Two-time NBA MVP and recently retired Tim Duncan broke his silence Wednesday by thanking fans for the overflowing support he received over his 19 years in the league. Duncan, who officially retired earlier this week, also stated that he was not enjoying basketball anymore.
In a short, heartfelt, one-page letter posted on the San Antonio Spurs' official website, the 40-year old power forward detailed that out of his entire NBA journey, he will remember the people the most - from the fans, teammates, coaching staff, family and friends. He went on to specifically thank the city of San Antonio, with whom he spent his entire 19-year career, before thanking the fans around the globe.
Aside from the letter, Duncan also made his first public appearance since the news of his departure broke out. In an exclusive interview with ViVid Streaming, Duncan answered questions regarding his physical capability to keep on playing by saying, "I could probably still play." However, he noted that it was time to hang up his sneakers when he started to lose the enjoyment of the game. Duncan maintained that for him, "when it's not fun anymore, I'm done."
Duncan is arguably the greatest power forward in NBA history, and he conveyed his appreciation for being considered one of the all-time greats. He noted that he doesn't care where exactly he is ranked but stated that the fact that he's in the conversation is an honor in itself. The five-time champion is the only player in NBA history to play over 9,000 career playoff minutes and is first all-time in playoff double-doubles, third in total rebounds, sixth in total points and averaged 20.6 points and 11.4 rebounds with field goal percentage of .501.
After announcing his retirement, the 15-time All-Star received tons of tributes from fans worldwide, current and retired NBA players, friends and family, as well as league executives and coaches. Former teammate Steve Kerr, who now coaches the Golden State Warriors, previously called Duncan the best teammate ever. Duncan said he got a personal note from Kerr saying something along those lines.
Duncan ended with two simple but emphatic words: thank you.
The video below shows Tim Duncan's first interview after his retirement.