Reflect on the illustrious 19-year NBA career of Tim Duncan, which was marked by MVPs, Finals accolities, championships and more.
SAN ANTONIO — The contents inside Lonnie Walker IV’s gut churned, retched up and splattered into a puddle on the floor.
There’s no embarrassment if a rookie who is out of shape throws up after a workout with the retired Tim Duncan.
Duncan immediately rushed over to clean up the mess.
“Once the cleanup was done, Timmy told Lonnie, ‘Get back on the court, we have work to do,’ ” Spurs CEO R.C. Buford recalled recently from a deserted patio at a neighborhood Mexican eatery. “Timmy was at the gym that day, training with Lonnie who was out of shape from being sidelined after a meniscus tear and missing the first eight weeks of the season. Tim hadn’t even started coaching yet. But when you have Tim Duncan cleaning up after you, it sends a strong message.”
Adding just one more to two decades’ worth, a 19-season NBA career that contributed immensely to the creation of the San Antonio Spurs culture, culminated in Duncan’s induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame on Saturday.
“Everyone is familiar with the story, and it’s quite remarkable,” said Spurs coach Gregg Popovich. “And yes, the story is true. We’re all extremely pleased about it. At dinner, we still honor him with a toast saying, ‘Thank you, Timmy.’ Therefore, it’s undeniably special.”
Frankly, it’s unfeasible to capture the essence of Duncan’s career through mere words or an elaborate analysis. His phenomenal career statistics, five championships, two Most Valuable Player awards, and 15 All-Star appearances are already well-known. Besides, it’s noteworthy that Duncan concluded his career in 2016 standing second in playoff wins, first in playoff double-doubles, and third in postseason rebounds.
According to Elias Sports Bureau, the 15-year duration between Duncan’s first (1999) and last (2014) titles is the second longest in league history. This record is only surpassed by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s 17-year span, considering players who participated in both NBA Finals series.
It is understood that Duncan and John Salley are the sole players in NBA history to have won titles in three different decades. Additionally, Duncan is the first Hall of Fame inductee to have played his entire career of a minimum of 15 seasons under the same coach.
Explore Tim Duncan’s career milestones, from his initial points in Milwaukee to scoring his 25,000th point at the Staples Center.
Who could overlook the achievement of Duncan, Tony Parker, and Manu Ginobili, who together recorded 126 playoff victories, setting an NBA record for any trio? They also hold the record for most regular-season victories (575). Moreover, they are the first group of three or more teammates to win four championships together since the era of Magic Johnson, Abdul-Jabbar, Michael Cooper, and Kurt Rambis. This information is according to the Elias Sports Bureau.
Duncan explained, “It all boils down to my personal competitiveness, a passion for the game, a distaste for losing, and belonging to an organization that is dedicated to providing the best resources for the city, the team, and players like me to have a chance at winning consistently, year after year.”
Though, the explanation of how Duncan achieved everything falls into a more complex domain.
Despite Duncan’s near-flawless skills on the court, he was never known for incredible athleticism. His former Wake Forest teammate and close friend, Marc Blucas, humorously comments that both he and Duncan would admit that Duncan couldn’t jump over a phone book.
An examination of the character of Tim Duncan offers insights into how a lean child from the U.S. Virgin Islands, who dreamt of becoming an Olympic swimmer before Hurricane Hugo devastated all the local swimming facilities in 1989, managed to take the NBA by storm. His rise not only boosted the reputation of the then-unknown Popovich but also elevated an entire NBA team. His success can be traced back to the essential character traits instilled in him by his parents, Delysia Ione and William Duncan, on their home island of St. Croix in the Caribbean, spanning 82 square miles.
Make no mistake. Before Duncan arrived in San Antonio as the top pick of the 1997 draft, the San Antonio Spurs were already functioning as somewhat of a militaristic, regimented franchise under Popovich and what Buford called “a really principled group of standard bearers” such as David Robinson, Mario Elie, Avery Johnson, Sean Elliott and Terry Porter.
“Timmy brought a softening effect,” Buford elaborated. “Things became less strict and inflexible. The bond between Pop and Tim introduced a nurturing atmosphere, in my opinion,” he added.
SENSE OF HUMOR: Before joining the cast of the TV series “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” and later starring opposite Katie Holmes in “First Daughter” in an acting career spanning more than 30 movie credits, Marc Blucas was a senior guard at Wake Forest “playing above my gene pool” when a 17-year-old Duncan walked into the gym on the first day of school.
Duncan, who was the least publicized of the three recruits from Wake Forest’s 1993 class, anticipated redshirting during his freshman year.
Marc Blucas, a longtime friend of Tim Duncan, is seen sharing a laugh with him and Grant Hill in 2014.
