Consistency propels Popovich

Spurs coach still know show to push all the right buttons

A San Antonio shoot-around practice is winding down in silence, except for the occasional dribble or the whooshing sound made by a ball dropping through the net.

Players are lined up along the sides of the foul lane, watching teammates take two free throws before moving on. It is very orderly, no half-court shooting contests or wasting energy.