The ‘Big Three’—remember this legendary San Antonio Spurs trio? From 2002 to 2016, Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, and Manu Ginóbili ran the NBA like a well-oiled machine, becoming a dominant force in the league. Their chemistry was reminiscent of the Bulls’ 1995 trio, creating a dynasty of their own. Over the years, they forged a bond built on respect and brotherhood. But for Tony Parker, earning that respect wasn’t easy. He had to prove himself, and eventually, he did. Even Hall of Famer Kevin Garnett admires how Tony fought for his place in that legendary lineup.
On a recent episode of the ‘Knuckleheads’ podcast, Parker took a trip down memory lane to his rookie year, the first time he met Duncan. Back then, Tony was just a fresh-faced kid coming into the league, while Tim was already a beast on the court. Duncan wasn’t about to waste time on a rookie, and Tony knew it. But little did Tim know, Tony was destined for greatness. And he made sure Tim saw it too. Recalling that moment, Parker said, “The first time I saw Timmy, I was like, man, I was kind of impressed, obviously… I knew I had to earn his respect if I ever wanted a chance to be the point guard on the team.”
Kevin Garnett couldn’t ignore that kind of honesty and hunger. He grabbed a clip from the podcast and shared it on Instagram, showing love for Parker’s mindset. But it was Kevin’s caption that stole the show. He didn’t hold back in giving Tony his love, writing: “Shout to Tone Parker. Like thatRESPECT BRO @toneparker09.” Man! it’s a legend recognizing a legend. How cool is that?
Through that video, it is clear that Kevin knows exactly what it takes to reach the top. And, more importantly, what it takes to stay there. After all, he has been there, at the top, dominating the league himself. As of 2025, he remains one of only five NBA players to win both the MVP and Defensive Player of the Year awards. And in 2020, he cemented his legacy with a spot in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. That’s why KG isn’t just a legend on the court, he’s one-off it too.
But here’s something you might not have thought about. Tony wasn’t the only one with a Big Three legacy. Kevin was part of a legendary trio too, just with a different team. Any guesses?
Kevin Garnett from “Legendary Trio”
For many NBA fans today, the idea of a Big Three started in 2008 when the Celtics pulled off a fascinating move. They brought in Ray Allen and Kevin Garnett to join Paul Pierce. But Boston had been here before. Back in the mid-80s, Larry Bird, Kevin McHale, and Robert Parish ran the show, winning three championships. This time, it was Pierce, Garnett, and Allen’s turn to cement their names on the walls of the Celtics.
Assembled in 2007 by Celtics president Danny Ainge, their intent was very clear, bring a championship back to Boston. And in 2008, they did just that. They broke a 22-year drought by taking down Kobe Bryant and the Lakers in the NBA Finals. Pierce walked away with Finals MVP honors, but Kevin’s elite defense was just as crucial.
Kevin Garnett wasn’t just a piece of the puzzle for the Celtics. He was the heart and soul of that Celtics squad. The fire was on full display when Kevin screamed, “Anything is possible!” after securing the championship. And if you connect all the dots, then you will find why his legacy, both as a Celtic and an NBA icon, remains untouchable.
The post Tony Parker’s ‘Earning Respect’ From Tim Duncan Message Finds Admirer in Kevin Garnett appeared first on EssentiallySports.