The Spurs wasted no time paying tribute to one of the most decorated players in team history Sunday after a 113-100 win over the Pelicans.
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Tim Duncan stepped away from basketball after last season, but the Spurs retired his No. 21 jersey in front of a host of thankful fans just months later.
Longtime teammate Tony Parker paid tribute to his friend by saying a few words during the ceremony.
Tony Parker on what made Tim Duncan so special! #ThankYouTD pic.twitter.com/TqpyCnvQLp
— NBA (@NBA) December 19, 2016
“To me, he’s superstar plus plus. He’s by himself," Parker said. "He’s in his own place. He wanted to win. But off the court he cares."
Duncan was a 15-time All-Star and five-time NBA champion during an illustrious career in San Antonio. He exemplified loyalty, craftsmanship and a quiet tenacity that made him one of the best and most prolific centers to ever step on an NBA court.
Duncan is a sure-fire Hall of Famer.
Coach Pop on his twenty years with Tim Duncan! #ThankYouTD pic.twitter.com/MTxaJ6LayQ
— NBA (@NBA) December 19, 2016