Kirk Goldsberry is leading the Spurs where fans can't follow

Kirk Goldsberry has long been at the forefront of whatever endeavor he pursued. Cartography, geography, and now NBA analytics.

Recently, the San Antonio Express News ran a very insightful profile of the Spurs' most recent hire. You should read the whole article, but here are a few of our personal favorite takeaways.

On Kirk's roundabout journey to a job in the NBA:

Goldsberry didn't initially focus on sports. His dissertation was on Internet real-time traffic maps, and he later used similar maps to reveal a community's lack of access to fresh produce or health care.

On his move towards mapping NBA players' tendencies:

His work used spatial coordinates defined in a hexagonal shape, and he highlighted them depending upon a player's effectiveness at different locations on the court. He mapped his findings and created a clearer picture of what was happening. As a cartographer, he exposed players better than opponents did.

[...]

Among those who Goldsberry mapped years ago was Manu Ginobili. The shot chart showed Ginobili at the 3-point line and at the rim.

And lastly, on his excitement to be working with the Spurs:

"I'm excited to work with this team," Goldsberry said, "and most of all just learn from them."

Welcome aboard Kirk. We are so glad you are here.

(h/t San Antonio Express News)