Duncan quietly retired in 2016; the Spurs retired No. 21, and in 2020 he entered the Hall of Fame, the Big Fundamental's legend ending gently.
The 2014 5th title was the farewell of Duncan-Ginobili-Parker and the start of Leonard’s torch. Team-first Spurs culture completed a graceful handoff.
In 1988-89 the Detroit Pistons swept the Lakers 4-0. Joe Dumars hounded Magic Johnson on defense and was named Finals MVP, launching the Bad Boys' championship era.
From 1999 to 2014, Duncan led five title wins, building a Spurs dynasty across three decades—the most durable winner of team basketball.
No off-court scandals, self-disciplined training, humble persona—Duncan set the NBA role-model standard with silence and professionalism.
Winning Finals MVP in 1999, 2003, and 2005, Duncan became the Finals MVP three times in the most understated way.
Popovich and Duncan fulfilled each other; 23 years of mentor-disciple wrote the NBA's longest bond, the Spurs system running because of the Big Fundamental.
Rookie Duncan and David Robinson formed the Spurs' Twin Towers; the veteran stepped aside to enable the 1999 first title, a beautiful story of legacy.
In the 50-game 1998-99 season, the Spurs beat New York 4-1. Tim Duncan averaged 27.4 points and 14 boards to win his first Finals MVP.
From the 1997 No. 1 pick to his 2016 retirement, Tim Duncan gave 19 years to one city, writing the silent cornerstone of a five-title Spurs dynasty and the greatest power forward ever.
Tim Duncan was the absolute cornerstone of San Antonio’s GDP and Popovich system; the 1997 top pick brought five titles and defined team basketball.
James Worthy played at North Carolina alongside Jordan, won the 1982 NCAA title, then was drafted first overall by the Lakers, launching the Showtime era.