The latest episode of “Gil’s Arena” had all the ingredients of a classic NBA roundtable – big personalities, basketball knowledge, and breaking news. With Kenyon Martin, Nick Young, Patrick Gilbert, and Brandon Jennings all on set, the vibe was casual and entertaining. Co-host Josiah Johnson guided things smoothly until a heartfelt moment quickly went off the rails. What was meant to be a respectful tribute to a coaching legend turned into an explosive clash of tempers.
Things started on a friendly note. Josiah began wrapping the show with some love for legendary Spurs coach Gregg Popovich, who had just announced his retirement. “We want to show some respect to Hall of Fame coach Gregg Popovich,” Josiah said, laying the groundwork for a tribute. But mid-announcement, Gilbert cracked in with a lighthearted, “still on business,” and Josiah tried to continue. After this, Kenyon Martin took the floor with real emotion, and all hell broke loose when Nick Young couldn’t put his phone down.
Kenyon was mid-sentence, clearly passionate, when he noticed Swaggy P’s lack of attention. “I’m trying not to tell Nick, shut the f— up,” Ken said, already fuming. “We’re talking about Greg Popovich. His legacy. Like, just f—— rude and disrespectful.” Nick didn’t back down, smirking, “Man, you want to talk like you on the porch?” That only lit the fire. “Yeah, we talking about this man’s legacy over here… You f—— being disrespectful, n—-,” Kenyon barked. “Say you want to make a joke. Ain’t f—— funny right now… Ain’t nobody want to see that dumb a– f— you showing.”
Things got heated fast. Kenyon went on, yelling, “We over here trying to conduct a f—— show, and you over here constantly talking… Shut the F— up. God damn.” Nick tried to brush it off, saying, “I’m be scared to look scared,” but Ken wasn’t having it. “We trying to have a real conversation… Sometimes, f—— shut up. We are showing love to Pop.” The show ended with visible tension as Kenyon made it clear, Popovich deserved more than distractions.
It was more than anger; it was an overflow of emotion born from deep respect. Kenyon wasn’t trying to show out for the cameras; he genuinely felt that Pop deserved more in that moment. “We are showing love to Pop,” he said directly to Nick, trying to refocus the room. And while the scene ended in tension, the reason behind it was clear—this wasn’t just about a phone. It was about honoring a man who meant everything to the game they all love.
Lebron James’ sweet tribute to Gregg Popovich
It is hard to argue that Popovich is indeed one of the most influential coaches in NBA history. The 3-time NBA Coach of the Year has not just added silverware to his trophy cabinet, but his influence and mentorship have had a lasting impact on some of the greats of the game, Lebron James being one of them. It’s worth noting that James has faced off with Popovich’s Spurs in the NBA Finals three times. And the only time he played under his wings was during the 2004 Olympics. But, after the veteran coach decided to hang up his boots after 29 years of coaching, James couldn’t help but give Popovich his flowers for the impact he’s had on the sport.
“There’s no way we even start this conversation without even talking about Pop and what he means for the game and what he meant obviously for the NBA, San Antonio, West Point. You talk about the superlatives when it comes to Coach Pop, man, his list is out of this world. But I think what a lot of people have found out if you ever got an opportunity to encounter a one-on-one with him or even just in [passing], how great of a f—–g guy that guy is.” King James said this on Mind the Game podcast.
From Martin’s emotional rant to Lebron James’ classy tribute, it goes on to show how respected and influential Popovich has been for the NBA. While the show will continue to move on without the veteran coach, his contribution and impact on the sport will always be remembered.
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