated to a glorified exhibition game. Yeah, Stern is the "only" one pissed off here.

[Walton Buys Off Me]

David Stern can eat a dick, plain and simple.

If this game was so 'important' to Stern's game rigging, individual-focused, style over substance machine, then his schedule makers wouldn't have made this the last stop on San Antonio's road trip, their fourth game in five nights and facing a Heat team that hadn't played since Saturday.

Stern is just upset that he got caught with the 'green mist' on his face this time.

Worry more about fixing games, promoting mediocre talent and the fact that you've turned this 'sport' into a combination of the WWE and Jersey Shore you senile bastard.

[LakerHater]

"The strategic resting of particular players on particular nights is within the discretion of the teams." - future NBA commish Adam Silver

[FromWayDowntown]

By the way, big props to Craig Sager for putting the scheduling aspect of this to Stu Jackson.

[polandprzem]

sportsmanship ? GTFOH

If anything, both teams gotta have the SAME conditions. If SA had 4 days OFF like Miami and not 4 games in 5 nights, we would be watching Duncan, Parker, Manu and Green now. Pop is the coach. He decides who plays and who doesn't. Pop only had to do it in the 1st place because of this moronic NBA calendar.

SA did the same thing last season against Utah and Portland and Stern did not say a word about it. But because it's on national TV against Miami, Stern wants to make a fuss about it.

GS playing 5 rookies last season in order to guarantee a lottery pick was 100x worse and we did not hear a word about it.

Seriously, Stern is freaking pathetic.
yea it;s so easy to whine about schedule

[Brazil]

:lol going to be fun

[Kori Ellis]

It will be interesting to see what comes of it.

My guess is a suspension for Pop, that will then get reversed.

Side note: Red Rocket with 8 rebounds in a half? Say what?

[Mr. Body]

Fascinating move by Pop. Clearly sending a message about the ridiculous scheduling. Obviously that is secondary to actually resting his guys, but it's there.

Stern, as a big-shot lawyer type, has got to know better. I'm sure he'll try to push his power in an extra-legal way. But he did say 'sanctions' instead of 'punishment'; I'm sure they'll try to change the rules about how and when players can be sat out of games. But I'm not sure that will fly with the owners (because they want to be able to tank, etc.). Will be interesting.

[Brazil]

Poland is ready for a new meltdown tbh :lmao

[Hoops Czar]

I'm actually hoping for Pop to get suspended. Would galvanize our team.

I don't want to think about what kind of officiating we're going to get in the playoffs as a result of this, though.

Justice would be suspending those four for the Memphis game. They'll be well rested for Dec. 5th. Pop should be able to live with that.

[timvp]

I'm not crying about it.

Just want the players to compete. Back in the day there was no whining about being tired. Now all of sudden in the deepest team /considering playing time/ players are tired.

Coaches have been strategically holding players out since the invention of basketball.

[FromWayDowntown]

Is what a selfish Spurs fan would say when it affects his team. But the hell to all those Miami fans who shelled out good money to attend the game. And while they thought they were in store for a possible NBA finals preview, instead, were treated to a glorified exhibition game. Yeah, Stern is the "only" one pissed off here.

I've had Spurs season tickets for 13 years now and have bought tickets to any number of professional sporting events over the course of my lifetime. Every single time I buy a ticket, I do it with the knowledge that I'm not guaranteed to see the front line players for any team, for any number of reasons. The tickets themselves say that there's no guarantee of particular performers. If you buy tickets expecting that you're absolutely guaranteed to get to see the best players, you're foolish.

If you think that the need to placate fans by requiring teams to play their best players can be legislated from the league office, you're fighting against decades of precedent and a mountain of common sense.

[objective]

Coaches have been strategically holding players out since the invention of basketball.

exactly. And at risk of repeating myself, Pop's been doing it since 2005 at least when Sarver cried about it and Stern did nothing.

[urunobili]

yet he's been allowing Joey Crawford to call Spurs important playoff games since 2008.... :rolleyes

[polandprzem]

Coaches have been strategically holding players out since the invention of basketball.

4 best players got day off

That's a huge holding down in a team that every player is hold down every game.

[FromWayDowntown]

Justice would be suspending those four for the Memphis game. They'll be well rested for Dec. 5th. Pop should be able to live with that.

