LeBron James shares heartfelt message to 'dear friend' Gregg Popovich after Spurs coach suffers stroke

Even with the NBA Cup just days away, Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich is still top of mind for Lakers star LeBron James.

The Los Angeles forward had a historic night Wednesday, becoming the league's oldest player to record three straight triple-doubles in the team's win against the Grizzlies. Still, the 39-year-old was more worried about Popovich, as the legendary coach suffered a health issue prior to San Antonio's game on Nov. 2. 

Here's what LeBron had to say about his "dear friend" Popovich. 

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What did LeBron James say about Gregg Popovich?

When asked about the Lakers' next matchup Friday against the Spurs in NBA Cup group play, James had a touching sentiment to share with reporters.

"To be honest, I haven't even thought about it yet," James said. "For me personally, there's much bigger news coming out of San Antonio right now, and that's my dear friend Coach Pop.

"I'll be thinking heavily about him as I travel there tomorrow, (during) the game on Friday. Wishing him the best of health, and hopefully I see him soon. It doesn't even have to be on the sidelines, hopefully I just see him soon."

When asked about the Lakers’ NBA Cup group play starting against San Antonio on Friday, LeBron James says he hasn’t considered the competition yet, rather keeping his thoughts with his “dear friend Coach Pop” pic.twitter.com/Zj9Rl1PA8Q

Over the course of both James' and Popovich's lengthy careers, the two have developed a close friendship, respect and admiration for one another.

MORE: Latest health updates on Spurs coach Gregg Popovich

What happened to Gregg Popovich?

Popovich suffered a mild stroke ahead of the Spurs' game against the Timberwolves on Nov. 2. The franchise disclosed the details of his health event in a news release on Nov. 13.

According to the Spurs, Coach Pop has started a rehabilitation program and is expected to make a full recovery, but the team has not given a timeline for his return.