Tim Duncan ends his 19-season NBA career as a very accomplished individual. (Photo : Getty Images/Streeter Lecka)
Tim Duncan announced his retirement from professional basketball recently, ending a well-decorated career all achieved with just one franchise. Duncan opted for the simple way out, notifying the basketball world through a simple press release.
Tim Duncan, a five-time NBA champion and the first overall pick in the 1997 draft, ended his career on his own terms and without the lavish ceremonies. Individually, he has done it all. That includes being named the 1998 Rookie of the Year, winning the NBA season MVP twice (2002 and 2003) and being the NBA Finals MVP three times (1999, 2003 and 2005) according to NBA.com.
But what sets Tim Duncan apart from the rest is the fact that he played for only one team in 19 seasons. Curiously he was never wooed by other teams in multi-million deals such as the ones handed to Kevin Durant and LeBron James.
For this, he is considered one of the rare breeds to play NBA ball as he exemplifies loyalty and simplicity. He didn’t opt for the bright lights and be feted by teams throughout the season and opted to announce his retirement when he wanted to.
In the last NBA playoffs, Duncan was used sparingly. It was a warning sign that sent many pondering if it was indeed the future Hall of Famer’s last ride.
With NBA free agency stealing the limelight, Tim Duncan was someone overlooked. Many believed he would return for one more season seeing how he was able to keep in step with neophyte players. He even continued to show glimpses of his basketball brilliance with many wondering how.
The San Antonio Spurs couldn’t ask for more from the retiring Tim Duncan. He stuck with the team through thick and thin and now goes out the same door he came in, the NY Daily News reported.
Tim Duncan leaves the game as perhaps one of the dying breeds. The NBA is undergoing change, with most opting to prioritize winning and brand building. As far as Duncan is concerned, he did that the old fashioned dignified way.
Check out the video highlight the successful career of Tim Duncan below.
