Manu Ginobili Considering Final World Cup Run

Despite recovering from a stress-fractured right leg, Manu Ginobili is considering a final run with Argentina in the 2014 FIBA World Cup.

Initially Ginobili’s recovery timetable would force him to miss the international tournament but plans may change as indicated by his recent interview with Spanish news outlet, canchella.

Translated from the interview:

“I definitely did not want to go to the world because I’m injured. That told me the doctor, but it is clear to which side shoots. Upon talking to Pop understood and appealed to my honesty. Guarantee I will if pain was not going to play. That was what was agreed,” says Ginobili.

Gregg Popovich has done a fantastic job resting the Argentine over the past few seasons and will undoubtedly squeeze every ounce of competitive basketball Ginobili has left in him.  Obviously playing in the World Cup may hamper such plans as Ginobili’s current injury plus his age could very well equal disaster.

But while the Spurs cannot be thrilled with the situation, its worth mentioning Manu is the player he is today because of the European game.   For now Ginobili remains optimistic he will be ready for the World Cup by mid-August but his availability hinges on the second opinion of a foot specialist.

If he misses out on the international tournament, the Spurs’ sixth man is expected to be fully recovered no later than the open of San Antonio camp come late-September.