"The Big Fundamental", Tim Duncan, is considered one of basketball's all-time greats. His 19-year NBA career was spent entirely with the San Antonio Spurs, where his dominance helped secure numerous championships. Duncan's legacy is cemented by his 2020 induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and his place on the NBA's 75th Anniversary Team.
The NBA started officially tracking blocked shots as a statistic in 1973. This is relevant to Duncan's achievement as the first player with 500 playoff blocks, as blocks from before the 1973-74 season are not included in official records.
Tim Duncan was born on April 25, 1976.
In 1987, David Robinson was drafted by the San Antonio Spurs as the first overall pick. This laid the groundwork for the future "Twin Towers" partnership with Tim Duncan.
Tim Duncan's Sister, Tricia, represented the U.S. Virgin Islands in swimming at the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul.
In 1989, Hurricane Hugo destroyed the only Olympic-sized pool in the U.S. Virgin Islands, forcing Duncan to swim in the ocean. This, coupled with a fear of sharks, diminished his passion for swimming.
On April 24, 1990, the day before Tim Duncan's 14th birthday, his mother passed away due to breast cancer.
Tim Duncan aspired to compete in swimming at the 1992 Olympic Games.
Tim Duncan started his college basketball career at Wake Forest University in 1993. Initially facing challenges, he became a key player for the Demon Deacons.
In 1994, during his sophomore year, Tim Duncan was recognized as a top NBA prospect. However, he chose to continue his education at Wake Forest.
In his sophomore year, in 1994, Tim Duncan showcased his skills and was recognized as a top prospect for the NBA. He also represented the U.S. at the Goodwill Games.
Between 1995 and 1997, Tim Duncan earned numerous accolades in the ACC, including two ACC Player of the Year awards and three NABC Defensive Player of the Year awards. He was also consistently recognized for his performance in the ACC Tournament and on the All-ACC Teams.
In 1995, Tim Duncan began his senior year at Wake Forest, leading the team despite losing key players to the NBA.
In 1995, during his Junior year at Wake Forest, Tim Duncan led the Demon Deacons to the ACC Championship, showcasing his dominance against future NBA player Rasheed Wallace.
The San Antonio Spurs, with their dominant home-court advantage, tied the 1995-96 Chicago Bulls' record for the second-longest home winning streak in NBA history with 44 consecutive victories at home.
In 1996, Tim Duncan's final season at Wake Forest saw the arrival of future NBA player Loren Woods. Despite early success, the team faced challenges and was eliminated in the NCAA tournament.
The 1996-1997 season saw the San Antonio Spurs struggle with injuries, notably to David Robinson, leading to a disappointing 20-62 record. This set the stage for a potential turnaround with the upcoming draft.
Despite being projected as a top pick, Tim Duncan chose to stay in school for his senior year in 1996, prioritizing education over immediate NBA entry.
In 1996, Tim Duncan continued his reign as a dominant force in college basketball, leading Wake Forest to the ACC Finals.
In 1996, Tim Duncan achieved a historic feat by leading the ACC in scoring, rebounding, field goal percentage, and blocked shots—the first player in conference history to do so. This exceptional performance earned him the Most Valuable Player award in the ACC Tournament.
On January 12, 1997, Tim Duncan showcased an outstanding performance with 26 points and 14 rebounds in a win against Duke.
On January 24, 1997, Tim Duncan led his team with 16 points, 15 rebounds, and 5 blocks in a victory against Clemson.
After graduating with a degree in psychology, Tim Duncan declared for the 1997 NBA Draft. This marked the beginning of his professional basketball career.
By 1997, Tim Duncan had cemented his place in Wake Forest and ACC history. He finished his college career as the all-time leading rebounder in the NCAA's post-1973 era and the all-time leading shot-blocker in ACC history with 481 blocks. He was also third on the ACC career rebounding list with 1,570 rebounds.
In 1997, Tim Duncan concluded his college basketball career with high honors and widespread recognition. He received recognition from the House of Representatives and was named ACC Male Athlete of the Year, a testament to his impact beyond the court.
In 1997, Tim Duncan was the first overall pick in the NBA draft, selected by the San Antonio Spurs, and went on to win the NBA Rookie of the Year award.
