Humble, hard-working Tim Duncan followed unorthodox path to Hall of Fame

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 physically unfit newcomer vomits after a workout session with the retired basketball player, Tim Duncan.

Duncan immediately rushed over to clean up the mess.

Recently, Spurs CEO R.C. Buford recounted an incident from a local Mexican restaurant’s vacant patio. “Once the cleanup was done, Timmy told Lonnie, ‘Get back on the court. We have work to do,'” he recalled. “On that day, Timmy was in the gym, training with Lonnie, who was unfit after a long absence due to a meniscus tear which made him miss the initial eight weeks of the season. Tim hadn’t even started coaching then. However, if Tim Duncan is there tidying up your mess, it’s quite a powerful message.”

Adding just one more to his two decades’ worth of contributions in a 19-season NBA career, Duncan significantly contributed to the creation of the San Antonio Spurs’ culture. This culminated in his induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame on Saturday.

“Everyone is aware of the story and it’s indeed true, which is quite phenomenal,” said Gregg Popovich, the coach of Spurs. “We’re all delighted about it. We continue to toast him at dinner, saying ‘Thank you, Timmy.’ It’s evidently special,” he added.

The reality is that encapsulating Duncan’s career into words or an extensive analytical piece is unfeasible. We are already aware of his staggering statistics, his five championships, two MVPs and 15 All-Star games. Not to forget that upon his retirement in 2016, Duncan was ranked second in playoff wins, first in playoff double-doubles, and third in postseason rebounds.

According to Elias Sports Bureau, the 15-year gap between Duncan’s first (1999) and last (2014) titles is the second longest in the league’s history. It stands behind Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s record of 17 years, considering players who participated in both NBA Finals series.

It is understood that only Duncan and John Salley in the history of the NBA have won titles in three different decades. Furthermore, Duncan is the first inductee into the Hall of Fame to have played his entire career of at least 15 seasons under the same coach.

Duncan, Tony Parker, and Manu Ginobili hold the record for the most playoff victories (126) by any trio in NBA history, according to the Elias Sports Bureau. They also hold the record for the most regular-season victories (575). Additionally, they are the first trio or more to achieve four championships together since Magic Johnson, Abdul-Jabbar, Michael Cooper, and Kurt Rambis. These achievements are unforgettable.

Duncan expressed, “My competitiveness, passion for the game, aversion to losing, and an organization’s commitment to provide the best resources for its city, team, and players like me to consistently win, all contribute to the situation.”

Though, the explanation of how Duncan achieved everything ventures into more complex territory.

Remember, despite Duncan’s nearly impeccable skills, he was never known for his extraordinary athleticism. His former Wake Forest teammate and good friend, Marc Blucas, humorously states that “both he and I would admit that he couldn’t jump over a phone book.”

A deeper look into the life of Tim Duncan can shed light on the journey of a skinny kid from the U.S. Virgin Islands who aimed to be an Olympic swimmer. However, Hurricane Hugo in 1989 destroyed all local pools, redirecting his path to basketball. He took the NBA by storm, not only raising the stature of the then unproven coach Popovich but also uplifting an entire NBA franchise. The key to his success lay in the simple yet vital character traits instilled in him by his parents, Delysia Ione and William Duncan, in their home on the 82-square-mile island of St. Croix in the Caribbean.

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 had a softening effect on them,” Buford clarified. “It stopped being so strict and unyielding. The bond between Pop and Tim also fostered a nurturing atmosphere,” he opined.

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, the most under-hyped of the three recruits from Wake Forest’s 1993 class, anticipated redshirting during his freshman year.

Marc Blucas, a longtime friend of Tim Duncan, shares a laugh with him and Grant Hill in 2014.

After playing only one session of pickup ball with Duncan, Blucas and fellow senior captain Randolph Childress quickly came up with a new plan.

“You could instantly recognize it,” Blucas stated. “He immediately played as if he was part of the team. He was exceptionally balanced yet fiercely competitive simultaneously. I vividly remember turning to Randolph Childress and declaring, ‘We need to inform Coach Dave Odom not to redshirt this youngster.’ We promptly went to him and relayed the information.”

