It was a nice moment to cap an event that showcased the San Antonio Spurs at their most likable. But this was still the Duncan fans came to know (or not know) - direct, largely self-effacing in public, and thoughtful about the relationships he shares with his coaches and teammates. That reputation made it a little surprising to hear Duncan narrate his own tribute video directed by his brother Scott, a successful TV cameraman and cinematographer:Īs Duncan said, he shocked many by not wearing jeans, putting on a jacket, and speaking for more than 30 seconds. Yet those speeches were mere prelude to the main event - a speech from a player well known for avoiding the media and the trappings of celebrity whenever possible. That damning piece of evidence will surely end the baseless assumption that Duncan was the NBA’s lone unselfish star. There were also moments of levity, such as the revelation that Duncan made Popovich bring him carrot cake - that popular vice - on a regular basis. Pop’s comments touched on much of what he covered in July’s informal presser, including the touching statement that Duncan’s deceased parents should be extremely proud that their son stayed the same person throughout his 19 seasons in San Antonio. That introduction proved fitting for Popovich’s second public speech about what Duncan means to him: ![]() Odom followed by thanking Duncan for his contributions to Wake Forest (an odd sentiment for a Spurs event, if we’re being honest) and calling attention to the special bond between Popovich and his longtime superstar. Ginobili followed with more fond memories and tributes to Duncan, including the revelation that he calls him “Nanu.” Like Parker, Ginobili emphasized the high standard that the Big Fundamental set for the rest of the Spurs and his willingness to work with his teammates to improve their games. Wearing these socks in honor of #Timmy tonight ! ![]() Throughout it all, one thing became perfectly clear - that everyone who had the pleasure of working with Duncan found him not just a legendary player, but a special person, teammate, and friend. The ceremony featured comments from teammates Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili, coaches Dave Odom (his college coach for four years at Wake Forest) and Popovich, and Duncan himself. 21 jersey following a 113-100 win over the New Orleans Pelicans. He didn’t even address the media - that role fell to head coach Gregg Popovich, who said a few affecting words on the team’s practice court in mid-July.ĭuncan finally got a more formal goodbye on Sunday night, when the Spurs retired his No. Instead, Duncan assessed his options after the 2015-16 season, made his decision, and had the Spurs announce his retirement for him. Unlike fellow icon Kobe Bryant, there were no season-long farewell tours. Ginobili said after several calls, he finally picked it up, and said "What?" Duncan was on the line.San Antonio Spurs legend Tim Duncan did not retire with much, or any, fanfare. ![]() However, there was another phone in the bathroom, which started ringing. It rang again and he hung up several times, then unplugged it. He said the hotel phone then rang and he ignored it. Ginobili said he turned off his phone as he sat in his hotel room. I wanted to dig a hole in the floor and just hide there forever." "I was truly embarrassed to have turned the ball over like that, and it really hurt me. Upset with himself, Ginobili retreated to his hotel room, hoping to avoid talking to anyone. Ginobili explained that during a series against the Sacramento Kings, with the game on the line, he messed up the play, turned the ball over, and the Kings scored to win. Tim Duncan's jersey retirement with the San Antonio Spurs on Sunday night was filled with stories and anecdotes about Duncan's leadership during his legendary 19-year career.ĭuncan's long-time teammate Manu Ginobili shared a particularly great story about how Duncan cheered him up after the Spurs lost a playoff game.
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