:lol

Suggesting there's "injustice" here.

[Captivus]

everybody talks about the Spurs age, all the time. This is not a surprise. I dont want to risk an injurie, specially against the best team in the league.
Nobody is happy! STERN!

[Cherry]

My first thought: WTF?!?! Now coaches aren't allowed to coach their own teams as they see fit.

Sternie, it's your own damn fault for a schedule that made no sense. The Spurs play four games on the road in five days. The Heat sit at home until the Spurs arrive.

Fix yo' schedule-making software, bro.


THIS.

[benefactor]

Justice would be suspending those four for the Memphis game. They'll be well rested for Dec. 5th. Pop should be able to live with that.
And what rules did they break to warrant a suspension? At least attempt to think.

[Uriel]

Apparently, there is a precedent for this. David Stern once fined Pat Riley $25K for resting Johnson and Worthy.

http://www.nytimes.com/1990/04/25/sports/sports-people-pro-basketball-resting-two-players-brings-lakers-a-fine.html

[MannyIsGod]

Is what a selfish Spurs fan would say when it affects his team. But the hell to all those Miami fans who shelled out good money to attend the game. And while they thought they were in store for a possible NBA finals preview, instead, were treated to a glorified exhibition game. Yeah, Stern is the "only" one pissed off here.

lol this is the weakest trolling you've ever done and you've done some seriously weak trolling in the past.

[Kidd K]

Fuck Stern. 4th road game in 5 nights vs first game in FIVE nights at home? GTFO. I've never seen that before in my life. No surprise here that Pop rested guys. I called it several days ago after I looked at the schedules for both teams.

He's obviously pissed because he expected Miami to beat the full Spurs roster, now their win pretty much won't mean shit. Can't wait 'til Stern retires tbh. Good riddance.

[Kori Ellis]

When it comes down to it, I don't think Stern can do anything except try change the rules for the future.

Right now, a coach can sit a player for any reason -- he was late for practice, conduct detrimental to the team, bad matchups, stayed up too late, he's been sucking lately, worried he might get re-injured, he's tired, whatever.
So if Stern doesn't want to let the coaches sit players, then he'll have to change the rule ... which would be impossible. What would he want "a doctor's note" for everyone who gets a DNP-CD?

[FromWayDowntown]

Apparently, there is a precedent for this. David Stern once fined Pat Riley $25K for resting Johnson and Worthy.

http://www.nytimes.com/1990/04/25/sports/sports-people-pro-basketball-resting-two-players-brings-lakers-a-fine.html

Precedent for a fine -- a relatively small one.

Unless Stern is speaking purely out of anger and will be cooler about it tomorrow, there's absolutely no precedent for the imposition of substantial sanctions, particularly when no express rule has been broken.

[FromWayDowntown]

It's fascinating that the talking heads -- former players, national basketball writers, TNT's game crew and studio crew, ESPN's Heat jocksniffers -- almost unanimously think that Stern's way out of line here and are either flat out saying his fit is unwarranted or openly mocking his threats.

[polandprzem]

When it comes down to it, I don't think Stern can do anything except try change the rules for the future.

Right now, a coach can sit a player for any reason -- he was late for practice, conduct detrimental to the team, bad matchups, stayed up too late, he's been sucking lately, worried he might get re-injured, he's tired, whatever.
So if Stern doesn't want to let the coaches sit players, then he'll have to change the rule ... which would be impossible. What would he want "a doctor's note" for everyone who gets a DNP-CD?
+1

Everybody does his job the best he can.P

Pop did what he though is the best for the team in short and long run.


But how it's interesting now where medicine is better and nutritions are better that players are more tired then those from the past.
The game is more demanding of course but come on.

[admiralfats]

What's ironic is that Pop's move will get this game talked about 10 times as much as if both teams actually played with their full compliment of players.

yeah the spurs get no national attention until they piss off the commish. amazing.

it's just about the keeping up of appearances. had the big 3 been at the game, but not played, it somehow would have been different? I think stern just thinks this makes him look foolish and won't stand for that. it's like the flopping rule. it's all about the integrity of officials and how flopping makes them look stupid. this makes the league and its sponsors look silly. sort of.

hope the spurs win and we get fined for winning with our bench.

[Russ]

Stern should thank Pop.

Pop just took the NFL Thursday Night Game and the Big East Championship Game off the radar.

