Skip to content

Popovich started Ginobili in Game 4 'out of respect'

Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports / Action Images

Gregg Popovich didn't want to miss out on giving Manu Ginobili the proper send-off he deserved.

While the San Antonio Spurs head coach admitted he's unsure whether the Argentinian shooting guard will retire this summer, he decided to start Ginobili in Game 4 in case Monday's defeat to the Warriors marked the final game of the latter's career.

"Manu, he's a grown man and he'll figure out what is best for him and his family. We started him tonight out of respect," Popovich told Sports Illustrated's Ben Golliver. "That was the whole reason for starting him. Before the game, you think, you know, this may or may not be the last game that he ever plays in, and I did not want to miss the opportunity to honor him in front of our home fans for his selflessness over the years."

Related: Watch: Spurs fans chant Manu's name as he exits for what could be final time

Popovich has no doubt that Ginobili - who has four rings to his name - deserves a spot in Springfield, and believes the veteran will go down as one of the greatest team players of his generation.

"I mean, this is a Hall of Fame player who allowed me to bring him off the bench for - I can't even remember now, the last decade or something - because it would make us a better team overall," Popovich said.

"So obviously he's a big reason for our success, and he deserved to have that night of respect so that he really feels that we appreciate everything he's done over the years. If he decides he's going to play again, that's up to him, but I won't try to convince him one way or the other. I don't think he needs that."

Ginobili told reporters following Monday's contest that he plans to take three-to-four weeks to make a decision regarding his future, but claimed he'll be a "happy camper" no matter which route he chooses.

Daily Newsletter

Get the latest trending sports news daily in your inbox