San Antonio Spurs star Tim Duncan is calling it a career. The former Demon Deacon announced his retirement Monday, marking the end of an era for the Spurs and the NBA.

Duncan's retirement caps a career that spans 19 seasons, five championships, two MVP awards and 15 All-Star appearances.

Duncan was the Spurs No. 1 overall pick in 1997 after spending four years at Wake Forest University.

He joined Gregg Popovich, Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili to make the Spurs one of the most enduring success stories in modern American sports.

Duncan kept a relatively low profile, and was often overshadowed by more outsized personalities like Kobe Bryant and LeBron James.

But many consider him to be the best forward to ever play, with a game relying on fundamentals over athleticism.

Duncan's retirement comes two months after the Spurs were upset by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference semifinals.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

300x250 Ad

300x250 Ad

Support quality journalism, like the story above, with your gift right now.

Donate