Tim Duncan says he will not retire, will play 19th season for Spurs

Author Photo
Sporting News Logo

Tim Duncan isn't done yet. The Spurs legend plans to return for his 19th season, he told the San Antonio Express-News on Thursday.

Duncan was part of the Spurs contingent making its pitch to free agent LaMarcus Aldridge on Wednesday, and the big man said he also discussed his own status with coach Gregg Popovich.

"Finally had a chance to talk with Pop; I'll be on court next year," Duncan told the Express-News.

The 39-year-old, picked first overall in the 1997 NBA Draft, undoubtedly would love to team with Aldridge in the frontcourt. That became more likely Wednesday when the Spurs dealt Tiago Splitter to the Hawks, helping clear cap space. San Antonio also retained Kawhi Leonard and Danny Green, securing a strong nucleus heading into 2015-16 no matter what Aldridge decides.

Duncan is averaging 19.5 points and 11 rebounds per game over the course of his long career.

Author(s)