This topic will dominate until Saturday.

[polandprzem]

IMO a 82 game season should be bit longer for teams to have opportunity to practice and be fresher.

[Brazil]

+1

Everybody does his job the best he can.P

Pop did what he though is the best for the team in short and long run.


But how it's interesting now where medicine is better and nutritions are better that players are more tired then those from the past.
The game is more demanding of course but come on.

Problem is that spurs are not using enough dope !

[Kori Ellis]

...

hope the spurs win and we get fined for winning with our bench.

Hopefully. Stern would look like even a bigger idiot.

[polandprzem]

Interesting inside info you have there Brazil

[Poolboy5623]

Surprised to hear Miller saying he understands what Pop did.
I mean, he works for the NBA...be careful Reggie

Doesn't Reggie work for tnt? He can't still be getting paid by the nba? For what?

[AusSpur]

Is Pop going to get in trouble for 'basketball reasons'?

[PM5K]

It sucks when you buy tickets to see a good match up, and wind up watching a preseason type match up.

BUT Miami has had four days off, been in Miami the past nine days, while the Spurs have had five games in seven nights, and haven't been in San Antonio in ten days.

It's absurd to think the Spurs would be punished for resting players that are 35, and 36 (Manu and Tim), and even looking at Parker who is only thirty but has been in the league for going on 12 seasons, and is just a few games shy of having played 1,000 total games in his career.

Next time Pop can just put them in the starting lineup, play them one minute, call a timeout, and take them all out. I bet he'd do that too, that's why you gotta love him.

[Brazil]

Interesting inside info you have there Brazil (http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/member.php?u=14466)

I'm an insider tbh

[timvp]

I was about to make a joke about Stern's punishment being the reversal of the Stephen Jackson trade for "basketball reasons" ...... but that's not even funny.

[Mr. Body]

Apparently, there is a precedent for this. David Stern once fined Pat Riley $25K for resting Johnson and Worthy.

http://www.nytimes.com/1990/04/25/sports/sports-people-pro-basketball-resting-two-players-brings-lakers-a-fine.html

There is far, far, far, far, far, far more precedent since then that sitting players for various reasons are accepted by the league leadership. Hell, even Adam Silver was saying last April there was absolutely no reason to be upset Pop was doing this.

[koriwhat]

Fuck that faggot nazi adolph stern!

[Trainwreck2100]

Apparently, there is a precedent for this. David Stern once fined Pat Riley $25K for resting Johnson and Worthy.

http://www.nytimes.com/1990/04/25/sports/sports-people-pro-basketball-resting-two-players-brings-lakers-a-fine.html


Two CBAs ago that became obsolete with the introduction of inactive players

[spurspokesman]

I can dig it.

[FromWayDowntown]

Hollinger reminds that Miami sat everyone last year in a nationally televised game at Boston without Stern blowing a gasket.

Apparently, the major concern is the great hoops fans of Miami (as opposed to the Johnny Come Lately's in Boston).

[Hoops Czar]

I've had Spurs season tickets for 13 years now and have bought tickets to any number of professional sporting events over the course of my lifetime. Every single time I buy a ticket, I do it with the knowledge that I'm not guaranteed to see the front line players for any team, for any number of reasons. The tickets themselves say that there's no guarantee of particular performers. If you buy tickets expecting that you're absolutely guaranteed to get to see the best players, you're foolish.

If you think that the need to placate fans by requiring teams to play their best players can be legislated from the league office, you're fighting against decades of precedent and a mountain of common sense.

If I buy tickets to see Cats the musical, I expect to see a bunch of professionals putting on the performance that will be remembered. If it came to light that an hour prior to the performance, the regulars were given the day off to rest and instead, were replaced by a bunch of second graders, I'd be pissed. I get your point. But, it's still a form of entertainment. If it wasn't for the fans, Pop wouldn't have a job, and the players wouldn't be making the kind of money they're making. If players are injured, then I don't have a problem with it. But if players are healthy, I expect some sort of professionalism on the part of the players and coaches that I'm going to get my money's worth.

Why not rest one member of the big three in each of the last three games? Why rest them in a nationally televised game against an elite team?

