Over the years, the NBA has seen countless superstars who have left an indelible mark on the game. Among them is Tony Parker, the French point guard who spent 17 years dazzling fans in San Antonio, becoming the first European player to win NBA Finals MVP and the Spurs’ all-time leader in assists.
Now retired from professional basketball, the former point guard entered the timeless debate that often arises among fans and players alike—a conversation that has long sought to categorize different athletes as the greatest in NBA history.
In an interview with Sport Bible, Parker didn’t hesitate to share his top four. “Michael Jordan, LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, and Shaquille O’Neal,” he said, listing the players he believes stand head and shoulders above the rest.
Despite forming a legendary trio with Tim Duncan and Manu Ginóbili during his career, and competing alongside and against countless stars, Parker made it clear that in his eyes, no one can match the legacy of his selected Mount Rushmore players.
Tony Parker reacts with Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobili against the Dallas Mavericks in Game Three of the 2010 Western Conference Quarterfinals. (Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
Parker’s all-time starting five of former teammates
In an appearance on the Knuckleheads Podcast, Parker was asked to create his ideal starting five featuring former teammates. Unsurprisingly, co-host Darius Miles preempted two of Parker’s picks, including Duncan and Ginóbili, both obvious choices for the four-time NBA champion.
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Parker completed his lineup by sticking with Spurs royalty. “David Robinson and Kawhi Leonard,” Parker said. “I’m staying with the Spurs”. Robinson played a crucial role in securing San Antonio’s first championship in 1999 alongside Duncan, while Leonard’s unforgettable Finals MVP performance in 2014 delivered the team’s fifth title.
Reflecting the Spurs’ legacy
Parker’s selections underscore the rich history of the Spurs franchise. All five players in his all-time lineup were instrumental in at least one of San Antonio’s five championships.
Duncan, the undisputed leader of the group, holds all five titles, while the contributions of Parker, Ginóbili, Robinson, and Leonard cement their place in Spurs lore.
