Jeremy Sochan, a promising young talent in basketball, recently shared insights about a tense moment when Spurs coach Gregg Popovich ejected him from a practice session. Speaking on the Hoopsfix podcast, Sochan reflected on the lesson behind the incident, revealing important aspects of his relationship with Popovich and the pressures of being an NBA player.
During the conversation, Sochan described the experience when Popovich told him to leave practice, explaining the event in detail and how it was meant to drive improvement. This moment highlighted the challenges players face, even when working with legendary coaches like Popovich.
Understanding the dynamic between Jeremy Sochan and Gregg Popovich
Sochan used a vivid analogy to explain his rapport with Popovich, comparing it to a marriage marked by both affection and conflict. He stated,
“Last year, I got kicked out of practice one time,”
adding,
“Pop’s my guy, we always say to each other that we are like a married couple. There are days where we love each other and there are days where it’s like no f**k you, I don’t like you. That’s our kind of relationship.”
—Jeremy Sochan, Spurs player
The reason for Sochan’s removal from practice was tied to Popovich’s expectations of effort and intensity. The coach believed Sochan could push harder, and used the moment as a disciplinary tool. Sochan recounted,
“One practice he saw me and thought I could give more effort and I think for him it’s a way to teach you a lesson. He just literally told me to get out,”
he said.
“I was like ‘oh s**t’. With Pop you don’t really want to talk back.”
—Jeremy Sochan, Spurs player
Acknowledging Popovich’s strict approach, Sochan chose to respond with silence rather than confrontation, recognizing it was a moment to accept the coach’s authority and learn from the experience. This interaction underscores the intense pressure on players to meet the high standards set by seasoned coaches in the NBA.
Jeremy Sochan’s demanding offseason routine amid Spurs’ playoff absence
The 2023-24 season ended with the San Antonio Spurs positioned 13th in the Western Conference, missing the playoffs. Challenges such as Victor Wembanyama’s injury and Gregg Popovich’s health issues contributed to the team’s struggles.
With extra time available between seasons, Spurs players, including Sochan, planned to devote considerable effort to personal improvement. Reflecting on this period, Sochan shared, “The schedule is pretty crazy,” and noted,
“We finished in April. Unfortunately, we didn’t make the playoffs but the (new) season doesn’t start until October. So, that’s a lot of time to be just free.”
—Jeremy Sochan, Spurs player
After the season concluded, Sochan remained in San Antonio briefly to focus on his skills before traveling to London. He also planned a vacation in Spain, which he balanced with maintaining his fitness. However, the core of Sochan’s offseason training is set to begin in June, signaling his determination to elevate his game ahead of the next campaign.
The broader implications for Sochan and the Spurs moving forward
Sochan’s reflection on being ejected from practice offers a glimpse into the demanding nature of professional basketball, especially under a coach renowned for his exacting standards like Gregg Popovich. The incident served as a moment of growth, reinforcing discipline and mental toughness.
Meanwhile, the Spurs’ failure to reach the playoffs has given their young core, with players like Sochan, more time to refocus and prepare for future seasons. Sochan’s mix of rest, travel, and rigorous training highlights his eagerness to prove himself and contribute more significantly to the team’s success.
As Sochan commits to a disciplined offseason and embraces the lessons learned from Popovich’s stern coaching style, his development will be closely watched by fans and analysts anticipating a stronger Spurs presence in the Western Conference next season.