Journeyman center Luke Kornet departed from the Boston Celtics in free agency and signed with the San Antonio Spurs on a four-year, $41 million deal. The move from New England to Texas comes with a number change for the backup big man, who traded in his No. 40 jersey with the Celtics for a single-digit replacement, selecting No. 7 with the Spurs.

Luke Cornet is starting a new journey with the San Antonio Spurs. During his first press interaction as a Spurs player on Monday, the former Boston Celtics star explained why he chose to wear No.7. Kornet played the last four seasons in Boston and was part of the Celtics’ 2024 championship team.

But, Duncan didn't wear No. 7—he famously sported No. 21, which has been retired by the Spurs franchise. Kornet explained the reasoning behind his choice, saying that he wants to be "one-third" of the player Duncan was during his NBA career. One-third of 21 is seven—very clever, Kornet.