Spurs retire No. 21 following Duncan's speech
"Thank you, San Antonio. Thank you."
— NBA TV (@NBATV) December 19, 2016
Tim Duncan expresses his gratitude to fans before his jersey is retired. https://t.co/C24fl0mc5M
The San Antonio Spurs officially retired No. 21 in honor of Tim Duncan.
Following Sunday's win over the New Orleans Pelicans, the club celebrated the recently retired big man's legacy, which includes five championships, three Finals MVPs, and two league MVPs over the span of 19 years.
Former teammates Manu Ginobili and Tony Parker, as well as head coach Gregg Popovich, were among those who spoke about the 40-year-old future Hall of Famer.
TD returned the favor by thanking them, management, his family, and fans before flexing his self-deprecating humor.
He also shared this video message:
"It gave me back more than I could have ever excepted." - Tim Duncan on the game he loves#ThankYouTD pic.twitter.com/a5KdHMslQd
— San Antonio Spurs (@spurs) December 19, 2016
To the surprise of no one, Duncan singled out the Spurs coach.
"Thank you coach Pop for being more than a coach," he said. "For being like a father to me, thank you."
The duo embraced and walked off together at the conclusion of the event.