Tony Parker, who will hit unrestricted free agency in July, has a goal of playing 20 seasons in the league and he’ll look to check that accomplishment off his list regardless of whether or not he spends the rest of his career with the Spurs.
“It is not yet sure that I’ll stay with the Spurs,” Parker said (via Michael C. Wright of ESPN.com). “I am open to all proposals. I would like to make my entire career in San Antonio. The sport remains a business, and we will have to make choices. “
Parker previously indicated that he’s alright with coming off the bench for the Spurs should he return to the team. He was the starter for nearly all of his 17-year tenure in San Antonio before Dejounte Murray took over the gig to begin the 2018 calendar year.
The veteran only suited up for 55 games this past season, posting career-worst marks in points (7.7) and assists (3.5) per game. Part of the decline can be attributed to age and part of it may be health. Parker tore his quadriceps tendon during the 2016/17 and Wright notes that it typically takes two years to recover from that kind of ailment.
“I’m almost back to 100 percent,” Parker said. “There are ups and downs, times when we’re not feeling well. It takes time, and this summer it’s going to be important to do some rehabilitation. We’re always better the second season.”
The veteran point guard made $15.4MM this past season, though it’s unlikely to come anywhere close to that annual figure on his next deal. Spurs GM R.C. Buford told Wright that the team will make a decision on Parker when it comes time too.
“I have been 17 years with the Spurs. I would always be nostalgic, but it’s not the end of the world if I change my club,” Parker said. “I say two or three years more [I can play if] I can go somewhere else, I’m 50-50. I do not see myself outside of basketball yet. I want to stay three more years to do the 20 seasons.”
Kobe Bryant and Dirk Nowitzki are the only players in NBA history to play at least 20 seasons with one franchise.
Indiana would be a great look for him, he gets to go East and start at the point alongside Oladipo.
At this point in their careers isn’t Darren Collison or even Cory Joseph better than Parker?
No way dude, not even close. The amount of leadership Tony would bring to that starting lineup, they would not get rattled like they did against Cleveland with a point guard like Tony out on the floor.
Haha
Why are you on every post with your ridiculous comments? Darren collision is a way better player right now.
He gets a Manu role and dollars, otherwise he can walk. He’s slowed down tremendously, but his veteran smarts make up for a portion of it.
Hes been the same player for 3 years per 36. His shot attempts are down, never was a good 3pt shooter. The Spurs are good bc they have the veteran leadership and have always had depth. He provides both. I think 1 or 2 more years before he hangs it up.
Not the first divorce he would have lol. Memberry Eva Longoria?
Just retire already. Take Manu with you.