Even though LeBron James was sidelined on Monday, San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich made sure to acknowledge the Los Angeles Lakers superstar and his evolution in the NBA.

Coach Pop has nothing but great words to say to James, whom he said has been a “complete” player for a while now after his shooting struggles early in his career. The legendary tactician also shared the most impressive trait of the Lakers leader, something that he has shown right after he joined the NBA: mental toughness.

“I’ve appreciated LeBron from Day 1 … He never let (early criticism) to get to him … it’s the mental toughness. It really impressed me at that young age for him to have that maturity,” Popovich shared, per Mike Trudell of Spectrum SportsNet.

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Gregg Popovich couldn't have said it any better. Being labeled as “The Chosen One” even before he entered the NBA, LeBron James has certainly dealt with the immense pressure in an impressive manner. As Pop emphasized as well, he never let the criticisms caused by the unreal high expectations get into him. Instead, the Lakers star used all the noise as motivation to become even better.

Indeed, the maturity LeBron showed at a young age and the way he honed it to become the player he is today are truly incredible feats. While a lot has been said about his poor Finals record or the way he chased for championships, no one can deny that he is one, if not the most mentally tough and resilient player in the history of the NBA.