After playing just one pick-up ball session with Duncan, Blucas and his co-senior captain Randolph Childress promptly came up with a new plan.
“Blucas made it clear, saying, ‘It was obvious from the start. His performance was already at a level where he fit in. He had this perfect balance of calmness and competitiveness. I vividly remember turning to Randolph Childress and suggesting, ‘Hey, we need to inform Coach Odom that they shouldn’t redshirt this young player.’ We immediately went to convey this to him.”
Blucas was deeply impressed by the one season he spent fighting alongside the power forward, Duncan, who started 32 out of 33 games as a freshman at Wake Forest.
“He expressed his desire to understand the origins of the man he admired, his teachings, values and everything he brought into the game,” he said. “After spending some time with him, he promptly told him, ‘I am eager to delve deeper into what shaped you. I wish to visit St. Croix for about a week to witness how it all began.'”
Therefore, Blucas scheduled a trip to the island after graduation.
Blucas now bursts into hearty laughter at the story of Lonnie Walker IV’s vomit incident, as it triggers his recollection of a similar anecdote from their trip to St. Croix. The story underscores Duncan’s sharp and witty sense of humor, qualities that greatly help in dealing with the demanding nature of an extended NBA season.
“Doing exactly that is so typical of Tim,” remarked Blucas. “He’ll do one of the most humbling acts in the world, then he’ll either unexpectedly make a humorous remark, or tell you to toughen up, get back on the court and continue playing. He’s like, ‘Alright, you vomited. I cleaned it. Let’s move on.'”
While snorkeling on a sunny summer day in St. Croix with Duncan, Blucas unknowingly stepped on a sea urchin, creating his own narrative similar to that of Lonnie Walker.
“Blucas said, “It’s stinging like hell.”
So, upon returning to the beach, Duncan explains calmly, “Hey, you’ve got to urinate on it.”
Blucas remarked, “Ha ha, nice try Island Boy. You’re not going to trick this landlocked white kid into believing I need to pee on my own foot to alleviate the pain.” He continued, “Tim said, ‘I’m not joking. It’s extremely painful. I’ve done it before. The acidity and PH of the urine can actually reduce the pain. Urinate on it.’ I replied, ‘Well, I don’t need to pee.’ He then looked at me, sporting a huge grin, and said, ‘Well, I do.'”
Telling the story, Blucas bursts into laughter.
Tim Duncan remembers his upbringing in St. Croix, before he embarked on his college and NBA career.
He stated, “I was like, ‘Go away. You’re not going to make me angry. Now, I know this is nonsense.’ Of course, it wasn’t. I ended up accidentally urinating on my foot and it felt much better. But it’s so similar to Lonnie’s story. It’s about maintaining a sense of humor and not taking yourself too seriously. It’s a great balance of, ‘We’re going to work hard, that’s what’s expected of everyone. So, let’s enjoy the process and be real friends.'”
“That encapsulates the essence of Tim, Pop and their entire team, and I believe it was largely intentional. You build your team around your star player and their leadership attributes. The Spurs select players who would be inspired to see their reputed superstar being chastised by Pop, or witnessing him humbly cleaning up someone else’s mess. It instills the thought, ‘I need to pull my weight because he’s going above and beyond his duties.'”
LEADERSHIP THROUGH SELFLESSNESS: In Duncan’s 19 seasons as a player and one as an assistant on the Spurs staff, Buford said nobody in the organization can remember a single instance he was late.
Duncan’s consistent display of professionalism over the years, of which this is just one example, has established a standard for the rest of the franchise to emulate.
Before even drafting him, the Spurs saw other examples.
Keep in mind, Duncan remained at Wake Forest for his entire four-year tenure, contrary to Buford’s opinion that he could have been the top selection as a sophomore, or perhaps even a freshman. Duncan completed his education at Wake Forest, honoring a promise he made to his mother to graduate. Additionally, Duncan had a desire to support his teammates and fully immerse in the college experience.
Tune in to hear Tim Duncan’s post-Draft phone call with Coach Gregg Popovich from 1997.
Blucas stated, “His primary focus, I believe, was on the experience, the journey, the camaraderie in the locker room. If it wasn’t about that, Tim had no interest. While he certainly played to win, he also played for the bonds he formed and the time he spent with his teammates. He was someone who preferred to savor the present moment, rather than constantly projecting into the future.”
During the pre-Draft process, Popovich learned as much firsthand.
“Pop was so eccentric that he believed we should draft Scot Pollard,” Buford explained. However, as soon as the strategy to select Duncan as No.1 overall became evident, Popovich arranged a trip to the Virgin Islands to spend time with Duncan.
