However, the Spurs have changed things around now and looks like the favorites in the West with the re-signings of Duncan and Danny Green, along with the marquee acquisition of top free agent LaMarcus Aldridge.
Tool that in with the possibility of getting David West, the Spurs look like they could get their sixth championship in the Duncan era now. And they are hoping they can do that with Ginobili still on board.
According to ESPN.com, the Spurs are now determined to have the Argentinian shooting guard return for one more season. Ginobili, 37, has been pondering retirement for the past few years and especially after the team's first-round playoff exit this year.
Ginobili has every reason to retire and not return for his 14th season, but the opportunity the Spurs have here to win another ring seems too good to pass up on. It looks like that is what San Antonio is going to be pitching to the Ginobili.
Ginobili even said it himself that Duncan's decision would impact his. Duncan has decided to return for his 19th NBA season, so why not Manu come in for his 14th?
Ginobili has had a solid career, averaging over 14 points per game, including over 15 in the postseason. He's been a key part of the team's championship wins over the past decade.
San Antonio is currently 4-1 favorites by the oddsmakers to win the NBA Finals next year, only behind the Cleveland Cavaliers (9-4). They are 2-1 favorites to win the Western Conference, even over the defending-champion Golden State Warriors.
While it's unclear what Ginobili will do, Spurs fans should be excited for the upcoming season and the many to come with Aldridge on board, meaning Gregg Popovich will assuredly coach this team beyond Duncan's career now.
My bet is that Ginobili return. I hope he does, at least.
By Josh Dhani