[Poolboy5623]

I've had Spurs season tickets for 13 years now and have bought tickets to any number of professional sporting events over the course of my lifetime. Every single time I buy a ticket, I do it with the knowledge that I'm not guaranteed to see the front line players for any team, for any number of reasons. The tickets themselves say that there's no guarantee of particular performers. If you buy tickets expecting that you're absolutely guaranteed to get to see the best players, you're foolish.

If you think that the need to placate fans by requiring teams to play their best players can be legislated from the league office, you're fighting against decades of precedent and a mountain of common sense.

BIngo. I live in Wisconsin and it USE to be an annual thing to watch the Spurs play the bucks...I always pay extra to either sit courtside or right behind the bench. The last couple years though I've passed, due to the fact that I may not get to see all of the players. Age and injuries happen...pop sitting any or all of the big 3, happens. I also actually prefer just staying home nowadays anyway...but eventually I'll go to another game. With that said, I'm realistic..I'll never buy a ticket to a sporting event thinking it's a guarantee that all the stars will be playing.

[dbreiden83080]

"I apologize to all NBA fans for trying to lowball the Spurs organization so the Heat could look good against them"

[TampaDude]

Fuck Stern.

That is all.

[Mr. Body]

If I buy tickets to see Cats the musical, I expect to see a bunch of professionals putting on the performance that will be remembered. If it came to light that an hour prior to the performance, the regulars were given the day off to rest and instead, were replaced by a bunch of second graders, I'd be pissed. I get your point. But, it's still a form of entertainment. If it wasn't for the fans, Pop wouldn't have a job, and the players wouldn't be making the kind of money they're making. If players are injured, then I don't have a problem with it. But if players are healthy, I expect some sort of professionalism on the part of the players and coaches that I'm going to get my money's worth.

Why not rest one member of the big three in each of the last three games? Why rest them in a nationally televised game against an elite team?

Audiences go to the theater all the time, to discover major roles will be carried by understudies. In the NBA the bench players are the understudies. Your analogy is stupid.

[FromWayDowntown]

If I buy tickets to see Cats the musical, I expect to see a bunch of professionals putting on the performance that will be remembered. If it came to light that an hour prior to the performance, the regulars were given the day off to rest and instead, were replaced by a bunch of second graders, I'd be pissed. I get your point. But, it's still a form of entertainment. If it wasn't for the fans, Pop wouldn't have a job, and the players wouldn't be making the kind of money they're making. If players are injured, then I don't have a problem with it. But if players are healthy, I expect some sort of professionalism on the part of the players and coaches that I'm going to get my money's worth.

Well, I've also been to plenty of shows at theaters and have, at least occasionally, had to sit through a performance with an understudy playing a lead role. It happens. I don't get pissed that I'm not seeing something "better;" I try to appreciate the performance that I've paid to see. Again, I buy a ticket without any guarantee that the stars will perform for any number of reasons. It's just a risk associated with the game.

Suppose that what happened today wasn't that the Spurs rested those guys, but that they traded all of them to another team for some reason. Would there be the same gnashing of teeth and rending of garments about that decision? The fans of Miami (and TNT viewers) would be equally deprived of seeing the Spurs stars.


Why not rest one member of the big three in each of the last three games? Why rest them in a nationally televised game against an elite team?

Why doesn't Popovich get to make that decision in the best interests of his team?

[SpursNextRomanEmpire]

Stern should thank Pop.

Pop just took the NFL Thursday Night Game and the Big East Championship Game off the radar.

This topic will dominate until Saturday.

Stern is helping himself out as well, by being a bitch about it.

[Russ]

Per NBA.com, the sanction will be Joey Crawford working every Spurs game and having carte blanche 24 hour access to their practice facility.

The league is now securing Joey a palacial estate in Alamo Heights for the rest of the season.

[Captivus]

Erik is going mad!!!

[elemento]

yea it;s so easy to whine about schedule

It is when SA plays 4 games in 5 nights and Miami has 4 days off. If you think it's fair and Pop is wrong about resting the BIG 3, all I can say is that I strongly disagree with you.

I understand sportsmanship when both sides have equal conditions. Not the case here.

[PM5K]

Seriously though, these are the kind of things that let you know it's time for Stern to go, luckily he is soon.

[ace3g]

Marc J. Spears ‏@SpearsNBAYahoo (https://twitter.com/SpearsNBAYahoo) G Karl:"Is the commissioner in the right? If you're going to ask if Pop is in the right, you have to ask if the commish is in the right."

