6. Sixth Man of the Year Award

Manu Ginobili became an All-Star in 2005 which put the San Antonio Spurs in a dilemma whether to insert him into the starting lineup or not.

Midway through the 2006-07 season, the staff agreed that the Spurs were a better team with Manu coming off the bench. When head coach Popovich presented this idea to Ginobili, he accepted the less significant role thus choosing the best interest for his team and the rest is history. Manu became one of the best sixth man to have ever played the game. His acceptance of a lesser role was significant in establishing San Antonio's current culture.
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"He played as big a part as Tim in building our culture," Buford said. "When Manu Ginobili comes off the bench, it's hard for anyone to bitch about why they aren't starting. Look at that guy, then talk to me." "You can't say s---. It set a precedent.", added Duncan.
Ginobili was finally rewarded for his sacrifice and was named the Sixth Man of the Year in 2008.
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