Former NBA star Blake Griffin offers rare candor on facing Tim Duncan, revealing how the Spurs legend’s quiet dominance made him both maddeningly frustrating and undeniably legendary on the court—sparking deeper reflection on why Duncan’s subtle brilliance still echoes as one of basketball’s most defining forces of all time.
For San Antonio Spurs fans, the name Tim Duncan is timeless. Selected No. 1 overall in the 1997 NBA Draft, Duncan spent his entire 19-year career with the franchise, becoming the ultimate symbol of consistency and excellence. Even after retirement, he continues to capture attention for his changed look.
Recently, on the Post Moves Show, former NBA star Blake Griffin reflected on what made Duncan both incredibly frustrating to face and deeply respected by his peers. Griffin recalled how Duncan had a unique style that made opponents underestimate him before he punished them on the court.
“Timmy just had this way about him that he disarmed you, and then he’d go out and just cook; it was so frustrating, but he was so awesome. Honestly, it was an honor,” Griffin said.
With the Spurs, Duncan won five championships, three NBA Finals MVPs, and two Regular Season MVPs. Remarkably, he never missed the playoffs nor endured a losing season during his career.
Blake Griffin Recalls First Encounter With Tim Duncan
Griffin also shared a personal memory of the first time he crossed paths with Duncan. He recalled a pregame shootaround early in his career when Duncan’s trademark move caught his attention.
“This was like pregame, you know, early, when you have your shooting time. I’m warming up, make a shot, and I turn around. I look to the other end, just kind of glance down there, and Tim Duncan’s like doing his bank shot. I kind of stopped. My coach had to be like, ‘Blake, what are you doing?’” Griffin said.
Duncan, the man with a luxurious car collection, remains celebrated as the greatest power forward in NBA history. For players like Blake Griffin, simply sharing the court with him was a lasting honor.
