Hawks’ Belinelli talks about relationship with Popovich

Atlanta guard Marco Belinelli played against a giant from his past on Monday night when the Hawks traveled to take on San Antonio.

Belinelli, who played for the Spurs for two seasons from 2013-15, spent time before the game talking about Spurs coach Gregg Popovich and what he admires about his former coach.

“Not a lot of people know Pop out of the court and he’s an amazing person,” Belinelli said to Fox Sports. “He’s like a dad. Every time he’s ready to help you, he’s really close to you and I really have a great relationship with him.”

Belinelli, who won a championship with the Spurs, scored 11 points in the Hawks’ 96-85 loss.

After the game, Belinelli posted a picture with Popovich on Twitter.