Spurs stalwart Manu Ginobili announces his retirement, launching San Antonio into a new era

Manu Ginobili, the veteran shooting guard for the San Antonio Spurs, officially announced his retirement Monday after 16 years with the Texas team. In a reflective tweet, the 41-year-old shared his "immense gratitude" for everyone who contributed to his "fabulous journey":

Ginobili spent his entire NBA career with the Spurs, winning four titles alongside forward Tim Duncan and point guard Tony Parker. Duncan retired a lifelong Spur in 2016, while Parker signed with the Charlotte Hornets as a free agent last month. The trio, along with head coach Gregg Popovich, stood as an original "Big Three" that was often lauded for its staid demeanor and beautiful basketball. The Spurs will now begin a season without Duncan, Parker, or Ginobili — not to mention the loss of their Finals MVP forward Kawhi Leonard over the offseason — for the first time since 1997.

In addition to playing in San Antonio, Ginobili was a member of the Argentine national team. He was known for his craftiness with the ball and his admittedly receding hairline. See some of Ginobili's best plays over his 16-year career below. Kimberly Alters

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