Spurs assistant Ettore Messina to coach Game 3 in Gregg Popovich’s place

Gregg Popovich is mourning a tragic family loss this week, and as expected he not going to coach the San Antonio Spurs in Game 3 of the opening round of the playoffs.

The Spurs have announced that assistant coach Ettore Messina will take over head coaching duties against the Golden State Warriors on Thursday night.

Spurs say Ettore Messina will coach Game 3 tonight against the Warriors. Gregg Popovich is out following the death of his wife, Erin, yesterday.

— Jeff McDonald (@JMcDonald_SAEN) April 19, 2018

Popovich’s wife, Erin, passed away on Wednesday. ESPN reported that she had been ill over an extended period of time. Several prominent members of the NBA community have offered their support for Pop during what must be an incredibly difficult time.

The Spurs will be home on Thursday night in an 0-2 series hole against the Warriors.