From sideline, Sager left his mark on league
San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich had his share of interactions with Turner Sports sideline reporter Craig Sager over the years. Some friendly — others not so much. But it was always out of fun and friendship.
Sager died last week after his battle with leukemia. Before a Spurs game against the Phoenix Suns, Popovich gave an emotional reflection on Sager and stepped away without taking questions.
“On a day like this, basketball has to take a back seat as we all think about somebody who was very unique, very special,” he said. “Whether you really knew Craig or not, you got the feeling that he was a special person in a lot of different ways. And right now, I just feel for his family. To talk about him being a professional and good at what he did is a tremendous understatement.
“All of us who knew him understood that that fact was what he was all about as far as work was concerned, but he was a way better person than he was a worker — even though he was amazing in that regard.
“He loved people. He enjoyed pregames, postgames. He loved all the people around him, and every- body felt that. So the most amazing part of him is his courage. What he’s endured, the fight that he’s put up, the courage that he’s displayed during this situation is beyond my comprehension. If any of us could display half the courage he has to stay on this planet — to live every life as if it’s his last — we’d be well off.”
The outpouring from colleagues and friends after Sager’s death was staggering alone, but even more so was the flood of comments that have flowed from those he covered and with whom he sometimes butted heads. It wasn’t just Sager’s colorful outfits that made him a transcendent figure. Here is a sampling of quotes and tweets:
“Tonight we offer condolences to his family, to (wife) Stacy and his children, we offer condolences to his colleagues at TNT, many of whom are here tonight working the game, and we mourn his loss. But while we considered a moment of silence, we thought it would be more appropriate given the way Craig lived his life and the joy he brought to so many people to have a moment of joy instead, so I’d like all of you to join me in an applause for a great man and a life well lived.” —
“Craig always did something special for me when I was playing for the L.A. Lakers. Friedman’s is a famous store here in Atlanta. They go from size 0 to 27. Craig used to tote around 20 pairs of size 22, and he would bring them before the pregame interview, and he’d say, ‘Shaq, Bruce (the store owner) wants you to look at these shoes.’ I’d look at the shoes, I’d pick the shoes, the ones I didn’t want, he would bring them back. I never asked him to do it. He just always did it on his own. He was a great man.” —
“He was all heart, dude. If you had a chance to meet Craig, man, you knew I’m coming, they know me, because Craig’s interviewing me and this is a big moment for me. But more importantly, him wanting you to succeed and wanting you to be better at whatever it is you’re doing, and just promot- ing you, without even really knowing you, that’s who he was. That’s who he really was.” —
Craig Sager was there when I crossed the plate for #715 & has been a friend ever since.I thought the world of him & he will be sorely missed — Long Live Craig. We love you! Rest in Paradise —
the sports world lost a legend today. rest in peace Mr. Craig Sager —
We are saddened to hear of Craig Sager’s passing. @therealboeheim said it best “you’re a fighter & something we should aspire to be.”
Craig Sager brought so much enthusiasm to the NBA game. But his fight to the end is what really impressed me. RIP to an inspiring man. —