Blucas was deeply impressed by Duncan, who started in 32 out of 33 games as a freshman at Wake Forest. Their one season together, with Duncan as the power forward, had a significant impact on him.

“He said, “I was curious about his background – the lessons, morals, and everything he brought into the game. After spending some time with him, I expressed my desire to see what shaped him as a person. I told him, ‘I really want to visit St. Croix for a week or so to understand how it all began.'”

Thus, Blucas booked a trip to the island after graduation.

Blucas now finds the Lonnie Walker IV vomit story hilarious as it reminds him of a similar incident during their visit to St. Croix. This incident highlighted Duncan’s sharp and humorous wit, qualities that are beneficial in dealing with the long and challenging NBA season.

“Such a typical Tim thing to do,” commented Blucas. “He’d do one of the most modest things imaginable, then follow it up with an unexpected humorous remark or tell you to toughen up, get back in the game and start playing. It’s as if he’s saying, ‘Alright, you vomited. I took care of it. Let’s move on.'”

While snorkeling on a sunny summer day in St. Croix with Duncan, Blucas accidentally stepped on a sea urchin, inadvertently creating his own story reminiscent of Lonnie Walker’s.

“Blucas said, “It’s stinging like hell.”

Thus, upon their return to the beach, Duncan explains with composure, “Hey, you have to urinate on it.”

Blucas said, “I joked with Island Boy, ‘You won’t trick me, the kid from the landlocked white town, into believing that peeing on my own foot will ease the pain.'” He added, “Tim then seriously told me, ‘I’m not joking. It’s excruciating. I’ve tried it. The acid and pH of the urine actually alleviate the pain. You should urinate on it.’ I responded, ‘But, I don’t need to urinate.’ He looked at me with a wide grin and said, ‘Well, I do.'”

Telling the story, Blucas bursts into laughter.

He said, “I basically told them to get lost. There’s no way you’re going to make me do this. I thought it was nonsense.” However, it wasn’t nonsense. I did end up relieving myself on my foot and it felt much better. But it’s so similar to Lonnie’s story. It’s about not being too serious with yourself. It’s about having a sense of humor. There’s a nice balance of, ‘We’re going to work really hard, and that’s what everyone is expected to do. So, let’s enjoy ourselves while doing it. Let’s genuinely be friends.'”

The character of Tim, Pop, and their entire group is largely intentional, I believe. The drafting process is built around the superstar and their leadership abilities. The Spurs draft individuals who are inspired to witness the so-called superstar being scolded by Pop or even cleaning up someone else’s vomit. This makes them think, ‘I need to pull my weight because he’s going beyond what’s expected of him.’

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 has set a standard for the rest of the franchise to follow with his numerous displays of professionalism over the years.

Even before drafting him, the Spurs saw other examples.

Despite Buford’s opinion that Duncan could have been the first overall pick as a sophomore or possibly even as a freshman, he chose to stay at Wake Forest for all four years. His decision to complete his education at Wake Forest was driven by a promise he made to his mother to graduate. Additionally, Duncan wanted to fully embrace the college experience and support his teammates.

“Tim was all about the experience, the journey, the camaraderie in the locker room,” Blucas explained. “If it wasn’t about that, he wasn’t interested. Winning was important to him, but the friendships and the shared moments with his teammates were his motivation for playing the game. He was someone who preferred to relish the current moment, rather than constantly planning for the future,” he added.

During the pre-Draft process, Popovich learned a lot firsthand.

“Buford remarked, ‘Pop was eccentric, believing we should draft Scot Pollard.’ However, when the decision was made to select Duncan as the No. 1 overall pick, Popovich immediately scheduled a trip to the Virgin Islands to spend time with Duncan.”

“Buford discussed how he learned about the significance of Tim’s family in his life, particularly his mother who passed away when Tim was only 14. He mentioned how Popovich shared personal stories from his own past, something he seldom does now. Buford believes that the two really got to know each other. Upon returning, Popovich didn’t reveal much but confirmed that Tim was a wonderful person whom they would enjoy embarking on this journey with,” he said.