Tim Duncan's professional basketball journey began in 1997 when he was selected as the first overall pick by the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA Draft.
Tim Duncan received recognition for his basketball prowess when he was chosen as one of the final two players for the United States national team slated to compete in the 1998 FIBA World Basketball Championship.
Tim Duncan experienced his first NBA playoff run in 1998. Despite a shaky start against the Phoenix Suns, he showcased his resilience and talent, helping the Spurs secure a 3-1 victory. The Spurs' journey ended in the second round against the Utah Jazz, the eventual Western Conference champions.
The 1997-1998 NBA season witnessed the formation of the iconic "Twin Towers" duo, with Tim Duncan joining forces with David Robinson. Their formidable defense near the basket quickly earned them recognition. Duncan's impressive rookie season, including consistent monthly awards and All-Star selection, solidified his place in the league. He averaged 21.1 points, 11.9 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 2.5 blocks per game.
Despite a challenging start to the lockout-shortened 1998-1999 season, Tim Duncan, along with David Robinson, rallied behind Coach Gregg Popovich, leading the Spurs to an impressive 31-5 finish. Duncan averaged 21.7 points, 11.4 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 2.5 blocks during the regular season, earning him places on both the All-NBA and All-Defensive First Teams.
During his time in the NBA, which included a significant period around 1998, Tim Duncan solidified his status as a basketball legend. He achieved numerous accolades, including being named MVP twice (2002 and 2003), securing five NBA championships, and receiving three NBA Finals MVP awards.
After winning his first championship in 1999, Tim Duncan's remarkable skills and contributions to the San Antonio Spurs earned him recognition as a valuable player. Despite this, his understated playing style, focused on effectiveness and consistency, led some to label him as "boring."
During his time in the NBA, which included a significant period around 1999, Tim Duncan solidified his status as a basketball legend. He achieved numerous accolades, including being named MVP twice (2002 and 2003), securing five NBA championships, and receiving three NBA Finals MVP awards.
In 1999, Tim Duncan achieved a historic milestone, leading the San Antonio Spurs to their first-ever NBA championship. Duncan's stellar performance throughout the playoffs, especially his dominance in the Finals against the New York Knicks, earned him the Finals MVP award. His contributions were crucial in overcoming challenges, including a scoreless third quarter in Game 3, and ultimately securing the championship in a thrilling Game 5 finish.
In 1999, Tim Duncan got his first opportunity to represent the United States on the international stage as a member of the Olympic Qualifying Team.
Tim Duncan continued his dominance in the 1999-2000 NBA season, averaging an impressive 23.2 points, 12.4 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and 2.2 blocks per game. His performance earned him recognition on both the All-NBA and All-Defensive First Teams.
Despite a strong regular season, the San Antonio Spurs faced a setback in the 2000 NBA Playoffs. Tim Duncan's meniscus injury, sustained just before the end of the regular season, prevented him from playing in any postseason games. The Spurs were eliminated in the first round by the Phoenix Suns with a 3-1 series score.
Despite his eagerness to compete in the 2000 Sydney Olympics, Tim Duncan faced a setback when a knee injury prevented him from participating in the Olympic Games.
During his time in the NBA, which included a significant period around 2000, Tim Duncan solidified his status as a basketball legend. He achieved numerous accolades, including being named MVP twice (2002 and 2003), securing five NBA championships, and receiving three NBA Finals MVP awards.
In 2000, Tim Duncan's accomplishments and character earned him the Virgin Islands Medal of Honor, the highest honor bestowed by the Virgin Islands territorial government.
In 2000, the San Antonio Spurs experienced a disappointing first-round exit in the NBA playoffs, marking their earliest exit since 2000. The team faced challenges with an aging roster and Duncan's ongoing knee issues.
In July 2001, Tim Duncan married Amy Sherrill, marking a significant personal milestone.
In the 2001 NBA season, Tim Duncan maintained his high level of play, averaging 22.2 points, 12.2 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2.3 blocks per game. His performance earned him spots on both the All-NBA and All-Defensive First Teams. The Spurs navigated through the playoffs, overcoming the Timberwolves and Mavericks but falling to the formidable Los Angeles Lakers, led by Shaquille O'Neal and Kobe Bryant, in a challenging four-game series.
