Tony Parker is entering his 15th season in the NBA at age 33 and last year he dealt with injuries for the majority of the season. Add that to the fact that Tim Duncan and Gregg Popovich may be on the verge of retiring soon and you would think that Parker has at least had thoughts of retiring but that is not the case. Parker told Marc J. Spears of Yahoo Sports that he wants to play with the Spurs for 20 seasons which would bring him to 38 years old.
Parker was in the final year of his contract with the Spurs last season but he re-upped with them this offseason on a three year $43 million deal. After that Parker hopes to end his career with another three year deal from the Spurs to make it an even 20 seasons.
"The Spurs know I want to play until I'm 38 that will be 20 seasons for me. That's my goal. This year is No. 15. And if I'm lucky enough and I'm healthy, hopefully I can play 20 seasons and then I'll be ready to retire," said Parker.
The injury question will be the biggest impediment to Parker reaching that goal of 20 seasons as he is getting up there in age and mileage now and has already started to feel the effects. The good news for Parker is that last season was really the first season he dealt with nagging injuries all year yet he still played in 68 games. Parker was not his usual self in those 68 games but he was still a productive player and shot a career high 43 percent from the three point line.
Although Parker dealt with injuries last season he really hasn't had that issue throughout his career as he has only played less than 60 games once in his career and most of the time when he misses games it's because Popovich likes to rest players. The fact that Parker is adjusting his game to his age bodes well for his longevity as he will not have his quickness as he continues to get older so adding a consistent three point shot is necessary.
Kobe Bryant is entering his 20th season with the Los Angeles Lakers and that is the most seasons an NBA player has ever played with one team a mark Parker is trying to tie. Parker has sought advice from two-time MVP Steve Nash who played 19 seasons in the NBA, the last three of which were curtailed by injuries. Parker says that he has learned to treat his body differently now that he's older and to make sure he goes through his routine in order to avoid injuries.
The Spurs are certainly hopeful that Parker can remain healthy for this season as he is a big part of a team they hope can compete for an NBA Championship after improving their roster via free agency. Duncan may be on his way out soon but Parker has no plans of leaving the Spurs any time soon just as long as he is able to play.
