The man known as "Da Kid" when he entered the league, would also be given the nickname "The Big Ticket," and was one of the most influential players of his generation.

The 40-year-old played for 21 seasons, and if had not retired, could have be the first in NBA history to play 22. He has earned more money on the court than any basketball player -- getting 330 million dollars for his more than 50,000 minutes' of play, only the fifth player to reach that mark.

He is also just the third NBA player to score at least 25,000 points, grab 10,000 rebounds, and dish out 5,000 assists. He is the Minnesota Timberwolves all-time leader in points, rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks, as well as the only player in league history to lead a franchise in all five categories.