Tim Duncan

He was drafted in 1997 and immediately caused an impact, averaging 21.1 points per game his first season. The 1999 season was shortened because of a strike, but when the season began in February, Duncan began to help his team win the franchise's first world championship. They beat the New York Knicks in five games to become champions. Duncan then participated with the United States national team in the Championship of The Americas[?] in Puerto Rico, helping them qualify for the 2000 Summer Olympics. However, a knee injury forced him to stay out of the Olympics.

In the 2001-2002 season, Duncan was named the league's MVP, joining teammate David Robinson as Spurs members who have earned such award. After 2002-2003, Duncan was named MVP for the second season in a row. Duncan and his Spurs teammates made it all the way to the NBA finals, where they beat the New Jersey Nets 88-77 in Game Six to once again win the NBA's world championship. Duncan was named Finals' MVP as well. His lifetime averages in points, blocks, assists, and rebounds are higher in the playoffs than in the regular season.

Duncan scored 53 points in an NBA game on December 26, 2001 in a home game against the Dallas Mavericks.

Career totals

• Points: 10,324
• Rebounds: 5,548
• Assists: 1,447
• Blocks: 1,129

Per game averages

• Points: 22.9
• Rebounds: 12.3
• Assists: 3.2
• Blocks: 2.5