AFTER 19 seasons, five NBA championships and two MVP awards, Tim Duncan’s No. 21 jersey was raised to the rafters of the AT&T Center on Sunday night, officially immortalizing “The Big Fundamental” as one of the greatest players in San Antonio Spurs history.

    “To all of you in here, the fans, all of San Antonio — thank you,” Duncan said. “The love and support is overwhelming, especially over the last couple weeks.

    “I got so much more from you guys. From my teammates, from these guys over here (group of ex-teammates and coaches), than they can explain that they got from me, and I know that.”

    The soft-spoken superstar addressed his family, ex-Wake Forest coach Dave Odom and Spurs general manager R.C. Buford before thanking Gregg Popovich, who he played under for all 19 of his seasons.

    “Thank you coach Pop, for being more than a coach. For being more like a father to me. Thank you.”

    Duncan did not retire with much, or any, fanfare. Unlike fellow icon Kobe Bryant, there were no season-long farewell tours. Instead, Duncan assessed his options after the 2015-16, made his decision, and had the Spurs announce his retirement for him. He didn’t even address the media — that role fell to head coach Popovich, who said a few affecting words on the team’s practice court in mid-July.

    Duncan finally got a more formal goodbye Sunday night. The ceremony featured comments from teammates Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili, coaches Dave Odom and Popovich, and Duncan himself. Throughout it all, one thing became clear — that everyone who had the pleasure of working with Duncan found him not just a legendary player, but a special person, teammate, and friend.

    The event began roughly 30 minutes after the final buzzer as master of ceremonies Sean Elliott introduced Parker, who provided the funniest jokes of the night and plenty of memories of the way Duncan pushed him to be great when he arrived in San Antonio as a 19-year-old rookie.

    (SD-Agencies)