In 2001, Tim Duncan founded the Tim Duncan Foundation, a testament to his dedication to giving back to the community.
In 2001, Tim Duncan's exceptional performance earned him both the IBM Player Award and the Sporting News (TSN) MVP Award.
During the 2001-2002 season, Tim Duncan achieved career-high averages in scoring (25.5 points per game) and rebounding (12.7 boards per game).
Between 2001 and 2002, the Tim Duncan Foundation demonstrated its commitment to important causes by raising over $350,000 for breast and prostate cancer research, solidifying Duncan's reputation as both a talented athlete and a compassionate individual.
During his time in the NBA, which included a significant period around 2002, Tim Duncan solidified his status as a basketball legend. He achieved numerous accolades, including being named MVP twice (2002 and 2003), securing five NBA championships, and receiving three NBA Finals MVP awards.
In 2002, Tim Duncan was named the NBA's Most Valuable Player. However, the San Antonio Spurs were eliminated by the Los Angeles Lakers in the playoffs.
The San Antonio Spurs started playing at the SBC Center in 2002. Tim Duncan had a standout season, averaging 23.3 points and a career-high 12.9 rebounds per game, earning him his second NBA Most Valuable Player Award.
Tim Duncan signed a seven-year, $122 million contract with the San Antonio Spurs on July 16, 2003. With David Robinson's retirement, Duncan assumed the role of the team's leader.
During his time in the NBA, which included a significant period around 2003, Tim Duncan solidified his status as a basketball legend. He achieved numerous accolades, including being named MVP twice (2002 and 2003), securing five NBA championships, and receiving three NBA Finals MVP awards.
In 2003, Tim Duncan played a key role in the USA basketball team, leading them to qualify for the 2004 Summer Olympics with ten wins.
The San Antonio Spurs won the NBA Championship in 2003, defeating the New Jersey Nets. This marked the final season of David Robinson's career, who retired after a remarkable run.
Despite a slight statistical dip, Tim Duncan and the San Antonio Spurs were determined to reassert their dominance in the 2004-2005 season.
In 2004, the USA basketball team, including Duncan, faced setbacks at the Summer Olympics, taking home the bronze medal after experiencing losses. This marked a significant moment for the team, highlighting unexpected challenges on their journey.
Tim Duncan battled plantar fasciitis throughout the 2005-2006 season, leading to a decrease in his statistical output.
During his time in the NBA, which included a significant period around 2005, Tim Duncan solidified his status as a basketball legend. He achieved numerous accolades, including being named MVP twice (2002 and 2003), securing five NBA championships, and receiving three NBA Finals MVP awards.
The San Antonio Spurs clinched the NBA Championship in 2005 by defeating the Detroit Pistons. Tim Duncan was named the NBA Finals MVP for a record-tying third time.
On February 18, 2006, Tim Duncan received significant recognition for his basketball prowess when he was named one of the "Next 10 Greatest Players" on the tenth anniversary of the NBA's 50th Anniversary All-Time Team.
Despite a strong showing against Dirk Nowitzki in the 2006 playoffs, Tim Duncan and the San Antonio Spurs were defeated by the Dallas Mavericks in a seven-game series.
During his time in the NBA, which included a significant period around 2007, Tim Duncan solidified his status as a basketball legend. He achieved numerous accolades, including being named MVP twice (2002 and 2003), securing five NBA championships, and receiving three NBA Finals MVP awards.
During the 2007-2008 playoffs, the San Antonio Spurs, led by Tim Duncan, faced off against the Phoenix Suns in the first round. The Suns, eager for revenge after losing to the Spurs in previous playoff runs, put up a tough fight. However, the Spurs emerged victorious, winning the series 4-1.
In 2007, Tim Duncan led the San Antonio Spurs to their fourth NBA championship, sweeping the Cleveland Cavaliers in the Finals. This marked Duncan's fourth championship title, solidifying his place as a dominant force in the league. Despite his stellar performance throughout the playoffs, he received only one vote for the Finals MVP.
