With five championships and a consistent presence in the playoffs, the San Antonio Spurs have been a force to be reckoned with for over two decades. With a reputation of possessing a pedigree of excellence, here is a tribute to the best players to suit up for the legendary franchise.
Tim Duncan: The Greatest Spur of All Time
Tim Duncan is widely considered the greatest Spur of all time. The 6’11” center spent his entire 19-year career with the Spurs, leading the team to five championships and earning two NBA MVP awards. Duncan was a 15-time All-Star, 15-time All-NBA selection, and 15-time All-Defensive team selection. He ranks first in franchise history in points, rebounds, blocks, and games played. But what truly sets Duncan apart is his leadership and selflessness. He was the heart and soul of the Spurs and led by example both on and off the court.
David Robinson: The Admiral’s Legacy
David Robinson, also known as “The Admiral,” is another legend in Spurs’ franchise history. The 7’1″ center spent his entire 14-year career with the Spurs, leading the team to two championships and earning one NBA MVP award. Robinson was a 10-time All-Star, 10-time All-NBA selection, and 8-time All-Defensive team selection. He ranks second in franchise history in points, rebounds, and blocks. Robinson’s impact on the Spurs goes beyond his impressive statistics. He was a role model both on and off the court and helped establish the culture of excellence that the Spurs are known for today.
George Gervin: The Iceman Cometh
George Gervin, also known as “The Iceman,” is a Spurs’ franchise legend from the early days of the team. The 6’7″ shooting guard played for the Spurs from 1974-1985, leading the team to the playoffs six times and earning four scoring titles. Gervin was a nine-time All-Star and five-time All-NBA selection. He ranks third in franchise history in points and steals. Gervin was known for his smooth shooting stroke and ice-cold demeanor on the court, earning him the nickname “The Iceman.” He helped establish the Spurs’ winning culture and laid the foundation for the team’s future success.
Manu Ginobili: The Argentinian Assassin
Manu Ginobili is a fan favorite and one of the greatest players in Spurs’ franchise history. The 6’6″ shooting guard played for the Spurs from 2002-2018, leading the team to four championships and earning two All-Star selections. Ginobili was a two-time All-NBA selection and a one-time Sixth Man of the Year. He ranks fourth in franchise history in points and assists. Ginobili was known for his fearless style of play and clutch performances in big moments. He was a key part of the Spurs’ success in the 2000s and will always be remembered as one of the greatest players in franchise history.
Tony Parker: The French Connection
Tony Parker is another fan favorite and one of the greatest players in Spurs’ franchise history. The 6’2″ point guard played for the Spurs from 2001-2018, leading the team to four championships and earning six All-Star selections. Parker was a three-time All-NBA selection and a one-time Finals MVP. He ranks fifth in franchise history in points and assists. Parker was known for his lightning-fast speed and ability to get to the rim.
Honorable mentions
- Kawhi Leonard: The Klaw helped lead the Spurs to their fifth championship in 2014 and won two NBA Defensive Player of the Year awards before being traded to the Toronto Raptors.
- Sean Elliott: The small forward played for the Spurs from 1989-2001, helping the team win their first championship in 1999.
- Bruce Bowen: The small forward played for the Spurs from 2001-2009, earning eight NBA All-Defensive team selections and helping the team win three championships.
