I thank the Spurs for allowing me time to step away to sort out issues in my personal life. I understand that I will have to regain trust within the organization and across our community, a community where I will continue to be present with enthusiasm and passion. I believe I have the best job in the world and am thrilled to be able to continue as the team’s play-by-play announcer.
Manu Ginobili on why it’s important for him to be around and contribute to the Spurs organization:
“I’m trying to contribute in any way possible because I love the organization. Everybody in it. I’ve been part of it for 20 years so it’s basically my family too.”
🩶🖤
#GoSpursGo #PorVida
Want to see the side of Wemby that commands respect among his teamamtes and captures some of his natural leadership?
Watch Wemby chopped it up with the young guys at Hakeem’s gym. 👀
That’s the aura and presence that few ever get to fully see. A rare, behind-the-scenes look.
(🎥 via: maltmega on 📱IG)
Spurs chairman Peter J. Holt, CEO RC Buford, GM Brian Wright and coach Mitch Johnson traveled to Paris to meet and spend time with Victor Wembanyama and his family and reps Friday. Wembanyama was essentially a lock to earn a $303M supermax if he played 65 games next season -- but he opted for a significant sacrifice at a flash point for the Spurs' rise.
In the Spurs championship past, Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili and Tony Parker had a history of taking less for the betterment of team-building.
Wembanyama decided on the 25% maximum instead of the 30% supermax escalators to $303M, after he and the Spurs went through multiple frameworks. A major decision for the All-NBA star and Defensive Player of the Year entering his fourth season.
San Antonio worked in close partnership with Wembanyama and his representatives, offering the full super max and different variations of extensions. But Wembanyama ultimately chose a contract sacrifice rooted in giving him and the organization increased ability to build a sustained title contender around him.
Victor Wembanyama is considering signing less than his five-year, $251 million maximum rookie scale extension to provide San Antonio greater financial flexibility. 🚨
(via @JakeLFischer)