Manu Ginobili of the San Antonio Spurs has decided to make one more run for basketball immortality. As if he needs one more to cement his legacy. The Argentine superstar is currently in the process of finalizing a deal that would allow him to return to the San Antonio Spurs for at least one more season.
Unfinished business, the reason behind Manu Ginobili's return?
One of the most successful international players to suit up for an NBA team, Manu Ginobili brings achievements that remain unparalleled by any other NBA player. With a resume including 4 NBA championships, 1 Olympic Gold medal, 2 All-NBA team selections, 2 NBA All-Star appearances, 1 NBA Sixth Man of the Year award, 1 EuroLeague championship, 1 EuroLeague Finals MVP, 2 FIBA Americas Gold medals, and 1 FIBA Americas MVP, Ginobili should be a shoe-in for the Basketball Hall of Fame.
And yet, Manu Ginobili, who turns 40-years-old next week, still wants to compete at the highest level, seemingly unsatisfied with his current achievements.
Or maybe, losing to the eventual NBA champions, the Golden State Warriors, in last year’s Western Conference Finals left a sour taste in his mouth. Already without Tony Parker, the San Antonio Spurs was in the process of destroying the Dubs on the road when the unthinkable happened: a devastating injury Kawhi Lenard, the team’s undeniable superstar, derailed their championship run. Who knew what would have unfolded had the Spurs met the Warriors at full strength.
While Manu Ginobili hasn’t given any reasons for coming back, the NBA’s second oldest player (behind Vince Carter of the Sacramento Kings) will be expected to mentor the San Antonio Spurs’ young guns.
And with Tony Parker projected to be out for the first half of the season, Ginobili would be leaned upon heavily by the organization, on and off the court.
Why bringing back Manu Ginobili benefits the San Antonio Spurs?
Manu Ginobili played relatively well last season but averaged a career low 7.5 points per game on 39 percent shooting.
However, his impact on the floor is immeasurable, providing veteran leadership and his uncanny instincts made him one of the unique players the league has ever seen. Every San Antonio Spurs fan will remember his big block on James Harden during their semifinals game against cross-town rivals, the Houston Rockets.
A true professional, Manu Ginobili brings with him his vast experience and have gamely embraced his role as the elder statesmen on a young and promising Spurs roster.
And his leadership will be called upon heavily next season especially with shake up in the Western Conference.
Had he retired last season, fans would have been happy to see him end his basketball career. Now that he’s close to coming back next season, Spurs fans couldn’t be happier as they will have the chance to witness Ginobili play again in his own inimitable way.
While it is true that Manu Ginobili has lost a step or two, his competitive fire hasn’t left him. And if that competitive fire is the only thing that “Obiwan” Ginobili can impart to his young teammates, then the Spurs and their fans can rest assured that the team would have learned from one of the best to ever step into the hardwood.
That is where Manu Ginobili's true value lies. And of course, the occasional quirky sparks Ginobili provide would be an invaluable boost for the team. Fans of the San Antonio Spurs would be glad to welcome back the heart and soul of their team.
