Tony Parker has been one of the best players in Spurs history, helping them win 4 championships while earning a Finals MVP awards and getting 6 all star nods. But after 17 years, the marriage is over. There has been much speculation as to what led Parker to leave the only NBA franchise he has ever played for but the answer is much more simple than the rumors would imply. Tony Parker just wants to play.
In speaking with Jeff Garcia of Spurs Zone, Parker highlighted that San Antonio offered him the same deal as the Hornets so money wasn’t an issue. The Spurs however, wanted him to function in more of an assistant coach role and Parker still wants to play significant minutes which he will have the opportunity to do as Kemba Walker’s primary backup in Charlotte.
Parker also added that playing for Michael Jordan, whom he idolized growing up, was a factor in his decision as well. He said, “And when Michael Jordan called me, my idol, I thought, let’s go. For me, I feel like closing the loop, to finish my career in his club, it’s something special for me because it’s him that made me want to play basketball.”
Parker’s time in San Antonio has not been without its hiccups. In 2010, he allegedly slept with then teammate Brent Barry’s wife which led to his divorce from Eva Longoria. And as recently as last year he made some controversial comments regarding Kawhi Leonard during his lengthy exodus from the team. Despite these instances, there has definitely been more good than bad for Parker in Alamo City.