When Ginobili stepped onto the court, thunderous cheers erupted throughout the arena.
Although in terms of historical standing, Ginobili fell somewhat short of Duncan.
But just as Popovich had said in his earlier speech, Ginobili had sacrificed a great deal for the Spurs.
Combined with his personality, he was immensely popular in San Antonio.
"Thank you, thank you, thank you, everyone."
Only after he said thank you three times did the on-site fans' cheers finally subside.
"Sorry, Coach, I can't take responsibility for your hair, just like no one can take responsibility for mine."
Ginobili's flair came from his bones. The moment he opened his mouth, he stole the show and drew wave after wave of whistles from the crowd.
"And I have to thank you and the Spurs. You know, as the 57th pick, on another team I might have sat on the bench for several seasons before leaving."
Ginobili's next words turned the whistles into cheers.
Although Popovich had Ginobili come off the bench for most of his career, Popovich and Ginobili, Ginobili and the Spurs, had all made one another.
"Tim, your speech was six minutes long. I love you to death. Nineteen years have passed since the first time you got my name wrong. We're both old now."
"Tony, I liked myself with flowing long hair too, but I can probably only see that in game footage now."
"Tang, becoming teammates with you was one of the happiest things in my life. I can brag to my sons now that I once played on the same team as the Number One Player in Basketball."
Ginobili thanked everyone one by one.
"At the 1999 NBA Draft, when I got the call telling me I'd been selected, I could hardly believe it. It changed the direction of my