Death of Gregg Popovich’s Wife Erin Casts Shadow Over NBA Playoffs

On Wednesday night, the Cavaliers won 100-97 over the Pacers, the Jazz beat the Thunder 102-95 and the Rockets bumped off the Timberwolves 102-82.

However, the losses of Indiana, Oklahoma City and Minnesota paled in comparison to the loss of San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich, who lost his 67-year-old wife, Erin, to an illness.

The Spurs announced Erin’s death on Wednesday night while games were already underway, prompting a TNT sideline reporter to ask LeBron James for his thoughts on it after his game.

James, who finished with 46 points, 12 rebounds and five assists to lead the Cavs to the win, is close with the Popovich family and was clearly upset to learn of the sad news.

Tonight in Game 3s, the Philadelphia 76ers will take on the Miami Heat, the Portland Trail Blazers will play the New Orleans Pelicans and the Golden State Warriors will face the Spurs.

The 76ers/Heat series is tied at 1-1 and the Pelicans lead their series 2-0 as do the Warriors.

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Evan Bleier

Evan is a senior editor with InsideHook who earned a master’s degree in journalism from NYU and has called Brooklyn home since 2006. A fan of Boston sports, Nashville hot chicken and Kentucky bourbon, Evan has had his work published in publications including “Maxim,” Bleacher Report and “The Daily Mail.”