[elemento]

If I buy tickets to see Cats the musical, I expect to see a bunch of professionals putting on the performance that will be remembered. If it came to light that an hour prior to the performance, the regulars were given the day off to rest and instead, were replaced by a bunch of second graders, I'd be pissed. I get your point. But, it's still a form of entertainment. If it wasn't for the fans, Pop wouldn't have a job, and the players wouldn't be making the kind of money they're making. If players are injured, then I don't have a problem with it. But if players are healthy, I expect some sort of professionalism on the part of the players and coaches that I'm going to get my money's worth.

Why not rest one member of the big three in each of the last three games? Why rest them in a nationally televised game against an elite team?

Miami sit all their players last season in a nationally televised game against Boston. No words from Stern.

Again, why the double-standard when it comes to San Antonio ? Spo can rest his players with no sanctions but Pop can't ?

[FromWayDowntown]

For whatever it's worth, George Karl on this situation:

http://blogs.denverpost.com/nuggets/2012/11/29/nuggets-coach-george-karl-addresses-david-sterns-public-statement-spurs/7643/


Before Thursday’s game in Golden State, Denver coach George Karl was asked about Pop’s decision.

“I don’t think I’m touching this one – the only question I would ask is, is the commissioner in the right?” Karl said. “If you’re going to ask if Pop is in the right, you’ve got to ask if the commissioner is in the right. And I’m not answering either one. To me, how you coach the team should be on the organization and the coach.”

[timvp]

For posterity sake, the Spurs are up 76-73 after three quarters.

Eat it, Stern. EAT IT.

[Russ]

This Miami Herald article is particularly fun now: "Heat Hoping To Emulate San Antonio Spurs' Stability." :lol

http://www.miamiherald.com/2012/11/29/3118055_p2/miami-heat-hoping-to-emulate-san.html

[biskvito]

someone record Pop's interview after the game, I hope he's feeling creative today

[PM5K]

http://espn.go.com/nba/boxscore?gameId=320424002

[MannyIsGod]

Never wanted to see a Spurs win a game in November so much as this one. Want to see Stern try to spin it if they do.

[Russ]

Never wanted to see a Spurs win a game in November so much as this one. Want to see Stern try to spin it if they do.

"Stern fines Spurs for setting NBA road win record." :lol

[Spursfanfromafar]

If Stern has to substantially sanction someone, it must be the Heat. I mean, sucking on national TV against the Spurs' backups? How disappointing is that for the NBA?

[spurs10]

Stern is getting humiliated.

[Mel_13]

W/ strong performance, SA reserves gain a collective confidence tonight that will be invaluable. That's not tanking. It's team-building.

https://twitter.com/kevinarnovitz

[FromWayDowntown]

For posterity sake, the Spurs are up 76-73 after three quarters.

Eat it, Stern. EAT IT.

Spurs up 4 at the 6:00 mark of the 4th.

[FromWayDowntown]

W/ strong performance, SA reserves gain a collective confidence tonight that will be invaluable. That's not tanking. It's team-building.

https://twitter.com/kevinarnovitz

a point that is well-taken and has been remarkably absent in the discussions of this situation (by both those who support the decision and those who oppose it).

[Kidd K]

Stern gonna need a steady supply of throat lozenges if the Spurs win this. His throat's gonna be mad sore after this dicking Pop and the Spurs' bench are giving him.

[TIMMYD!]

If this turns out to be a W , Stern can't say shit.

[FromWayDowntown]

If this turns out to be a W , Stern can't say shit.

Oh, he can. And he probably will.

He'll just look like a petulant jackass.

[TIMMYD!]

De Colo 3, haha

[Mel_13]

When the Spurs sat Duncan & Parker in February in Portland, with Manu hurt, a fan wrote Popovich a letter of complaint. Pop wrote back. Pop: "I wrote him back and I said, 'If I was in your position, I would write the same letter. I agree with you totally. You're right. But my priorities are different than yours.' In the general sense, frankly, everything doesn't go our way in life."

https://twitter.com/SHowardCooper

[MannyIsGod]

Well fuck. I guess the point has been made either way.

[Mel_13]

Stern should have waited until after the game to run his mouth. Fans at the arena got their money's worth and I'm sure that TNT's ratings were just fine.

