Shooting guard Manu Ginobili, who won four NBA titles in 16 seasons — all with the San Antonio Spurs — has announced his retirement.
Ginobili, 41, had one year remaining on his contract and had been working out at the Spurs' practice facility before reaching his decision.
In a tweet announcing his retirement, Ginobili called his basketball career "a fabulous journey. Way beyond my wildest dreams."
The 6-6 native of Argentina was selected by the Spurs in the second round of the 1999 NBA draft, but didn't play for them until the 2002-03 season.
With his smooth left-handed jump shot and his versatile all-around game, Ginobili quickly became a fan favorite in San Antonio as the Spurs won the NBA title during his rookie season.
He was a member of the NBA All-Rookie team that season and went on to be named the league's Sixth Man of the Year in 2007-08.
A two-time All-Star, Ginobili averaged 13.3 points, 3.5 rebounds and 3.8 assists per game over his 16-year career. He ranks in the Spurs' top five in career points, assists and steals.
Ginobili also won an Olympic gold medal with Argentina at the 2004 Summer Games in Athens, leading the team in scoring at more than 19 points per game and hitting a game-winning buzzer-beater in the opening round vs. Serbia.
