Shared views bond Kerr, Van Gundy

DETROIT — When Pistons head coach Stan Van Gundy sees something on the news or in an article that grabs his attention, he often thumbs through his contacts list and shoots Warriors head coach Steve Kerr a text message.

“We generally tend to see the issues the same way,” Van Gundy said before Friday night’s game against the Warriors at Little Caesars Arena.

That common ground has been the foundation of a budding friendship. Two of the most socially conscious coaches in sports, Van Gundy and Kerr have come to appreciate each other for reasons bigger than basketball.

The two have been vocal about their displeasure with President Trump. Within the past year, they have criticized Trump for his divisive campaign rhetoric; his executive order banning immigrants from majority-Muslim countries from traveling to the United States; his profane comments about NFL players who protest racial inequality during the national anthem; and his decision to pull the Warriors’ invitation to celebrate the team’s NBA title at the White House.

Last month, Van Gundy wrote an opinion piece for Time Magazine: “Detroit Pistons Coach: Athletes Who Protest Are Patriots.” In the piece, he lauded “those brave and patriotic athletes who are working to bring change to our country.” Kerr appreciated the piece, especially the part in which Van Gundy detailed the difference between nationalism and patriotism.

“He’s a friend, and he’s somebody I respect because of his willingness to speak out, to call people out and say what he thinks without fear of repercussion,” Kerr said. “He doesn’t care what anybody says or thinks about him. He knows what’s right and wrong, and he professes that. That’s an important thing these days.” Rest ahead: The Warriors are about to be rewarded for finishing their longest trip of the season: They only play twice in the next nine days, and they don’t leave California until Jan. 3.

The less-intensive stretch should allow players to get over minor ailments. Guard Patrick McCaw (nose contusion/concussion) missed his second straight game Friday, while center Zaza Pachulia (left shoulder soreness) sat out for the second time in three games.

Guard Stephen Curry (sprained right ankle) will get re-evaluated Dec. 19.