Popovich knows that underestimation and cockiness lead to fast and reliable playoff exits. He demands accountability from his players, and treats excuses like convicted felons. He gives annual lessons in how to manage veterans nearing retirement. He yells mercilessly at some players (see Parker, Tony) because he believes greatness emanates from hard work and tough love.

The Spurs have been great with Duncan or Robinson, but never perfect. No one would accuse the Spurs of producing choir boys, but, no one who watches them can argue the professionalism and class with which the organization operates.

There are too many Spur memories for me to expound upon—Sean Elliot's "Memorial Day Miracle," Robinson's 72-point performance, Avery Johnson's locker-room feud with Terry Porter, watching the Spurs defeat the Detroit Pistons in Game Seven live, watching the Mavericks overthrow the Spurs the next season in a Game Seven live, ".4," The Steve Kerr-led comeback against the Mavs, Johnson's classic championship celebration speech, rife with trash talk ("Did the Utah Jazz win the NBA championship? Hell no!"), and Manu Ginobili's series of 40-point games last season—so I will spare anxious readers.

Just know that I never had to support both the Rockets and Spurs. I choose to fanatically follow two division rivals because the Spurs continue assembling teams I can proudly watch.

What will happen to this team and me supporting it when Duncan leaves is anyone's guess. Who cares? With the Spurs positioned to contend for at least three more years, I give you my all-time San Antonio team.

You will note there are few players from 1970s and early 80s. I have not watched hardwood classics from the Gervin era as much as I have with the Rockets, so my knowledge is less sound. Tim Duncan remains my favorite athlete in any sport, so it should not surprise anyone that most of these players wore Spurs uniforms during some part of his ongoing tenure.

Starting Lineup

PG: Avery Johnson (1991; 1992-1993; 1994-2001)

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