Popovich instantly recognized the unique attributes in Duncan.

“His high intelligence and sense of humor were immediately apparent,” said Popovich. “He was deeply committed to the game, with winning being his sole concern. His company was enjoyable. Those were the qualities that struck me during our time together.”

What Popovich couldn’t have anticipated is the profound depth of it all.

Before Duncan made his NBA debut, his ex-agent, Lon Babby, who subsequently served as an executive in the Phoenix Suns’ front office, acknowledged that he swiftly gleaned a significant lesson from the power forward.

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, who also represented Hall of Fame inductee Tamika Catchings, recalled their conversation. “I was talking to Tim and I told him, ‘My responsibility is to represent you. Therefore, I can’t concern myself with David’s perspective on this matter.'” Babby stated. “To which Tim responded, ‘I may have to worry about it because I’m going to be his teammate. He’s been the star of this team and I need to consider his feelings as I come in.'”

“I recall telling him, ‘Look, I’m 40 and you’re 22, yet you’re teaching me about teamwork and leadership.’ He was always ready to put his ego aside for the benefit of his team.”

Over the years, Duncan maintained a similar approach towards the franchise in terms of transactions. Buford and Popovich made it their priority to include the star player of the club in any talks concerning potential necessary moves. Buford even confessed that becoming good friends with Tim was like a kiss of death, as they seemed to trade everyone Timmy was close to. This began with Cory Alexander, followed by Monty Williams, the coach of Phoenix Suns, and then Malik Rose and Antonio Daniels.

Duncan never attempted to persuade the team’s management to retain his friends. Indeed, the situation escalated to the point where both Popovich and Duncan concurred that when it came to potentially relocating close friends, the team would not even seek the power forward’s viewpoint.

“Buford stated, ‘In each decision, he would simply embrace what was most beneficial for the team at that moment. He consistently prioritized the team’s interests over his own. The stoic approach that Tim applies to life is quite distinct from others. His perspective on life and his environment deviates from the majority. It was always intriguing to observe his unique analysis and evaluation of teammates, new players, and opponents, which drastically differed from the standard NBA player perspective.'”

Tim Duncan was acutely conscious of how his words and actions could impact his teammates, regardless of whether they were superstars or role players.

Then, there’s the everyday Duncan at the team’s training facility, leading through actions, not speeches.

Duncan still frequents the Spurs’ practice gym on the Northwest side of San Antonio to this day. Although retired, he regularly messages the Spurs staff expressing how much he misses them and his eagerness to rejoin them in the gym.

On practice courts throughout the NBA, players make use of a shooting machine known as The Gun every day. This device collects and returns the ball to the shooter, eliminating the need for a rebounder to retrieve balls. Typically, an assistant or equipment manager is responsible for setting up the machine for the players.

Not in San Antonio.

“Timmy was the one to set up and take down The Gun, all by himself,” Buford explained. “No other player has ever done that. They typically rely on the manager for both tasks. That’s the standard Timmy established. He didn’t do it verbally, but his personality communicated this tone.”

The team’s facility still echoes with it loudly.

While the Spurs were beginning preparations for Duncan’s induction ceremony, a group of staff members walked past the office of general manager Brian Wright. To their surprise, they found two of Duncan’s MVP trophies and one of his three Finals MVP awards in a box, covered in dust.

“Who can tell where on earth they’ve been?” Buford chuckled. “They’re not exactly on display in the middle of the house. But if a man that successful stows his trophies away in a dusty closet, that’s likely where all of ours should be too.”

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.

During that period, Duncan was finally transitioning into retirement, frequently attending his children’s events and being a fully committed father, as he’s 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 entrusted Popovich with the responsibility of making sure his son remained humble, even amidst the fame and glory of his career. Duncan has always viewed Popovich as a paternal figure. In fact, it’s quite common for them to gather for a drink and profound discussions on the anniversary of William’s death.

During the 2019-20 season, Tim Duncan was an assistant coach for the Spurs.

