Charlotte Hornets Alumni: Tony Parker gets the ultimate honor

Tony Parker, former Charlotte Hornets guard, had his #9 jersey retired by the San Antonio Spurs in what was an emotional night for the fans.

He was only with the Charlotte Hornets for one season, and looked extremely weird in purple and teal compared to black and silver, but Tony Parker made a massive impact on the franchise during the last season of his legendary NBA career.

After announcing his retirement over the summer, Parker has remained quiet in his post-playing career. He’s spent time with his family, of course, and still owns his own team in France, but Parker returned to the AT&T Center last night, the same place where he spent 17 years of his career.

This time, instead of suiting up to play with or against the San Antonio Spurs, Parker had his #9 jersey raised to the rafters in front of the crowd and his former teammates and coaches. Seeing him back with Gregg Popovich, Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobili put a huge grin on my face.

https://twitter.com/hornets/status/1194074269828993024

Even in his later years of playing with the Spurs, we knew it was only a matter of time for when Parker gets his jersey retired. He’s a first ballot Hall of Famer and accomplished so much with the organization.

For starters, Parker won four NBA Championships with the Spurs, while also winning a Finals MVP in the process. He was named an All-Star six times with the Spurs. He made an All-NBA team four times with the Spurs. He and the Spurs have a truly historic run that won’t be forgotten.

In 17 seasons with San Antonio, Parker averaged 15.8 points, 2.7 rebounds and 5.6 assists. Last season with Charlotte, Parker averaged 9.5 points and 3.7 assists. In his prime, Parker was a top point guard in the NBA and a true winner.

His tear drop was unstoppable, he was masterful in the pick-and-roll and he had the heart of a champion. Parker was and always will be one of my personal favorite players to watch on an NBA court.

I mean, how could you not love Tony Parker? I seriously miss watching him on the court.

His short time in Charlotte may be more of an afterthought to some fans, but his impact on the franchise and his teammates during that season won’t be forgotten. He undoubtedly left a mark, even though he was at the latest stage in his playing career.

Getting your jersey retired is truly a special accomplishment, and I know most Charlotte Hornets fans are proud to have had him represent their team, even if it was for one season. He’s an icon in San Antonio and deserves every bit of this.

#MerciTony. Thank you for all the fun and excitement you provided us fans with during your NBA career.