For a long time, the San Antonio Spurs seemed almost “insignificant” in the NBA. A team placed but never winning, at least during its first twenty seasons in the league. A small market in competition with two other Texan formations. Then Tim Duncan arrived. Without ever unleashing the crowds, he, but also his teammates, Gregg Popovichof course, and the leaders have made the franchise a benchmark.
The Spurs played the playoffs 22 seasons in a row from 1997, obviously winning 5 titles. His consistency at the highest level has made him a role model in the four corners of the league. The organization also holds a special place in the hearts of international fans, especially in France thanks to Tony Parker or in Argentina for Manu Ginobili.
Victor Wembanyamhe therefore began his career within an organization that has become quite emblematic in many respects. He can assert himself as the new superstar and the new icon of a team that has known some very, very great players (especially recently). While waiting to find out what his place will be in the history of the Spurs, we have drawn up a top-10 of figures passed by San Antonio.
Please note that these are not the top ten but the “biggest” ten, a dimension that encompasses elements that go beyond the level of play but includes longevity, impact on the franchise, etc.
10- Bruce Bowen
Clearly not the most “beautiful” player to appear in the Spurs Pantheon, but certainly one of the most important of the dynasty! After a tortuous course between France (Le Havre, Evreux and Besançon) and the CBA, Bowen manages to grab the NBA on the side of Miami, Boston and Philadelphia. But it is really at 30, arriving in San Antonio, that the one who was above all a good scorer in Europe, will reveal himself to the eyes of the world.
The suit is different, as Bruce Bowen becomes a defensive specialist with aggression, tenacity and intelligence almost unmatched in the league. Gregg Popovich makes him his favorite watchdog and Bowen is also indispensable thanks to his ability to score from 3 points when the need arises.
As interesting and likeable off the field as he is fierce and hated by his opponents (hello Wally Szczerbiak, victim of a high kick in the face) on the court, the Californian won three championship titles (2003, 2005, 2007) and completed his career as a late bloomer with 5 selections in the All-Defense First Team. His number 12 was retired by Spurs in 2012 although, a few years later, he would agree to loan it to LaMarcus Aldridge.
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2023-07-25 15:02:47
#greatest #players #history
