Coach Gregg Popovich is quick to agree with people around the league who say the Spurs came out ahead when Jason Kidd opted to remain in New Jersey.

"You know, they're right," he said.

"I think it was Malik Rose who said in the paper that when one of the league's premier players is available, you have to make a run at him. That's all we did."

Ron Mercer, one of the new guys picked up during the Spurs' trading and signing spree, is quick to agree with Popovich's final assessment.

"This is great; it's the best opportunity I've had since I've been in the league," Mercer said during a telephone conversation. "I'll be playing alongside Tim Duncan, and you can't turn down a chance like that. I'm just glad to be a part of this championship team."