Tony Parker celebrates 43: An NBA idol and his legend live on!

Tony Parker celebrates 43: An NBA idol and his legend live on!

Lyon, Frankreich - On May 18, 2025, Tony Parker celebrated his 43rd birthday. On the occasion of this special day, fans and the organization of the San Antonio Spurs paid tribute to the former Point Guard. Parker is considered one of the most outstanding characters in the history of the NBA and was a central part of the Spurs, which decisively shaped his career. He won a total of four NBA championships over an impressive career of more than 17 seasons.

Parker was selected in 2001 as 28th pick in the NBA draft by the San Antonio Spurs after playing in France for Paris Basket Racing. His immediate influence was remarkable: in his rookie season, he scored 9.2 points, 4.3 assists and 2.6 rebounds per game. He led the team into assists and steals, which already pointed out his enormous potential.

influential career

In the following years, Parker continued his impressive development. In the 2002-03 season, he made a significant contribution to winning their first NBA championship and was appointed MVP of the NBA Finals in 2007-an award that made him the first European player who received this title. His style of play, shaped by speed and basketball IQ, redefined the role of the Point Guard and inspired many subsequent players.

In the course of his career, Parker was chosen six times as the NBA All-Star and also left a lasting legacy in basketball. He ended his time at the Spurs in the 2017-18 season before playing the Charlotte Hornets for the last season, where he officially ended his career in 2019.

away from the field

Parker is not only known for its sporting success. He has also been involved in various areas, including the establishment of a basketball academy in Lyon and various business projects, including participation in the French basketball club LDLC ASVEL. Parker is also active in charity, including as an ambassador for Make-A-Wish France, where he donated tickets for disadvantaged young people.

His private life was also of interest. Parker was married to actress Eva Longoria from 2007 to 2011 and in 2014 married journalist Axelle Francine, with whom he had two sons. He also published a French hip-hop album and is involved in various media projects.

After being involved in an incident in 2012, which injured him, Parker showed great character by recovering in time for the Olympic Games. His deep connection with France is also evident in his commitment to the application of Paris for the 2012 Olympics.

Parker remains an inspiring figure for numerous basketball players and fans worldwide, and his influence on the game will be noticeable for a long time.