During the 2008 NBA All-Star Weekend, Tim Duncan participated in the Shooting Stars Competition as part of the San Antonio team. The team won the competition, showcasing Duncan's skills and competitiveness even in a more relaxed All-Star setting.
During the 2008-2009 season, Tim Duncan was diagnosed with chronic knee tendinosis. This diagnosis came after a noticeable decline in his performance on the court. Despite this setback, Duncan continued to play and contribute to the Spurs.
In the 2008 NBA playoffs, the San Antonio Spurs, led by Tim Duncan, reached the Western Conference Finals but were defeated by their rivals, the Los Angeles Lakers. This marked another setback in the Spurs' quest for back-to-back championships, despite Duncan's consistent performance throughout the playoffs.
During his time in the NBA, which included a significant period around 2009, Tim Duncan solidified his status as a basketball legend. He achieved numerous accolades, including being named MVP twice (2002 and 2003), securing five NBA championships, and receiving three NBA Finals MVP awards.
In 2009, Tim Duncan's remarkable basketball career earned him a spot among the game's greats when Slam magazine ranked him 8th on their list of the top 50 NBA players of all time.
In recognition of his outstanding college basketball career, Tim Duncan was inducted into the Wake Forest Sports Hall of Fame in 2009.
In the 2009-2010 season, the Spurs underwent roster changes to provide Tim Duncan with a more reliable supporting cast. The team experienced a mixed start to the season but improved significantly due to Duncan's strong double-double performances.
On January 21, 2010, Tim Duncan was selected as a starting forward for the Western Conference in the 2010 NBA All-Star Game. This selection highlighted his consistent excellence and impact on the court even at 34 years old.
On November 30, 2010, Tim Duncan achieved a significant milestone by recording his third career triple-double in a game against the Golden State Warriors. This achievement showcased his versatility and all-around skills on the court.
During his time in the NBA, which included a significant period around 2010, Tim Duncan solidified his status as a basketball legend. He achieved numerous accolades, including being named MVP twice (2002 and 2003), securing five NBA championships, and receiving three NBA Finals MVP awards.
In the shortened 2011-2012 NBA season, the San Antonio Spurs once again secured the top seed in the Western Conference, showcasing their consistency and dominance. During the playoffs, Tim Duncan made history by surpassing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's record for most career blocks in playoff history.
The San Antonio Spurs had a remarkable start in the 2011 season, achieving one of the ten best starts in NBA history. Despite this strong start, their season ended with a disappointing upset in the first round of the playoffs against the Memphis Grizzlies.
On March 24, 2012, prior to a game against the Philadelphia 76ers, Spurs coach Gregg Popovich made a lighthearted gesture by listing Tim Duncan on the official scorecard as "DNP-OLD." This humorous act poked fun at Duncan's age while acknowledging his veteran status and the need for occasional rest.
On May 31, 2012, during Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals, Tim Duncan etched his name in the NBA record books by surpassing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to become the all-time leader in playoff blocks. This achievement further solidified his defensive prowess and impact on the game.
On July 11, 2012, Tim Duncan re-signed with the San Antonio Spurs, marking another chapter in his illustrious career with the team.
During his time in the NBA, which included a significant period around 2012, Tim Duncan solidified his status as a basketball legend. He achieved numerous accolades, including being named MVP twice (2002 and 2003), securing five NBA championships, and receiving three NBA Finals MVP awards.
In August 2013, Tim Duncan and his wife, Amy Sherrill, went through a divorce.
On December 2, 2013, Tim Duncan etched his name in the NBA record books by becoming the oldest player to achieve a 20-point, 20-rebound game. He achieved this feat against the Atlanta Hawks, adding a game-winning jump shot to his impressive performance.
By 2013, Tim Duncan had already achieved a remarkable milestone, leading the charts in postseason point-rebound double-doubles, further solidifying his reputation as a dominant force in the NBA.
Tim Duncan decided to stay with the San Antonio Spurs for the 2014-15 season by exercising his player option, worth $10.3 million.
On November 14, 2014, during a game against the Los Angeles Lakers, Tim Duncan reached the impressive milestone of 25,000 career points, becoming the 19th player in NBA history to achieve this.
