Report: Spurs quietly optimistic Ginobili will return for 2015-16
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After suffering a heartbreaking Game 7 loss at the hands of the Los Angeles Clippers, in a first-round playoff matchup many felt would have been better suited to the Western Conference Finals, San Antonio Spurs guard Manu Ginobili felt closer to retirement than he ever had in his 13-year NBA career.
While hanging up his Spurs jersey for good was a very real option for the 37-year-old Argentine, something happened which may have swayed his decision. On Saturday, LaMarcus Aldridge announced that he would be joining Manu's Texas trio in 2015-16.
It was recently reported that Ginobili would make his future plans known via La Nacion, an Argentinian newspaper. Whether or not he will return to the only NBA team he has ever played for has yet to be declared.
The Spurs are hoping the recent developments within the organization will be enough to coax the four-time NBA champion and 2008 Sixth Man of the Year to return for one more season, reports ESPN's Marc Stein.
Here is a recap of the Spurs' latest moves:
- Kawhi Leonard agreed to a five-year max extension.
- Danny Green agreed to re-sign for four years.
- LaMarcus Aldridge committed to four years, $80 million.
- Tim Duncan announced that he will return for his 19th season.
- Head coach Gregg Popovich said he plans to coach for at least four more years.
To throw a nice, plump cherry on top of all of that, the Spurs' Vegas odds of winning the 2016 title were given a healthy boost with the acquisition of Aldridge.
If these aren't sufficient pull factors, then what are? ¿Qué no, Manu?
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