For a boy who was born in Belgium and grew up in France, few expected him to become a NBA player, let alone an All-Star, three-time NBA Champion and Finals MVP. Originally with hopes of becoming a world renowned soccer player, TONY PARKER SPEAKER followed in the footsteps of his father, a former pro basketball player in Europe.

Spurring major college programs in the United States, at 17 years old Parker turned professional playing basketball in the French League. When he decided to make the transition to the United States, success was not guaranteed. He was ironically fortunate when he fell to the San Antonio Spurs who held the 28th pick in the 2001 NBA Draft. Under Head Coach Gregg Popovich, Parker wound up in a perfect scenario joining future hall of famers Tim Duncan and David Robinson.

While in his first year, he settled into the role of backup point guard, but in his second season he flourished. As the starting point guard for all 82 games, the San Antonio Spurs were NBA Champions with Tony Parker at the helm.

The Spurs have continued to remain among the NBA elite and won additional championships in 2005 and 2007. With TONY PARKER SPEAKER taking a larger role following the retirement of David Robinson, he earned MVP honors in the 2007 NBA Finals.

Now married to "Desperate Housewives" actress Eva Longoria, TONY PARKER SPEAKER has ventured outside of his sport, modeling in London Fog ad campaigns with his wife and recording a hip hop album "TP."

San Antonio has become his second home and in addition to donating 20 tickets to every home game to underprivileged youth, he was also made the first ambassador for Make-A-Wish France.

Highlights TONY PARKER SPEAKER :

    * 2007 NBA Finals MVP
    * 3-time NBA Champion
    * 3-time NBA All Star
    * Led France to bronze in 2005 European Championships
    * First ambassador for Make A Wish France
    * Donates a block of 20 tickets to every home game for underprivileged youth
    * Sponsors of TONY PARKER SPEAKER : Nike, SWBC, Pure Cosmetics