The San Antonio Spurs, led by Tim Duncan's veteran presence, achieved a remarkable feat during the 2014-15 season by winning 30 consecutive regular-season games at home, setting a new franchise record.
In 2014, the San Antonio Spurs, led by Tim Duncan, dominated the NBA Finals, defeating the Miami Heat with a 4-1 victory. This win marked a record margin for wins in the NBA Finals. This victory also marked Duncan's fifth NBA championship title.
During his time in the NBA, which included a significant period around 2014, Tim Duncan solidified his status as a basketball legend. He achieved numerous accolades, including being named MVP twice (2002 and 2003), securing five NBA championships, and receiving three NBA Finals MVP awards.
Tim Duncan's consistent scoring prowess was on full display on February 19, 2015, as he surpassed Alex English to secure the 16th position on the NBA's all-time scoring list during a game against the Los Angeles Clippers.
On July 9, 2015, Tim Duncan put pen to paper on a two-year contract with the San Antonio Spurs, extending his tenure with the only NBA team he had ever played for.
In a testament to his loyalty and the San Antonio Spurs' winning culture, Tim Duncan achieved an NBA record on November 2, 2015. He participated in his 954th victory with the Spurs, surpassing John Stockton's previous record of 953 wins with the Utah Jazz.
By the end of his final season in 2015, Tim Duncan had established himself as one of the most consistent players in NBA history. His impressive record for point-rebound double-doubles solidified his place as a dominant force in the league.
In 2015, Tim Duncan sued his former investment advisor, claiming over \$20 million in losses.
On January 2, 2016, Tim Duncan experienced an unusual occurrence in his career. He was held scoreless for the first time in 19 seasons. This game snapped his streak of 1,359 consecutive games with at least one point.
Tim Duncan made the decision to opt into his $5.6 million contract with the San Antonio Spurs for the 2016-17 season, indicating his intention to continue his playing career.
On July 11, 2016, Tim Duncan officially announced his retirement from the NBA after an illustrious 19-season career, all spent with the San Antonio Spurs.
Following his retirement as a player, Tim Duncan transitioned into a coaching role with the San Antonio Spurs, indicating his continued commitment to the team's success.
In September 2016, Tim Duncan's former investment advisor was indicted on two counts of wire fraud related to a lawsuit Duncan filed, alleging over $20 million in losses.
The San Antonio Spurs paid tribute to Tim Duncan's legendary career by retiring his No. 21 jersey in a special ceremony on December 18, 2016. This honor solidified his legacy as one of the greatest players in franchise history.
In April 2017, Tim Duncan's former investment advisor pled guilty to wire fraud in the case where Duncan sued him for over $20 million in losses.
In August 2017, The Tim Duncan Foundation partnered with BlackJack Speed Shop to organize and provide much-needed supplies to the victims of Hurricane Harvey, demonstrating a commitment to helping those in need.
In 2017, Tim Duncan and his girlfriend celebrated a new addition to their family as they welcomed their first child together.
In June 2018, Tim Duncan reached a $7.5 million settlement with his former investment advisor whom he sued in 2015 for over $20 million in losses.
On July 22, 2019, Tim Duncan transitioned from player to coach as the San Antonio Spurs announced his new role as assistant coach.
On March 3, 2020, Tim Duncan stepped in as acting head coach for the San Antonio Spurs, marking his debut in the coaching role.
In March 2020, as the COVID-19 pandemic began, Tim Duncan showed his generosity by offering to pay for airline tickets for college students in the U.S. Virgin Islands so they could travel home.
On April 4, 2020, Tim Duncan reached the pinnacle of basketball recognition when it was announced that he would be inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.
On November 12, 2020, Tim Duncan made the decision to step down from his position as assistant coach of the San Antonio Spurs.
In 2020, Tim Duncan was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, a testament to his illustrious career.
In 2021, Tim Duncan's legacy in basketball was further cemented when he was named to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team, a testament to his enduring impact on the game.
Tim Duncan received another prestigious honor in 2021 when he was named to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team.
In 2022, as part of the NBA's 75th-anniversary celebrations, The Athletic recognized Tim Duncan's impact on the game by ranking him the ninth greatest player in NBA history.