The Fading Figure of Tim Duncan in 2011

To those who are not in favor of the sports, the name Tim Duncan seems to be unfamiliar. Among those who are really into the game of basketball, however, Tim is superstar by everyone's standard. For the sake strictness and accuracy, he should be described as the superstar of the past.

On April 30, in the arena of Grizzlies in Memphis, the buzzle declared the end of the game, simultaneously declared the end of an era. Besides the crowds thrilled by the excitement of beating Spurs, the best team in the league after 82 games of the season, an exhausted figure dragged his heavy steps to the lock room.

The aging of Tim Duncan does not initiate from the very moment of defeat, instead it dated back to the beginning of season.

Looking at Tim's picture for the first time, people may find the plain-looking face rather unimpressive except for the oxeyes with their extraordinary size. Far beyond the size, the eyes are equipped with wisdom, calmness and persistence.

Nevertheless, through this season, a trace of hesitation and lost can be detected in the oxeyes, which are the last things you expect from the eyes of such a great leader. The hesitation and lost in his eyes does not derive from the fear for the opponents, it lies in the helplessness formed when he was confronted with the aging power of nature.

The 6- feet-11-inch figure used to be strong and thick enough to bear the responsibility of the whole team and the expectations of countless supporters to the team. After 14 years of high-load operation, his body keeps shrinking and weakening even though the height has never cut a single inch. The figure in black and silver jersey lifting up the Larry O'Brien Cup with his head held up in the summer of 2003 fades away in memory. Now what is left is the faltering figure due to the ankle injury disappearing in the crowd.

 The shining star used to hang up high in the sky fell with honor and dignity. Old soldier never die, they just fade away.