“Buford explained that he learned about Tim’s family, especially the significant role of Tim’s mother who tragically passed away when Tim was just 14. He believes Pop let Tim in on his own personal stories and background, something Pop rarely does now. Buford felt they really got to understand each other. Upon Pop’s return, he shared nothing except that Tim is a wonderful individual and they will enjoy embarking on this journey with him,” he said.
Immediately, Popovich recognized all the qualities that made Duncan exceptional.
“From the time I spent with him, it was clear he was extremely smart and had an excellent sense of humor,” said Popovich. “He was serious about the game and focused on winning, nothing else mattered to him. His company was enjoyable. These were the traits I first noticed about him.”
What Popovich couldn’t have anticipated is the profound depth of it all.
Rewrite: Reflect on the development of the close relationship between Tim Duncan and Coach Gregg Popovich throughout Duncan’s career.
Lon Babby, Duncan’s former agent who later became a front office executive with the Phoenix Suns, said that he learned a valuable lesson from the power forward even before Duncan played his first game in the NBA.
Prior to the start of Duncan’s rookie season, he and Babby rode in the back of a car on the way to a Schick commercial shoot that would feature the No. 1 draft pick playing one-on-one in a backyard with Spurs’ veteran star David Robinson. The premise of the commercial centered on the veteran teaching the rookie a lesson. But on the way to the shoot, an issue arose with the script about one of Robinson’s lines.
Babby, also known for representing Hall of Fame inductee Tamika Catchings, recalled, “During our conversation, I told Tim, ‘My role is to represent you, so David’s viewpoint doesn’t really concern me.’ To which he replied, ‘I may be his future teammate, and he’s been the team’s star player. I need to respect his feelings even if you don’t have to worry about it.'”
“I recall telling him, ‘Look, I’m 40 and you’re 22, yet you’re the one teaching me about teamwork and leadership.’ He constantly put aside his ego for the advantage of his teammates.”
Throughout the years, Duncan behaved similarly with the franchise regarding transactions. Buford and Popovich consistently ensured that the team’s leading player was included in discussions about possible moves. Buford even confessed that becoming close friends with Tim was the “kiss of death,” as they seemed to trade all of Timmy’s good friends. This started with Cory Alexander, followed by Monty Williams, the coach of the Phoenix Suns, then Malik Rose, and Antonio Daniels.
Duncan never attempted to persuade the higher-ups to retain his friends. Indeed, the situation escalated to the extent where both Popovich and Duncan concurred that the power forward wouldn’t be consulted for his viewpoint when discussing the possible relocation of close friends.
Buford stated, “In his decisions, Tim always prioritized what was best for the team. It was never about his personal interests. The stoic way he approaches life is unique. He has a different perspective on life and the world than most people. It was intriguing to see him assess and evaluate his teammates, new recruits, and opponents through a lens distinct from that of the average NBA player.”
Tim Duncan had a keen understanding of how his words and actions could impact his teammates, regardless of whether they were superstars or role players.
Then, there’s Duncan’s daily presence at the team’s training facility, demonstrating leadership through actions, not words.
Duncan continues to frequent the Spurs’ practice gym on the Northwest side of San Antonio even today. Despite being retired, he regularly sends text messages to the Spurs staff expressing his longing for them and his eagerness to rejoin them in the gym.
On practice courts throughout the NBA, players use a shooting machine known as The Gun every day. This device gathers and returns the ball to the shooter, eliminating the need for a rebounder to retrieve balls. Typically, an assistant or equipment manager is the one who sets up the machine for the players.
Not in San Antonio.
“Timmy was the one to both set up and take down The Gun,” Buford stated. “No other player has ever done that. Typically, they ask the manager to do it. Timmy established that precedent. He didn’t do it verbally, instead, his personality set the tone,” he added.
The team’s facility still strongly resonates with it.
While preparing for Duncan’s induction ceremony, a group of Spurs staff members walked by general manager Brian Wright’s office. To their surprise, they found both of Duncan’s MVP trophies and one of his three Finals MVP awards in a box, covered in dust.
“Who knows where on earth they’ve been?” Buford laughed. “It’s not as if they’re displayed in the center of the house being shined. But if a man that successful stores his trophies somewhere in the back of a closet, gathering dust, then that’s likely where all of ours should be as well.”
CARING: Popovich lost his top two assistants in the summer of 2019 when Ime Udoka (currently a Brooklyn Nets assistant) joined the staff of the Philadelphia 76ers, while lead assistant Ettore Messina returned to Italy with Olimpia Milano.
Duncan, at the time, was finally transitioning into retirement, regularly showing up at his children’s events, and embracing his role as a “real dad,” he has shared with friends.
Yet Duncan quickly gave up that life to join Popovich’s staff as an assistant.
