Tim Duncan may be the only professional athlete that I've ever had any real affinity for.
Beyond his on the court talents, demeanor and leadership, I enjoyed his
snazzy wardrobe
and
love of D&D and ren faires
.
The man played into the post season in not only every year of his 19 in the NBA, but also all four years at Wake Forest. Heck, the fact he stayed in college so long, and _still_ had such a long NBA career is a testament to his character and wise choices.
Even into his twilight years, he was the consummate teammate. With 2016 the last year for both he and Kobe, the difference in player can be reviewed. Kobe went on a 50million contract, 17 win ‘farewell’ tour, Duncan took 6million and switched from the 4 to the 5 so the Spurs could bring on LaMarcus Aldridge…and post their best regular season ever. The Lakers are a wreck of a franchise now and the Spurs are still suited to be a top 3 team in the NBA next season.
I moved to Austin in '99. The year SA won their first title. My wife and I used to go to games frequently pre-kids, but would continue to listen to games on the radio. Tim Duncan playing in San Antonio has been a constant for almost two decades. Feels really weird knowing he's no longer playing down the street.
Rumor is he won’t even be at the formal announcement this week. Coach Popovich is set to announce Duncan’s retirement, but Tim won’t be there. I wouldn’t be surprised if we never see Duncan again. From this point on, a Duncan sighting may be as rare as spotting Bigfoot.
Cheers, Tim!