He first entered the NBA 15 seasons ago and there were plenty of NBA fans who didn’t really know much about Manu Ginobili back then. Four championships and countless other milestones later, the 40-year-old native of Argentina is still playing a major role for the franchise and city that embraced him.
One of Ginobili’s most unique NBA jerseys is the NBA Auctions Item of the Week. The Spurs “Statement” jersey that has roots in the team’s 1970s ABA days but with a 21st century twist, was worn in three games this season. Ginobili used it during the Spurs’ 105-102 victory over the Boston Celtics on December 8, wore it again during the Spurs’ 98-96 victory over the Dallas Mavericks on December 16 and one last time during the Spurs’ 108-99 victory over the Sacramento Kings on December 23.
The gray jersey, a Size 48+4 inches extra length, is registered into the NBA and MeiGray Game-Worn Jersey Authentication Program.
Ginobili has a number of claims to fame. First, he’s a four-time NBA champion. Second, he’s one of only two players, along with Bill Bradley, to have won at least a EuroLeague title, an NBA championship, and an Olympic gold medal. He’s also one of four players who have won an Olympic Gold Medal and an NBA championship in the same season. The others in that select group are Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen and LeBron James.
Several other jerseys worn by or issued to Spurs players in Statement games are also on the block through February 22 at NBA Auctions.