Toronto Raptors small forward Kawhi Leonard and San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich have kept in touch through text messages since Leonard was traded by the Spurs in July, according to Michael C. Wright of ESPN.

Sources have told ESPN's Michael C. Wright that Popovich and Leonard have kept in touch since the player was traded to Toronto in July. In November, after Popovich made headlines with comments on Leonard's leadership, the sources said the two remained solidly in touch via text messages.

Kawhi Leonard was booed every time he touched the ball on Thursday in his return to San Antonio. After the game, Gregg Popovich and Leonard embraced and spoke for a few minutes.

Related NewsArticle continues below
San Antonio Spurs executives show the NBA Draft picks they won in the NBA Draft lottery.
Spurs’ front office drops candid take on expectations for No. 2 pick
San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich watches his team play against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the second half at Paycom Center.
City council member makes Spurs’ Gregg Popovich airport name request

Popovich even told reporters in his postgame interview that he felt bad Leonard got booed by Spurs fans, so clearly, their relationship is on good terms.

When Kawhi Leonard requested a trade in the offseason, everyone surmised the two-time Defensive Player of the Year and Gregg Popovich had a tenuous relationship due to everything that transpired last year. Leonard only played in nine games and reportedly didn't like the way the Spurs handled his lingering quadriceps injury.

It's clear, though, that Leonard and Popovich still have a close bond. Leonard appeared to be more frustrated with the Spurs' medical staff and some front office members.