NBA mourns death of Gregg Popovich’s wife, Erin

LeBron James fought back tears. Former President Bill Clinton offered condolences. Craig Sager’s daughter tweeted that she was “just sick” over the news.

Such is the regard that so many, from so many walks of life, have for San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich, whose 67-year-old wife, Erin, died Wednesday after a long battle with a respiratory problem.

Spurs star Manu Ginobili says the team is “devastated, we are all hurting.” But the players will “go out there and compete” and respect Popovich’s philosophy of playing with “fire” and “determination.”

Added San Antonio’s Tony Parker: “It puts everything in perspective. It’s way bigger than basketball.”

The Spurs trail the Golden State Warriors 2-0 in the first round, with the playoff series shifting to San Antonio on Thursday night. The 69-yearold coach ran practice Wednesday but will not be on the sideline for Game 3. Assistant Ettore Messina will coach the team.

Clinton reached out on Twitter to the coach and his daughters: “I join the NBA family and countless fans across the country who are thinking of you, Jill, and Micky tonight as you mourn the loss of your Erin.”

The Spurs asked the media to respect the family’s privacy. General manager RC Buford said at Thursday’s shootaround he spoke to Popovich, who is “overwhelmed by the support” but “wants our focus to be about the game today.”

“Erin and Gregg were best friends who were together for 40 years, and Erin’s impact and influence on our organization, on our families, on our players and their families will be felt for years to come,” Buford said.