Gregg Popovich gives his interesting take on analytics
Gregg Popovich decided to give his thoughts on the analytics revolution that is sweeping the NBA.
Analytics have taken the NBA by storm ever since teams began hiring front office executives that have used an analytical background to run teams. While it has a place in the game, not everyone has always been on board with the idea of analytics. Some people like Charles Barkley refer to those that prefer analytics as those that have never played sports.
San Antonio Spurs Gregg Popovich has never been afraid to give his thoughts on a topic within the game. Keeping it real like he always does, Popovich shared his thoughts on the rise of the analytics trend in the NBA at the moment.
As one could expect, Popovich gave a classic quote as always.
Pop, on the analytics revolution: "I look at the analytics. Some of it is very worthwhile. Some of it is superfluous poppycock.”
— Jeff McDonald (@JMcDonald_SAEN) January 5, 2016
Probably many had to look up in the dictionary what superfluous and poppycock mean, but the gist of it is that some parts of the analytics are very beneficial to the game, while other parts are utter nonsense and provide no value.
That seems to be the general consensus by many that follow the game. Analytics certainly have their place in sports, but there are points where they go absolutely too far and really have no bearing.
Teams like Houston and Philadelphia have been strong proponents for analytics in basketball. While some moves have paid off as a result, others have not. It’s hard to replace the human element of the game and Popovich knows that. That’s why he has five NBA Championships to his name.
The argument about analytics in sports will be one that continues to go on, especially as new data fields and statistics are created. Where their place in sports and the NBA ends up, will remain to be seen.