Wednesday, May 28, 2008

Quick Rant: Tim Duncan

I have been an NBA fan for a long time, basically since the end of the Pistons dynasty and the beginning of the Bulls.

In my opinion, Tim Duncan is the greatest power forward of all-time. Now, if you put Bill Russell in today's game - he would most likely be considered a power forward, but in his day he was a center, so that is where he should be. Also, Duncan has the size to be considered a center as well, but for most of his career he has always played next to a center, whether that be David Robinson, Rasho Nesterovic or Frabricio Oberto.

Duncan is probably the most fundamentally sound player in the NBA, even earning the nickname "The Big Fundamental" from Shaquille O'Neal. He has led the Spurs to four NBA championships in 1999, 2003, 2005 and 2007.

I have been watching the playoffs, on and off, and two things that have really been bugging me about Tim Duncan is this: he shows absolutely no emotion and he complains on every play.

Basketball to Duncan appears to be a job. I would love for a reporter to ask him if he actually enjoys playing the game. It's obvious he is excellent at it, so of course he does it - and makes a ton of money doing it. But on a few occasions last night, when his teammates made a strong play or whatever, they showed emotion (screaming, chest bumps, etc.) - Duncan did not.

And the most annoying thing, Duncan complains on every play. For as good as he is, he thinks he must be even better. If he misses a shot - he must have gotten fouled. If he commits a foul - he didn't even touch him. It's disgusting really - and in my opinion truly tarnishes his legacy. Sure, star players complain about calls - but not every single one.

You've been in the league forever, Tim. You have four championships, plus I am sure a couple more in your future. You can go down as arguably the best power forward in NBA history. Stop complaining - or at least put a smile on your face.

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