[ChuckD]

"I apologize to all NBA fans. This was an unacceptable decision by the San Antonio spurs and substantial sanctions will be forthcoming."


:wow:wow:wow
What Stern did, besides shitting his Depends, was the equivalent of a ref anticipating a foul. That was the best TNT game I've seen in a couple of years.

[FromWayDowntown]

The NBA fans that Stern apologized to got a better game out of the depleted Spurs and the Heat tonight than they'll get on most nights in most arenas.

I guess Stern was preemptively apologizing for showing a competitive, entertaining game.

[Obstructed_View]

Stern should be giddy that Pop did this. I've never seen ESPN talk about the Spurs this much without someone being injured.

[ALVAREZ6]

stern is a j3wbag cocksucking phaggot that literally all people hate outside of his direct subordinates and family

I can say that with 99% confidence.

[ALVAREZ6]

Well ladies and gentelmen, I'm proud to announce that I will be stepping down as NBA commissioner.

*loud cheers and feelings of euphoria*






















.....in 2037.

[DesignatedT]

Has anybody asked Pop about this yet? :lol

[ALVAREZ6]

Erase all championships and victories since the beginning of the Popovich era!!!!!
Fine $60 million!!!
Take away scholarshi...errr... I mean reduce the Spurs salary cap by 25% for the next 4 seasons!!!!!!!!!

[swaggerjackson]

I don't know. I have to admit I, not living anywhere near San Antonio, would feel cheated if I didn't get to see the Spurs at full force when they rolled into my town. As a fan I deserve to see what I pay for. This is why I move that Kobe, Lebron, and Durant should play all 48 minutes of every game. Also I will sue if I have to watch Richard Jefferson take the court...for anybody...ever.

[baseline bum]

I was about to make a joke about Stern's punishment being the reversal of the Stephen Jackson trade for "basketball reasons" ...... but that's not even funny.

Why would you even say such a disgusting thing? The team has been such a joy to watch after losing Dick.

[SA210]

Personally, I hate that Pop sits all of them like this. Maybe rest Duncan and Manu some, but not all 4. It is funny to see BSPN actually talk about the Spurs though lol

F Stern, not for today, F him for other reasons.

[timvp]

Why would you even say such a disgusting thing? The team has been such a joy to watch after losing Dick.

I deserve substantial sanctions, tbh.

[letmk]

Every year, players skipped the final 2-3 games. I just have one question for Stern: Why is it okay to throw away game 81st/82nd, not game 17th?

If you worry about fans or the so-called integrity, what's the difference? If anything, players like our big 3 really need the rest for a 10-day 6-game road trip, while a rest during a friendly schedule at the end of the season might potentially disrupt players' rhythm.

[TDMVPDPOY]

u know this money would end up in teh israelites hands...fck him

[Zero_Twilight]

Ouch...

Dunno what he's crying about. Everyone in Miami seemed to enjoy the game. Didn't you see those fans rise to the occasion when they humiliated the Spurs with their multi-million dollar lineup?

Water off the back...

[HI-FI]

I deserve substantial sanctions, tbh.
if they even try to force He Who Shall Not be Named back on us, i hope Castro District starts a riot in his absence.

[td4mvp2k]

NBA will sanction the Spurs of draft picks. Pop wont be doing it again.

[Stringer_Bell]

Stern has disrespected the league for whom he is designated to protect...the NBA is attempting to build a wide-international audience, and the Spurs just happen to be the only team with such a varied roster full of Olympians and World Championship veterans. So, instead of saying that tonight's game was a great chance to showcase a team filled with international players...he basically shits on the "quality" of the Spurs bench and the "quality" of all players that are not All-Stars. It's complete, utter bullshit and I hope someone has the balls to tell that dude he's really lost his mind and can't retire soon enough.

Bring on the "substantial sanctions," choke on this meat and throw that song on repeat.

[Obstructed_View]

By the way, I love Craig Sager for asking the follow up to Stern about scheduling.

[ace3g]

Stern has disrespected the league for whom he is designated to protect...the NBA is attempting to build a wide-international audience, and the Spurs just happen to be the only team with such a varied roster full of Olympians and World Championship veterans. So, instead of saying that tonight's game was a great chance to showcase a team filled with international players...he basically shits on the "quality" of the Spurs bench and the "quality" of all players that are not All-Stars. It's complete, utter bullshit and I hope someone has the balls to tell that dude he's really lost his mind and can't retire soon enough.

