Tim Duncan is one of the greatest power forwards in NBA history, and his mentor-mentee bond with Gregg Popovich is among the league’s most successful partnerships.

The story behind Duncan 'pranking' Popovich traces back to a humorous pre-draft moment.

Before the 1997 NBA Draft, Popovich, then Spurs GM, visited Duncan in the Virgin Islands for scouting.

Duncan was still at Wake Forest, and Popovich wanted a closer look at the presumed No.1 pick.

During one outing, they went fishing together.

Duncan pretended to fall into the water, startling Popovich who feared something had happened to the future franchise cornerstone.

Moments later, Duncan swam back up—the fall was just a harmless prank.

Rather than being upset, Popovich appreciated Duncan’s humor and personality even more.

The Spurs selected Duncan first overall in 1997, a decision that reshaped the franchise.

Duncan played 19 seasons in San Antonio, winning five championships, and his bond with Popovich became an NBA legend.