William Anthony Parker Jr., commonly known as Tony Parker, is a towering figure in the world of professional basketball, most notably remembered for his remarkable tenure with the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA. Drafted 28th overall by the Spurs in the 2001 NBA Draft, Parker quickly established himself as a formidable starting point guard. Over his 17-year NBA career, he won four NBA championships (2003, 2005, 2007, and 2014) and was named MVP of the 2007 NBA Finals, becoming the first European player to earn this prestigious accolade.
Parker was selected for six NBA All-Star games and holds the distinction of being the first foreign-born guard to be named to the All-Rookie First Team. He finished his career ranking ninth in playoff scoring and fifth in playoff assists, underscoring his playmaking ability and offensive prowess. During his time with the Spurs, Parker was a critical component of a team that consistently excelled throughout the 2000s and early 2010s, known for its team-oriented play and defensive strength.
Beyond his success in the NBA, Parker also made significant contributions to the French national team, leading them to victory at EuroBasket 2013 where he was named MVP of the tournament. He subsequently broke the all-time scoring record for EuroBasket, solidifying his status as one of the greatest European players in basketball history.
Post-retirement, Parker has transitioned into ownership and management, becoming the majority owner of ASVEL Basket in France. His commitment to basketball extends to establishing a basketball academy and engaging in various philanthropic efforts, illustrating his dedication to fostering the sport for future generations.