In a recent podcast appearance, former NBA All-Star Blake Griffin offered a tribute to one of the game’s most understated legends: Tim Duncan.
While Griffin’s career was defined by explosive athleticism and highlight-reel dunks, his early encounters with Duncan left a lasting impression, not because of flashy plays, but because of Duncan’s quiet, calculated brilliance.
“Timmy just had this way about him that he disarmed you,” Griffin said. “And then he’d go out and just cook. It was so frustrating, but he was so awesome. Honestly, it was an honor.”
Griffin’s comments came during an episode of Post Moves with Candace Parker and Aliyah Boston, where he recounted his “Welcome to the NBA” moment, facing Duncan early in his rookie season. While some veterans made it a point to intimidate newcomers, Duncan’s approach was subtler. He’d crack a joke during a box-out, flash a knowing smile, and lull opponents into a false sense of ease, before dismantling them with textbook footwork and bank shots.
“He kind of rolled his eyes and said, ‘Not you again,’” Griffin recalled. “It was disarming. You still wanted to compete, but you couldn’t help but admire him.”
Tim Duncan joking with Blake Griffin at the free throw line is such a cool ‘welcome to the NBA’ moment 🤣 pic.twitter.com/Burm2UW6Bi
— Post Moves with Candace Parker & Aliyah Boston (@PostMovesShow) August 20, 2025
Duncan’s legacy is built on substance over style. Five NBA championships, two MVPs, and 15 All-Star selections, all achieved with a calm demeanor and a relentless commitment to fundamentals. For Griffin, who entered the league as a high-flying phenom, Duncan represented the opposite end of the spectrum: a player who dominated without theatrics.
Their first matchup came in November 2010, when Griffin was still adjusting to the pace and physicality of the league. Griffin finished with 17 points and 8 rebounds; Duncan with 14 and 7. But the stat line wasn’t what stuck, it was the experience.
Griffin’s reflection is more than nostalgia, it’s a lesson in humility. In an era where flash often overshadows fundamentals, Duncan’s quiet excellence remains a benchmark for greatness. And for Griffin, being schooled by “Timmy” wasn’t a slight, it was a privilege.
“You want to go hard at everybody,” Griffin said. “But Tim just made you stop and appreciate the craft. That’s rare.”
