When asked by a particular team manager why, Michael Cooper replies, "Call me Pop Tart because I 'pop up' on you when you least expect it."
This mundane event reveals the character of the man who is the head of the USC women's basketball program. Not only does he 'pop up' on his players unexpectedly, you have to wonder what thoughts are running through this man's head while he watches you for those brief minutes that you are unaware of his regard. This is what makes Michael Cooper such a dynamic and interesting coach, because you can believe that he sees something in you, that as a player, makes you think he can make you better. He sees your strengths and weaknesses, but he also sees your limits and tries to coach you beyond them.
During practices, Coach Cooper's comments reveal the depth of his analysis on each of his players and of the opposing team. These are not surface revelations, but deeply ingrained knowledge of the game that has been developed over decades of playing with the Los Angles Lakers and as the head coach of the Los Angeles Sparks. And all of this knowledge is at the disposal of the Women of Troy.
However, the most intriguing thing about Michael Cooper is the fact that his humor, revealed by his request to be called "Pop Tart", is indicative of the man who analyzes everything. He has fun catching people off-guard, and he has fun trying to understand his players. This is a man who is at equal times thoughtful, introverted and analytical, while being completely extroverted, funny, and joyful with his coaches, players, office staff, random people in airports, and his team managers.
At the first practice, Michael Cooper put his players at ease by ending practice by introducing the dance ritual that has since, ended practices on a happy and joyful note. And as a particular team manager was typing up this entry, Coach Cooper unexpectedly 'popped' up once again to comment on this manager's dedication to homework. Little did he know that he would be the subject of this particular blog, and like the man that he is, a laugh and chuckle followed his wake. Just as he had planned.
