Manu Ginobili returning to San Antonio Spurs as special advisor

Spurs players reflect upon Manu Ginobili's intelligence and competitiveness, and recall their favourite moments from his career. (3:05).
Sources told ESPN that Manu Ginobili, a four-time NBA champion and one of the most influential international players in basketball history, is returning to San Antonio Spurs to serve as special advisor to basketball operations.

Sources said Ginobili (44) will be working in a player-centric position that focuses on the development of young Spurs players.

The organization has tried to persuade Ginobili to accept an organizational role within the franchise since his NBA retirement in 2018, after 16 seasons playing in San Antonio.

Ginobili was a respected leader and teammate in the sport. Gregg Popovich is the CEO and head coach of the Spurs. Buford and Brian Wright wanted to use his influence to help the Spurs culture reach the next generation.

Ginobili, who played 16 years in the NBA with the Spurs, was a two-time All-Star as well as the 2008 Sixth Man Of The Year award winner. His international basketball career was also impressive, with an Olympic gold medal for Argentina as well as earning MVP in EuroLeague.