Avery Johnson
The 'Little General' who made the championship-clinching shot and led from the point.
Avery Johnson is a San Antonio Spurs icon known as the 'Little General' for his leadership despite his small stature. He spent seven seasons with the team from 1994 to 2001, serving as an integral part of the 1998–99 squad that won the NBA championship. His defining moment came in Game 5 against the New York Knicks when he made the go-ahead shot with 47 seconds remaining to clinch the title. The franchise retired his number 6 on December 22, 2007, and later inducted him into the San Antonio Sports Hall of Fame on February 20, 2009.
- Role
- Point Guard
- Affiliation
- San Antonio Spurs
- Player Tenure
- 1994–2001
- Status
- Retired Player
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
Johnson's playing career with the Spurs began after he was waived by the Houston Rockets in December 1991. He signed a second stint on November 19, 1992, where he was promoted to starter and averaged 7.5 assists per game. His partnership with David Robinson defined his time in San Antonio, earning him the nickname 'Little General' for his leadership as a point guard. In the 1998–99 season, Johnson played a crucial role on the championship team. The series against the New York Knicks ended with Johnson hitting a jumper with 47 seconds left in Game 5 to secure the victory. This moment cemented his legacy in San Antonio long before he eventually returned as head coach of other franchises.
In Their Own Story
With the series tied and only 47 seconds remaining on the clock, the pressure mounted inside the arena. Avery Johnson received the ball and drove toward the basket. He elevated for a jumper that would decide the franchise's first championship. The shot went in, giving the Spurs the lead they would not relinquish. This clutch performance defined his career as a player in San Antonio. Following this victory, Johnson continued to serve as a veteran leader until his departure in 2001. His contributions were recognized years later when the team retired his number 6 on December 22, 2007.
Reader's Guide
Avery Johnson's time with the Spurs is defined by specific milestones and statistical achievements that highlight his value to the franchise. He arrived in San Antonio in January 1991 after a brief stint with Denver but truly established himself upon returning as a starter in November 1992. During that season, he averaged 7.5 assists and improved his field goal percentage to .502 over 75 games. In the playoffs, his production increased significantly, averaging 8.1 assists per game. The pinnacle of his tenure was the 1998–99 championship run where he delivered the go-ahead shot in Game 5 against New York. His legacy is further honored by the retirement of his number 6 jersey and his induction into the San Antonio Sports Hall of Fame in 2009.
Did You Know?
- Johnson was known as the 'Little General' due to his small stature, leadership skills, and friendship with David Robinson.
- The Spurs retired Johnson's number 6 on December 22, 2007.
- Johnson was inducted into the San Antonio Sports Hall of Fame on February 20, 2009.