SAN ANTONIO ? David Robinson took the spotlight one last time for the San Antonio Spurs.

After the Spurs’ 87-78 victory over Utah Monday night, Robinson’s No. 50 jersey was hung from the rafters of the SBC Center.

“This is a moment you always dream of, but never think will come,” he said. “It’s overwhelming. It’s awesome.”

The 38-year-old Robinson was credited early in his career with keeping the franchise in San Antonio. He helped the Spurs win their second NBA title last season in his final game.

“This is my final farewell,” he said. “This has been a wonderful journey.”

When the black shroud was lifted from the white jersey, the fans cheered and began to chant Robinson’s name.

The Spurs have retired only three other numbers in their 30 years of existence — James Silas’ No. 13, George Gervin’s No. 44 and Johnny Moore’s No. 00.

In his 14-year pro career, all with the Spurs, Robinson averaged 21.1 points and 10.6 rebounds. He holds team records for games (987), points (20,790), rebounds (10,497), blocked shots (2,954) and steals (1,388).

He was the NBA’s MVP in 1995 and voted among the league’s top 50 all-time players.

Monday’s ceremony included a 15-minute video tribute.

Film director Penny Marshall, clad in a Spurs hat and No. 50 jersey, mock-sobbed that she no longer would be able to ogle Robinson’s bulging biceps.

“I’m going to miss those arms,” she said. “Kevin Willis has good arms, but not like yours, baby.”

Jay Leno passed along his regrets. “Sorry I can’t be there,” he apologized. “Some of us have real jobs.”

Robinson doesn’t yet have a new job, and he’s in no hurry to get one. He’s spending most of his time with wife Valerie and their three sons.

He’s also doing some work at the Carver Academy, a private school that he founded in a disadvantaged San Antonio neighborhood with $10 million of his own money.

Last week, he started a ministry at a local Christian church.

“If they come to hear the word because of that, I don’t care,” Robinson said. “One of my rules is that I don’t sign autographs at church, and people are pretty good about that.”

Rev. Max Lucado, pastor at Robinson’s church, said Robinson was inspiring in his ministry.

“He’s going to help out our basketball team quite a bit,” he said.