NBA: Spurs retire French star Parker's jersey

By Can Erozden

ANKARA (AA) - The San Antonio Spurs retired four-time NBA champion Tony Parker's jersey in a ceremony to honor the French legend on late Monday.

"It's official! Tony Parker's No. 9 jersey will live on in the rafters forever. #MerciTony," Spurs said on their Twitter account, as the ceremony was held at the Western Conference franchise's home court, AT&T Center in Texas.

"San Antonio, it feels great to be home," Parker said.

"San Antonio is always going to be home to me. It’s very important that you know that. Thank you, Spurs fans," he added.

The 37-year-old veteran point guard spent 18 seasons in NBA. He played for Spurs for 17 seasons, helping the franchise win four NBA titles in 2003, 2005, 2007 and 2014.

In Spurs' 2007 title run, Tony Parker was named the Finals MVP, adding a bright accolade to his resume.

Parker ended his career in June.

Parker, along with Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobili, won a total of 701 regular season and playoff games, making them the winningest trio in NBA history.

Six-time NBA All-Star Parker joined the Charlotte Hornets last season. During his NBA career, Parker averaged 15.5 points and 5.6 assists.

Meanwhile, Parker became the 10th Spurs player to have his jersey retired in the Western Conference franchise history.

Spurs pay tribute to their veterans by retiring their numbers as they had honored Bruce Bowen (12), Tim Duncan (21), Sean Elliott (32), George Gervin (44), Avery Johnson (6), Johnny Moore (00), David Robinson (50), James Silas (13) and Ginobili (20) by hanging their jerseys to the rafters.