Report: Spurs expect Duncan to eventually rejoin organization
The Big Fundamental's days of ruling the hardwood in San Antonio are officially over, but that doesn't necessarily mean his presence won't be felt within the Spurs organization ever again.
Many of those working for the team believe Tim Duncan will eventually make his way back to the Spurs in a full-time capacity, according to the San Antonio Express-News' Buck Harvey.
It wouldn't be as a player, though, but rather in a personnel role, as the five-time NBA champion has been fascinated by how management - primarily general manager R.C. Buford and head coach Gregg Popovich - pluck talented players out of obscurity.
Related: Popovich: 'I have a hole in my gut' with Duncan gone
The Spurs will be paying the newly retired big man $1,881,250 in each of the next three seasons after using the stretch provision on the final year of his contract where he was owed $5.6 million.
Drafted first overall in 1997, Duncan suited up for San Antonio in a legendary 19-year-run, being named to 15 All-Star teams, 10 All-NBA First Teams, and eight All-NBA Defensive First Teams.
The Spurs' .710 winning percentage during his tenure is the most successful of any team in the four major sports (NBA, MLB, NFL, and NHL) during that time. His 157 postseason victories are also the second-most in NBA history.