It seems like in the past few years, we’ve been asking the question: When is Manu Ginobli going to retire? Does he still have another year left?
Today, the questions can finally be put to rest. The legendary San Antonio Spurs player will retire from the league at the age of 41 and after 16 seasons.
Today, with a wide range of feelings, I'm announcing my retirement from basketball. IMMENSE GRATITUDE to everyone (family, friends, teammates, coaches, staff, fans) involved in my life in the last 23 years. It's been a fabulous journey. Way beyond my wildest dreams. pic.twitter.com/3MLCUtmd6K
— Manu Ginobili (@manuginobili) August 27, 2018
#GraciasManu por todo! pic.twitter.com/8252qgCmvi
— San Antonio Spurs (@spurs) August 27, 2018
The future Hall of Famer was given all the time he needed by the Spurs organization to make his decision, as the team wanted him to return for a 17th season. Unfortunately, he has decided to move on, after having cemented his status internationally, in the league and with the franchise. He will go down as one of the greatest players to ever put on a San Antonio jersey and a 4-time champion.
He finishes his career in the Top 5 of all time for points, assists and steals as a Spur, playing a remarkable 218 playoff games for the team.
San Antonio thanked Ginobli with a video tribute for all his contributions.
With Tony Parker on a different uniform next season, Kawhi Leonard in Canada and Tim Duncan fully retired, the last member of the band has left the building. It’s time for a new era for San Antonio and Coach Gregg Popovich.