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.
In 2014 the Spurs avenged Miami; though 38-year-old Duncan did not win FMVP, he was the title cornerstone, writing a footnote that veterans never die.
Duncan (the Big King) paired with Parker and Ginobili (the Little Kings); the GDP trio kept the Spurs perennial, the most classic triangle in the NBA.
Tim Duncan honed four years at Wake Forest, entered the 1997 draft first overall, and quickly became the league’s best power forward, anchoring the Spurs dynasty.
Tony Parker joined Tim Duncan and Manu Ginóbili to form the famed "GDP," winning four titles over nearly two decades — the NBA’s most enduring championship core.
Irving is a champion but never won a regular-season MVP or Finals MVP — yet he is still trusted in the biggest moments.
In 1979 Magic led Michigan State to the NCAA title, then was picked first overall by the Lakers, forming a core with Kareem and launching the Showtime era.
Winning the regular-season MVP in 2002 and 2003 back-to-back, Duncan secured his place as the league's strongest individual early in his career.
On this day in 2026, Russell Westbrook announced his retirement. The man who poured everything into every possession hangs it up.
Tim Duncan, a five-time Finals MVP, anchored the Spurs' dominance with key performances, notably averaging 23.8 points, 12.6 rebounds, and 4.3 blocks in the 2003 Finals.
Duncan joined in 1997 with David Robinson to form the Twin Towers; in 1999 they won the first title together, the old Admiral as sidekick, Duncan as the load-bearer.
Chauncey Billups, "Mr. Big Shot," was known for clutch threes and steady control. He bounced among teams yet remained the most reliable backcourt helmsman.