His intensity. His work ethic. His intimidation. A big man who could step out and face up, then knock down the jumper.
Kevin Garnett has left a legacy in the NBA like few others. He was as influential on future generations as any big who has come through the sport — he helped change the NBA.
Friday KG made it official, he is retiring. And the tributes came pouring in.
“Kevin Garnett is one of the fiercest competitors our league has ever seen. He held himself to the highest standard of preparation and performance for a remarkable 21 seasons,” NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said. “On behalf of the NBA family, I thank Kevin for his sustained excellence and the enormous impact he’s had on the game.”
“Everything changed the day Kevin arrived in Boston” — Wyc Grousbeck, Boston Celtics owner.
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Always had my back regardless if you was in green or not. Thank you for everything you did.#5 #21 you will be missed pic.twitter.com/G1IB3BMpaw
— Jared Sullinger Sr. (@Jared_Sully0) September 23, 2016
I want to congratulate my brother KG, one of the greatest to ever lace em up....now pick up them golf clubs and let's get it. Love u bro. 😂🏌
— Chauncey Billups (@1MrBigShot) September 24, 2016
#ThankYouKG
— Evan Fournier (@EvanFourmizz) September 23, 2016
You were right, anything is possible... pic.twitter.com/h9Al9FOL1q
— Shabazz Napier (@ShabazzNapier) September 23, 2016
I'll never 4get my rookie yr in the club in Htown.Tryin to Mac to a yng lady. Ticket slapped me in the back of the head and said stop lyin😭😭
— Dorell Wright 🏁 (@DWRIGHTWAY1) September 23, 2016
Congrats to the big ticket on a dope career. 🙏🏾🙏🏾
— Dorell Wright 🏁 (@DWRIGHTWAY1) September 23, 2016
KG, one of the players I always wanted to play with..I always admired his love for the game, talent, and unselfishness.. #top10favplayerever
— 🏁 Jamal Crawford (@JCrossover) September 23, 2016
Kobe, Duncan and now KG.3 Legends that i grew up idolizing and competed against for 7 seasons in the league. #HOF #NBAlegends
— Jonas Jerebko (@JonasJerebko) September 23, 2016
Salute to KG! 21 season as a fierce competitor. Congrats on a great career! pic.twitter.com/LMy8VA2BTv
— Mike Conley (@mconley11) September 23, 2016
If you ever wanna know how hard or intense you're supposed to play, watch KG highlights. #ThanksKG
— Jerian Grant (@JerianGrant) September 23, 2016
The game is losing another great today. 🙏🏾🙏🏾 happy retirement #KG #BigTicket
— Josuélito (@J_Rich1) September 23, 2016