Tim Duncan Chosen Top Power Forward Of All Time By ESPN

ST. CROIX — Legendary basketball player and native Virgin Islander, Tim Duncan, added another prestigious recognition to his already loaded list. Two days ago, ESPN named Mr. Duncan — the five-time NBA champion, two-time MVP and three-time NBA Finals MVP — the NBA’s top power forward of all time; beating the likes of Karl Malone and Dirk Nowitzki to nab the top spot.

Following the accolade, NBA superstar LeBron James took  to Facebook to congratulate Mr. Duncan, praising the Virgin Islander as one of the most consistent competitors he’s ever faced.

“Don’t know how many times we got left to go against one another but I’ve never have and I never will take them for granted!” wrote Mr. James. “The consistency you’ve shown over the years goes unmatched and as a competitor it’s always a treat to be competing on the same floor as you! Being a professional(professionalism) is so overlooked in our sport but I always knew who I could look to if I ever wasn’t professional about this lovely game and that’s You. From one King to Another and to the Greatest PF to Ever play this game, all Love and Respect Timmy D!”

Mr. Duncan was recently observed by the 31st Legislature with a special honor and recognition for his outstanding professional accomplishments throughout his NBA and international career.

Mr. Duncan, according to a press release issued by Senator Neville James’ office on Sept. 29, 2015, was to be presented with a special perma-plaque to celebrate the honor. Spurs owner Peter Holt and the San Antonio Spurs organization were to be presented with a similar plaque of appreciation as well.

“In 1997, the 23rd Legislature awarded Timmy the Medal of Honor for his exceptional performance while playing for the Wake Forest University Demon Deacons. It is time that we celebrate his outstanding professional career and the fact that he has solidified his place as one of the greatest basketball players in NBA history,” Mr.  James said.

Mr. Duncan has played his entire career with the San Antonio Spurs. He started out as a swimmer and only began playing basketball in ninth grade after Hurricane Hugo destroyed the only Olympic-sized pool on his home here, according to Mr. Duncan’s official Wikipedia page. He soon became a standout for St. Dunstan’s Episcopal High School, and had an illustrious college career with the Wake Forest University Demon Deacons, winning the Naismith College Player of the Year, USBWA College Player of the Year and John Wooden awards in his final year. Mr. Duncan graduated from college before entering the 1997 NBA draft as the number one pick.