The Twin Towers’ End: Duncan and Robinson’s Torch

In 1997 Tim Duncan arrived as the top pick to form the mighty "Twin Towers" with David Robinson. Robinson, the 1995 MVP and Olympic champ, conceded the interior spotlight to the rookie; together they won the 1999 first title.

By 2002-03 the aging Robinson was winding down and Duncan was fully the leader. In the playoffs Duncan shouldered most interior duty; Robinson aided with experience in limited minutes. After beating New Jersey, Robinson retired gracefully — the Twin Towers era ended.

The championship symbolized legacy: the old Admiral passed the torch, and Duncan proved with an FMVP he deserved to be San Antonio’s new core. The Spurs rebuilt around him into a longer title cycle.

Generations age, but someone is always young. The Towers’ farewell was the start of the Big Fundamental carrying the flag alone.

Related Reading

• The Twin Towers Rise: Duncan and Robinson’s Start
• 1995 NBA MVP: David Robinson (San Antonio Spurs)
• 1995 NBA Finals MVP: Hakeem Olajuwon (Houston Rockets)
• 1995 Hakeem Olajuwon FMVP Breakdown（五）
• 1995 Hakeem Olajuwon FMVP Breakdown（一）