Bring on the "substantial sanctions," choke on this meat and throw that song on repeat.

+ 1

[ElNono]

Stern has disrespected the league for whom he is designated to protect...the NBA is attempting to build a wide-international audience, and the Spurs just happen to be the only team with such a varied roster full of Olympians and World Championship veterans. So, instead of saying that tonight's game was a great chance to showcase a team filled with international players...he basically shits on the "quality" of the Spurs bench and the "quality" of all players that are not All-Stars. It's complete, utter bullshit and I hope someone has the balls to tell that dude he's really lost his mind and can't retire soon enough.

Bring on the "substantial sanctions," choke on this meat and throw that song on repeat.

Stern doesn't care about international player. He cares about international viewers... and let's be honest here, few peeps are paying to see Mills and De Colo brick shots.

[DMC]

Stern needs to avoid issuing statements like that without consultation. I hope he steps down because of this.

[ace3g]

274369285734936576

[DMC]

Scotty Pippen Tim Duncan

[ChuckD]

274369285734936576

:lol :rollin

[TampaDude]

NBA will sanction the Spurs of draft picks. Pop wont be doing it again.

No, the NBA will not go that far. They'd end up in court over something like that, and it would be a no-win for Stern. He'll fine Pop and the organization will take care of it. Time to move on.

GO SPURS GO!!!!!

[Libri]

Erase all championships and victories since the beginning of the Popovich era!!!!!
Fine $60 million!!!
Take away scholarshi...errr... I mean reduce the Spurs salary cap by 25% for the next 4 seasons!!!!!!!!!

Stern's minions, aka refs, will be ready to administer "substantial sanctions" against the Spurs during the playoffs.

[SA210]

Stern's minions, aka refs, will be ready to administer "substantial sanctions" against the Spurs during the playoffs.

That's just normal

[Mel_13]

That's just normal

:lol

[wut]

If Stern has to substantially sanction someone, it must be the Heat. I mean, sucking on national TV against the Spurs' backups? How disappointing is that for the NBA?
Yep... where's the substantial sanctions for Lebron James... he didn't meet his 10 dunk, 4 gatorade cameo, 2 Nike poses, 1 McDonalds bite quota per game. Welcome to the NBA where putting a competitive team together isn't enough; you have to have enough "stars" at the game too or get fined.

[td4mvp2k]

No, the NBA will not go that far. They'd end up in court over something like that, and it would be a no-win for Stern. He'll fine Pop and the organization will take care of it. Time to move on. GO SPURS GO!!!!!
When Stern said it was going to be SUBSTANTIAL sactions then you know it has to be picks and fines to.

[timtonymanu]

:lol Stern
:lol didnt expect the Spurs to make it competitive
:lol :cry substantial sanctions :cry

[Uriel]

Pop said postgame he didn't know about David Stern's "substantial sanctions" statement.

[will_spurs]

Suspending Pop or a fine would not be substantial. Draft picks would be going too far.

I could see suspending the players as in " if they were so tired, they can stay home for a couple of weeks and get some rest". That would really penalize the team.

[thispego]

lol stern

[KaiRMD1]

Stern seems to be missing the point of the NBA: it's a sport. Maybe he should be promoting the love of watching the game, no matter who is on the court. What happened tonight was a great game, probably a lot better than people thought. What pop did was something I was hoping he would do in the first place because Saturday is going to be TOUGH. Props to pop and the Spurs supporting cast, games like this is how we are going to get deep again like last year. We may have lost but I guarantee a couple more "no big three" games are gonna help. 2014 can't get here any sooner.

[Mel_13]

Suspending Pop or a fine would not be substantial. Draft picks would be going too far.

I could see suspending the players as in " if they were so tired, they can stay home for a couple of weeks and get some rest". That would really penalize the team.

No way he suspends any players. Union would fight that hard, into the courts if necessary.

[TampaDude]

Fuck Stern.

In the ass.

With a running chainsaw.

[TampaDude]

No way he suspends any players. Union would fight that hard, into the courts if necessary.

^ this

Stern can't touch the players. This is all on Pop, come what may.