NBA News: Spurs legend Tony Parker reveals his All-Time starting five of former teammates

When discussing the storied history of the San Antonio Spurs, Tony Parker’s name is inseparable from the franchise’s success. Alongside Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobili, Parker formed the “Big Three” that powered the Spurs to four of their five NBA championships.

During a recent appearance on the Knuckleheads Podcast, Parker was asked to craft his ideal starting five made up of former teammates. Darius Miles, the podcast’s co-host, didn’t wait for Parker’s selections and preemptively included Duncan and Ginobili on the list, knowing they were automatic picks for the French guard. To round out his team, Parker stayed loyal to the Spurs. “David Robinson and Kawhi Leonard,” Parker said. “I’m staying with the Spurs”.

Robinson was instrumental in the Spurs‘ first-ever championship in 1999 alongside Duncan, while Leonard was pivotal in securing the franchise’s most recent title in 2014, earning Finals MVP honors in the process.

Parker’s lineup reflects the rich history of the Spurs, with each of the five players winning at least one championship with the franchise. Duncan leads the pack, boasting all five of San Antonio’s titles, while the legacy of the “Big Three” will forever be etched into the organization’s DNA.

Tim Duncan #21 of the San Antonio Spurs calls a timeout as Tony Parker #9 and Manu Ginobili #20 look on against the Oklahoma City Thunder. (Tom Pennington/Getty Images)

The early struggles of the ‘Big Three’

Despite their eventual dominance, the early days of Parker’s partnership with Duncan and Ginobili weren’t without challenges. Early in their careers, rumors swirled that Parker wasn’t passing the ball to Ginobili enough, creating tension among fans and the media.

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Parker addressed the controversy during Ginobili’s jersey retirement ceremony in 2019. “Before I start, I want to clarify something with Argentina — well, with the Argentine media. Manu and I had a rough start when I began my career. All of Argentina was mad at me because they said I never passed the ball to Manu. And I never understood that anger because Popovich designed the plays,” Parker said, jokingly recalling the early criticism.

Parker’s bold prediction about Wembanyama

Tony Parker and current Spurs sensation Victor Wembanyama share unique ties despite their differences in playing style and physique. Both hail from France, played for ASVEL Basket, and eventually found their way to San Antonio.

Parker, who has followed Wembanyama’s progress closely, didn’t hold back when asked about the young star’s potential. “His rookie season was unbelievable,” Parker said. “His second year has been amazing so far, and I think he should be an All-Star. And I think in two years, yeah, I think he’s going to be the best player in the NBA”.