Why compare Yao Ming and Tim Duncan?

Yao and Tim Duncan faced each other in several playoff series, with Duncan's Spurs often being a formidable challenge for Yao's Rockets. Their rivalry underscored the competitive nature of the Western Conference during Yao's career.

Yao Ming

Key numbers

  • Points9,247
  • Rebounds4,494
  • Blocks920
  • Games Played486
  • Points per game19.0

Top honours

  • Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of FameInducted in 2016
  • NBA All-Star8 selections
  • All-NBA Team5 selections
  • FIBA Asia Cup MVP3 times (2001, 2003, 2005)
  • CBA ChampionshipWon in 2002 with Shanghai Sharks
VS

Tim Duncan

Key numbers

  • Points per game19.0
  • Rebounds per game10.8
  • Assists per game3.0
  • Blocks per game2.2
  • Field goal percentage.494

Top honours

  • NBA championships5 (1999, 2003, 2005, 2007, 2014)
  • NBA Finals MVP3 (1999, 2003, 2005)
  • NBA MVP2 (2002, 2003)
  • NBA All-Star15
  • NBA All-Defensive First Team12