Following the news that came out last month that Manu Ginobili has decided to play his 16th season in the NBA, it has now been reported that he and the San Antonio Spurs are currently in the process of finalizing his new contract.

It is still unknown what the exact inclusions are, but it’s expected to only be for a short-term deal, as the 40-year-old Argentine international is at the twilight of his stellar career as a pro.

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Despite only playing a career-low 18.7 minutes per game last season, Ginobili was still able to produce decent numbers of 7.5 points, 2.3 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 1.2 steals per game in 69 matches off the bench. What still makes him valuable to the team is his experience and competitiveness, which helped the franchise win four titles since he joined their fold.

After the addition of Rudy Gay this summer coupled with one season under the belts of their rookies from last year, Manu Ginobili’s return will further boost their bench, allowing Gregg Popovich to field in more combinations. If he can also remain healthy throughout the campaign, he will definitely be relied upon more towards the end of the regular season, and in the playoffs, as the Spurs look to win another title which would be the perfect ending to the career of one of the best international talents to ever play in the NBA.