On This Date In 1998 Tim Duncan Became The Rookie of the Year

Long ago Tim Duncan didn’t have nicknames like “Old Man Riverwalk” or “Old Man Duncan.” When he joined the league in 1997-98 season Duncan was one-half of the “Twin Towers” looking to lead the Spurs to greatness. And after his first season the signs were all there showing he would be the impact player that the Spurs needed to bebome a team to be reckoned with.

The #1 draft pick averaged 21.1 points, 11.9 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 2.51 blocked shots, while shooting 54.9% from the floor. Pretty impressive for any big man and he was a rookie. This solid “fundamental” play lead him to become an All-Star his very first year joining an impressive squad of players. Although the Spurs lost to the Utah Jazz during the Western Conference Semifinals, the next year the team was able to capture their first championship.

During college and those beginning years of his career the “Big Fundamental” was a member of team Swoosh. During that first year he would be known for wearing a few different models but is most known for Total Foamposite Max. Just imagine if the internet and sneakers were as popular as they are nowadays. Duncan might be viewed on with more admiration all around from the sneaker community. Although he’s now a member of adidas, we won’t ever forget the impressive kicks Duncan wore at the beginning and throughout his career.