Argentina has qualified for the Rio Olympics this summer; they came in second at the FIBA America’s tournament last summer. The did with a roster led by Luis Scola of the Raptors and former NBA player Andrés Nocioni, plus some quality players making their money either in Europe or the Argentinian leagues.
Now you can add Manu Ginobili to the list.
The @cabboficial announce @manuginobili will come out of international retirement to play for Argentina @Rio2016
— Mark Woods (@markbritball) March 24, 2016
Ginobili helped lead Argentina to the Gold Medal in 2004, but last year said he was “98 percent sure” he would not play internationally again. Clearly he has changed his mind, something confirmed on the official Argentinian national team site.
Felices de anunciar que @manuginobili le comunicó al DT Sergio Hernández que estará disponible para los Juegos Olímpicos de Río.
— Argentina Básquet (@cabboficial) March 24, 2016
Ginobili, who will be 39 at the Olympics, has had a fantastic season off the bench for the Spurs, averaging 9.4 points a game and shooting 36.5 percent from three, plus he’s still one of the more clever passers in the game. Him playing is a boost to Argentina (although they are not expected to medal).
The question is, will this be Ginobili’s graceful exit from the game? He was expected to retire at the end of this season. He could be looking to exit on an international stage.
