Parker may play for Charlotte now, but his heart still remains in the Alamo City. On Monday, he uploaded a photo of himself looking up at the Spurs' champion banners, captioning the photo "Emotional & nostalgic." He added hashtags like "family," "home," "alwayslove" and "best fans."
When speaking to reporters ahead of the game, Parker said it "feels good to be home and see familiar faces and all the love from the city of San Antonio."
Many are expecting a warm welcome for Parker, who spent 17 seasons with the Spurs. Fans were shocked, and some heartbroken, about his decision to sign with the Hornets over the summer, but there are no hard feelings for many fans.Tony Parker says walking into ATT Center has been 'very emotional, very nostalgic'..says he never expected to not end career with Spurs, but he's happy to be home..also met with Tim Duncan last night. Said what Big 3/Pop accomplished was 'very special' #KSATsports #KSATnews #NBA pic.twitter.com/oN1jYWgRyx
— RJ Marquez (@KSATRJ) January 14, 2019
"The city loves him," said Patty Mills. "They always have, and vice versa – He's excited about returning."
Last week, Coach Popovich said Parker is "like a son." On Monday, Parker echoed that sentiment and said their friendship goes beyond basketball.
"What we went through together was very special," Parker said. "I will always be grateful for everything he helped me (with) in this league, I’m just very happy to see him today."More Tony Parker...discusses relationship w/coach Gregg Popovich, says he keeps in touch with Manu Ginobili often and WILL attend and speak first at Manu's jersey retirement ceremony on March 28...also shares a message to Spurs fans. #KSATsports #KSATnews #NBA pic.twitter.com/cG6yNm0GuC
— RJ Marquez (@KSATRJ) January 14, 2019
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