San Antonio Spurs: Tony Parker Seeks To Play 20 Seasons, Join Elite Company
By Cody Daniel
Sustaining a 20-year NBA career is a feat that places one in some rather limited and elite company. So much so, that only four players have endured the two-decade grind in the NBA’s 69-year history – Kevin Willis (21), Robert Parish (21), Kevin Garnett (21), Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (20).
Kobe Bryant is entering his 20th season in 2015-16.
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A certain San Antonio Spur hopes to conclude his career as the latest addition to the iron man list, and it’s not Tim Duncan, who’s now entering his 19th NBA season.
Although there is the slight possibility “The Big Fundamental” laces up his Adidas in 2016-17 for a final run and a place amidst such revered company, it’s Tony Parker with his sights set on 20 seasons, as described in a recent phone interview with Yahoo Sports’ Marc J. Spears.
"“The Spurs know I want to play until I’m 38,” Parker told Yahoo Sports. “That will be 20 seasons for me. That’s my goal. This year is No. 15. And if I’m lucky enough and I’m healthy, hopefully I can play 20 seasons and then I’ll be ready to retire.”"
For the 33-year-old Parker entering his 15th NBA season – all with San Antonio – reaching 20 seasons as a pro would mean holding up for six more grueling seasons, which may be much easier said than done if the nagging injuries that plagued Parker last season persist.
As a result of said injuries – primarily a left hamstring strain – Parker played only 68 games, making 2014-15 the fifth time in the last six seasons the Spurs floor general failed to crack 70 regular season sightings.
But much more noteworthy is the statistical regression that followed, as Parker’s 14.4 points and 4.9 assists per game were the lowest since his rookie efforts (9.2 ppg, 4.3 apg). His 28.7 minutes per game were, in fact, the lowest of his career.
Luckily for Parker, he has four key factors on his side: another loaded Spurs unit headlined by newcomer LaMarcus Aldridge and Kawhi Leonard – although San Antonio’s pick-and-role heavy offense will take a toll in its own right – an improved perimeter touch (.427) to allow Parker to contribute without taking the beating that comes with attacking the paint, a head coach that loves to rest players the counsel, and of course, the counsel of a future Hall-of-Famer and 19-year NBA vet, Steve Nash.
"“I just wanted to see what he was doing and what could be helpful,” Parker said of Nash. “Everybody is different and does different stuff that works for them. But because he was a point guard like me with a great example of longevity who was still great at 38, an All-Star at 38, what did he do to make sure his body was ready?”"
The coming season kicks off a three-year $43.3 million contract Parker will be earning with San Antonio aiming for their sixth NBA title, but he reportedly spoke with Gregg Popovich and general manager R.C. Buford about wanting a career-ending three-year deal once he’s most recent contract concludes.
Considering Parker has been a key cog and perfect compliment to Duncan while aiding San Antonio to four championships, it’s understandable while Parker, the Spurs and the fan base anticipate Parker retiring as a Spur. The only question is, will his body hold up long enough for Parker to do so after 20 seasons?
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