Spurs assistant Sean Sweeney set to join Magic as head coach; San Antonio focuses on Game 7
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Assistant coach Sean Sweeney is finalizing an agreement to become the next head coach of the Orlando Magic, San Antonio Spurs head coach Mitch Johnson confirmed Friday before Game 7 of the Western Conference semifinals in Oklahoma City.
“Thrilled for Sean. He deserves it,” Johnson told reporters. “It was a matter of when, not if.” Johnson brought Sweeney in last summer to oversee the defense, which improved significantly under an aggressive perimeter scheme anchored by Defensive Player of the Year Victor Wembanyama.
Guard Devin Vassell credited Sweeney for raising the team’s defensive standards. “The impact that he’s had here has been tremendous,” Vassell said. “He’s challenged everybody to be better on the defensive end.”
Young Spurs brace for first Game 7
Only a handful of Spurs have previous Game 7 experience, but Johnson expressed confidence in the young roster after Thursday’s 27-point victory forced the decisive contest. “We’ve played this team a lot this year and recently, so a lot of attention to detail, but not a whole lot of new,” he said.
Birthday boost for Harrison Barnes
Forward Harrison Barnes turned 34 on Saturday, and the Spurs hope the milestone carries some luck. According to Legion Hoops, no NBA player has lost a Game 7 on his birthday since at least 1966. Teammates serenaded Barnes with “Happy Birthday” after the morning shoot-around.
“Shout out to HB,” Vassell said. “His wisdom and knowledge—being in so many Game 7s and championship games—has calmed us down and let us know what to expect.”
While the series has lacked dramatic moments since an overtime opener, observers note it could still become memorable if Saturday’s finale delivers a thrilling finish.
Source: Hoops Rumors
