Cleveland Cavaliers coach Tyronn Lue faced medical problems during this crazy Cavs season and took a leave of absence in March. He ended up missing nine games.
Lue may have rushed back from his respite, however, per a new interview with Marc J. Spears of The Undefeated. Lue felt he had to come back to get his team—and himself—ready for the postseason.
"When I came back I wasn't ready, but I knew I only had three more games to coach to get ready for the playoffs, so if I was gonna do it, I had to come back then," Lue told Spears. "I don't think I was quite ready, but I came back. I wasn't gonna let those guys go through this: all the pressure, all the stuff that comes with the job. I wasn't gonna let those guys go through it without me. It wasn't fair to them. It wasn't fair to the players, so I knew I had to get back out there. I wasn't quite ready when I came back, but I feel great now."
It's awesome to hear that Lue feels "great" now, but it's still a little disheartening to hear that he felt he had to rush back. His health should, of course, be his top priority. The job of an NBA head coach is incredibly taxing and stressful—no one should underestimate the pressure they're under to perform.
Lue said he has changed up his diet—no more treats for him.
"I have a chef who comes and cooks for me," Lue said. "She's a dietitian who has a culinary degree. She cooks healthy, no sugars…I'm working out when I get a chance too. Trying to cut back on the sweets as much as possible."
The NBA Finals will commence Thursday at 9 p.m. ET at Oracle Arena. Catch the action on ABC.
