LeBron James Says Tim Duncan is the Most Dominant Player of the Last 15 Years

The principal actors from the Miami Heat and San Antonio Spurs met with the press yesterday prior to tonight’s Game 1 of the NBA Finals, and both teams were very complimentary of one another. LeBron James praised Tim Duncan‘s longevity and continued dominance, saying that TD is the League’s most consistently dominant force of the last 15 years. Per ASAP Sports (via EOB): “Q: LeBron, Tim Duncan’s numbers this season are almost identical to what they were in 2007. What do you think it is about Tim Duncan that has allowed him to be so relevant at 37 and to maintain such a high level of his playing? LeBron James: ‘First, I think it’s him staying in shape, his conditioning level. I think it’s the great support that they have in San Antonio. Also I think it’s him being a true professional to the game. Giving everything to the game. And when you give everything to the game, the game rewards you. And I think it’s all of that. He’s a champion. He has championship DNA. And like I said, when you give everything to the game, as far as, you know, sacrifices that you make, the game repays you. It has allowed him to continue to play at a high level, even at his age.’ Q: LeBron, to that end, as a student of NBA history, how do you think Tim will ultimately be regarded in this era as one of the players of this era? How do you think he’ll be viewed? LBJ: ‘Who?’ Q: ‘Tim.’ LBJ: ‘Probably one of the best players to ever play the game of basketball. If I just look at the last 15 years, he’s probably been the most consistent, most dominant player that we’ve had as far as 15 years all together. He’s won four titles, multiple All Stars, MVP, and so on and so on. I think He doesn’t get a lot of recognition because he’s not flashy like a lot of guys are. He’s not jumping over people and high‑flying and doing the things that attracts people to the game. But I think true basketball, true IQ people, players know how great he is. What else can you say?'”