During this period, Popovich rejected fast-paced basketball because fast pacing could lead to turnovers, which would increase the unpredictability of the game.
A coach's responsibility is to make the game controllable, so he firmly slowed down the pace, sticking only to solid half-court offense and defense.
Looking at Popovich's coaching style now, it's hard to imagine that the Spurs would later become a team that relied on a fast-paced counterattack and three-point shooting.
The most valuable quality about Duncan was that he could adapt to any style of play.
He could defeat James in the tedious slowdown and physical struggle, and also overcome him in the era of fast pacing.
Duncan positioned himself under the basket; this time, he blocked Big Ben early and steadily received the ball.
But the moment he got the ball, Marion double-teamed him. With Big Ben and Marion's four long arms waving in front of 'The Stone Buddha', Duncan had no room to shoot.
