Popovich's passionate opening gambit

After four years of waiting in the wings, Spurs coach starts Team USA's World Cup preparations in rousing style

LAS VEGAS - Gregg Popovich walked into USA Basketball's first team meeting in advance of their World Cup training camp, and it seemed to some in the room that he was having a little difficulty keeping his emotions in check.

Popovich talked about tradition, about what it means to play for your country, about expectations, about sacrifice, about playing the right way, about respect for opponents.