The Twin Towers Rise: Duncan and Robinson’s Start

In 1997 Tim Duncan arrived as the top pick to form the "Twin Towers" with David Robinson. Robinson, the 1995 MVP and team soul, didn’t lean on seniority — he conceded the interior spotlight to young Duncan, sliding to facilitator and defender.

By the 1998-99 short season the duo bore fruit. In the playoffs Duncan took what he wanted inside; Robinson provided veteran edge and toughness on defense, complementary to perfection. Against the Knicks, San Antonio’s height and team overwhelmed.

After the title Robinson gave Duncan more spotlight; Duncan proved with the FMVP he deserved the core role. The Towers’ partnership was the Spurs culture in miniature: seniority yields to winning, self to team.

A city’s long-awaited crown, lifted by one old and one young tower. That was the start of the Spurs story.

Related Reading

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