Duncan’s father, William, passed away in 2002. Prior to his death, he had requested Popovich to help keep his son humble, hoping that Duncan would remain unchanged by the fame that came with his success. Duncan has always seen Popovich as a paternal figure and it’s quite usual for the two of them to get together on the anniversary of William’s passing, sharing a beer and engaging in profound conversations.
During the 2019-20 season, Tim Duncan was an assistant coach for the Spurs.
Thus, when Popovich’s main assistants left the team, Duncan decided to stay with his coach, as confirmed by numerous staff members. Upon being asked about Duncan’s decision to join the staff, Buford was visibly moved to tears and chose not to discuss the matter in detail.
Blucas understood.
“Tim was devastated to do it when he was already comfortably at home, able to attend his children’s activities, volleyball games, and constantly do car pickups without having to travel,” Blucas elaborated. “I believe it was his allegiance to Pop and the organization, not guilt, that drove him. It was as though he was saying, ‘I won’t let them struggle without stepping in to help.’ I think it all boils down to Tim Duncan’s character: his loyalty, honor, and gratitude towards those who have supported him.”
Duncan led as a player on the sport’s most competitive stage with this level of caring.
“Babby described his mental image of Tim Duncan as him affectionately patting a teammate on the head as they walk off the court after a timeout. He stated, “You’ve likely witnessed this scene countless times. In my opinion, this embodies everything about him.”
It’s authentic, too.
Blucas had firsthand experience of it as a college teammate of Duncan. He got to know it through lengthy chats and sitting beside Duncan on the bus ride back to the university after their disappointing performance in the power forward’s ACC debut as a freshman against Sharone Wright and the Clemson Tigers.
“Without being ruthlessly determined, you can’t achieve that measure of success,” stated Blucas. “However, he wasn’t one to boast or yell at people. Different superstars exhibit unique leadership styles. Tim will always be the one to offer you comfort before confronting you. That’s simply his nature. He will approach you with gentleness before he exhibits challenge, aggression, competitiveness, anger or intensity.”
Maybe Duncan’s upbringing in the Virgin Islands influenced him, and we might get a glimpse of it in a future Tim Duncan documentary. Scott, Duncan’s older brother, is collaborating with Rashidi Clenance, a childhood friend of the Hall of Famer, to document his early life.
Teammates and players contemplate on the remarkable accomplishments of Tim Duncan.
Scott Duncan claims that the documentary will emphasize the island’s impact on Tim Duncan’s rise. Astonishingly, the typically interview-shy Tim Duncan has already participated in 30-40 hours of interviews.
In many ways, those close to Duncan view the conditions of his enshrinement as nearly perfect.
The spotlight of the ceremony is expected to be dominated by the part where Michael Jordan will present the late Kobe Bryant.
Blucas humorously suggests that Duncan might just give a speech like Bubba Smith’s character in “Police Academy,” simply saying “thanks” and then leaving. But that’s classic Tim behavior.
Buford, Blucas, and Babby are confirmed to attend. On the day of the ceremony, the Spurs will face off against Monty Williams’ Phoenix Suns in San Antonio, marking the first game of a back-to-back set. “I think there’s no way Pop should miss that,” Buford commented. He also added that Duncan’s former teammate Williams should be present.
Anticipate the presence of a Duncan family group, a Wake Forest group, and a conspicuous Spurs representation.
Blucas stated that Duncan perceives his enshrinement ceremony as akin to a family reunion. Duncan sees occasions like the jersey retirements, MVP ceremonies, and even his college Wooden Award as chances to bring together people from various stages of his life. He enjoys having dinner with them all to reconnect and catch up — a sentiment that Blucas believes is incredibly sincere and is what matters most to Tim.
Clearly, he feels deeply honored and holds a high regard for the institution of the Hall of Fame. He cherishes the honor with pride and gratitude. Yet, he remains true to his roots and his achievements, not seeking the spotlight, the public speeches, or a room full of trophies. It’s hard to imagine how such success, wealth, fame, and influence wouldn’t change a person. Yet, astonishingly, he’s the same young lad I met at the age of 17, weighing no more than 200 pounds after a good soaking.
“If he wasn’t 6-11, you wouldn’t be able to recognize that he evolved into who he is now.”
In a touching ceremony, the San Antonio Spurs retired Tim Duncan’s No. 21 jersey.
Of course, Duncan stands in the background one last time at the Mohegan Sun Resort and Casino.
“Babby stated, “He never hogged the limelight.” He continued, “With Kobe’s unfortunate demise and Michael taking the stage, the ceremony’s attention won’t solely be on Tim, and he’s entirely fine with that. Even if Kobe were still alive, he’d receive the majority of the attention. That’s just perfect for Tim. It truly encapsulates his career and his personality.”
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Michael C. Wright is a senior writer for NBA.com. You can e-mail him here, find his archive here and follow him on Twitter.
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