What It Means:

In the same year that saw Kobe Bryant retire from the Los Angeles Lakers, Dwyane Wade spurn the Miami Heat for the Chicago Bulls, Kevin Durant sign with the Golden State Warriors and LeBron James finally bring a title home to the Cleveland Cavaliers, Duncan's retirement symbolizes the end of a storied chapter in NBA history. For the past 19 seasons, The Big Fundamental has been as much a staple of the game as free throws and slam dunks. His bankers off the top of the glass consistently left defenders in helpless awe, while his defensive wizardry in the paint led the Spurs to 50+ wins every single season he was in the league. Perhaps more than anything else, it was Duncan's approach to the game, and the way with which he embodied the concept of a true consummate athlete, that caused so many to admire and cherish him. Looking ahead, Pau Gasol will likely provide solid fantasy value while replacing Duncan in the frontcourt for San Antonio.

An automatic first ballot Hall of Famer and the beginning of any "greatest power forward ever" discussion, Duncan averaged 19.0 points, 10.8 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 2.2 blocks and 0.7 steals per game for his career on a .507 effective field goal percentage. He was voted Most Valuable Player in the league twice, while also being named Finals MVP in three of his five championships win.