Ranking the top 50 players in NBA history…
8. Tim Duncan
Duncan is the greatest power forward who ever lived.
“The Big Fundamental” epitomized consistency and team success. Drafted No. 1 overall by the San Antonio Spurs in 1997 out of Wake Forest, Duncan played all 19 seasons with San Antonio (1997-2016), averaging 19.0 points, 10.8 rebounds and 2.2 blocks per game for his career.
A 15-time All-Star, Duncan won five championships (1999, 2003, 2005, 2007, 2014), earning three Finals MVPs (1999, 2003, 2005). He secured NBA MVP twice (2002, 2003), Rookie of the Year (1998), and 15 All-NBA selections (10 First Team).
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Leading the Spurs’ dynasty with GOAT coach Gregg Popovich, Duncan’s bank shots and defense anchored San Antonio for years. He was a huge part of multiple Spurs eras; first as David Robinson’s understudy, then alongside Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili, and a bit later, as a mentor to Kawhi Leonard.
He collected eight All-Defensive First Team honors and led the league in rebounds (2002) and blocks (2000, tied).
Retiring with 26,496 points and 15,091 rebounds, Duncan holds multiple playoff records, including the mark for most double-doubles (164).
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Known for humility, Duncan avoided the spotlight despite his immense talent. He was Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2020.