Therefore, when Popovich’s main assistants decided to leave the team, Duncan didn’t want to leave his coach alone, as reported by several staff members. When asked about Duncan joining the staff, Buford was overcome with emotion and chose not to discuss the subject in detail.

Blucas understood.

“Tim found it extremely difficult to make the decision, particularly considering he was already at home, able to attend his kids’ activities and volleyball games, and handle car pickup without constantly being on the road,” Blucas clarified. “I believe it was his unwavering loyalty to Pop and the organization that motivated him. It wasn’t a feeling of guilt, but rather a sense of, ‘I won’t let them struggle without joining the fight.’ I think it was tied to his personal values as Tim Duncan, the person: 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 said, “When I picture Tim Duncan in my mind, I see him affectionately patting a teammate on the head as he walks off the court after a timeout. You might have witnessed this scene countless times. To me, that image embodies everything about him.”

It’s authentic, too.

Blucas witnessed Duncan’s experiences firsthand as his college teammate. He shared in-depth dialogues with Duncan and was right by his side on the bus ride back to campus after they both suffered a defeat in Duncan’s ACC debut as a freshman. They had been up against Sharone Wright and the Clemson Tigers, where they played as power forwards.

“Firstly, you cannot achieve such success without being a go-getter,” said Blucas. “But he didn’t flaunt his success or berate others. Each superstar has their own unique leadership approach. Tim is the kind of person who would offer comfort and support before confronting you. That’s simply his nature. He would approach you with affection before imposing challenge, aggression, competitiveness, anger or intensity.”

Maybe Duncan’s upbringing in the Virgin Islands played a part in his character, something we may all get to see in a future documentary about him. Duncan’s older brother, Scott, and his childhood friend, Rashidi Clenance, are collaborating to document his early life.

According to Scott Duncan, the documentary will shed light on how the island influenced Tim Duncan’s rise to stardom. In a surprising turn of events, Tim Duncan, who typically avoids interviews, has already completed 30-40 hours of interviews.

Many people close to Duncan view the circumstances of his enshrinement as nearly perfect in many respects.

The spotlight is expected to be dominated by the part of the ceremony where Michael Jordan will present the late Kobe Bryant.

Blucas humorously suggests that Duncan might just get on stage and deliver the Bubba Smith speech from “Police Academy.” He would simply say, “thanks,” and then exit. But that’s just typical Tim.

Buford, Blucas, and Babby are set to attend. The Spurs are scheduled to play against Monty Williams’ Phoenix Suns in San Antonio on the day of the ceremony, which is the first game of a back-to-back set. Buford expressed that Popovich should definitely be there and Duncan’s former teammate, Williams should not miss it either.

Expect a representation from the Duncan family, a group from Wake Forest, and a strong presence from the Spurs.

According to Blucas, Duncan perceives his induction ceremony as a kind of family gathering. He considers all these occasions, from having his jersey retired, receiving MVP awards, to winning the Wooden Award in college, as chances to bring together people from various stages of his life. His wish is to dine with everyone and spend time catching up. This, Blucas says, is what truly counts for Tim and there is a purity in it.

Clearly, he is deeply honored and holds great respect for the institution of the Hall of Fame. He takes pride in the recognition and is thankful for it. However, he remains genuine and true to his roots, not getting swayed by the spotlight, speeches or the trophy room. It’s beyond my comprehension how such success, wealth, fame, and influence doesn’t change a person. But he’s still the same young man I met when he was just a 17-year-old, weighing only 200 pounds.

“If he wasn’t 6-11, there would be no indication of the person he eventually became.”

Of course, Duncan is standing in the background one last time at the Mohegan Sun Resort and Casino.

“Babby commented, ‘He has never been one to hog the limelight.’ Referring to the tragic demise of Kobe and Michael’s role in presenting him, he added, ‘The ceremony’s focus won’t be on Tim, and that doesn’t bother him in the least. Even if Kobe was still alive, he would be the center of attention, which suits Tim perfectly. It’s a reflection of 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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