NBA News: Manu Ginobili Played with Stress Fracture During NBA Finals, Out 2-3 Months

Manu Ginobili exemplified professionalism and the heart of a champion all throughout his career in the NBA. He played through challenges and pain. One of which was during the latest NBA finals.

Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo Sports reports that San Antonio Spurs guard Manu Giniboli was playing through a stress fracture in his right leg during the NBA Finals. The said ailment was diagnosed during his exit physical after the series and the said ailment will force the versatile lefty to miss most of training camp and the upcoming FIBA World Championships in August 2014.

Ginobili, 36, is already consulting another physician for a second opinion. He is expected to rest and rehabilitate for two months and is expected to be fully recovered by September or the start of training camp for the forthcoming NBA season. He expects to be back as a major contributor off the bench, his prominent role his whole career with the Spurs, and defend the NBA title.

"The injury exists," Ginobili tweeted in Spanish. "But my participation in the World Cup will depend on how much I get better in the next 20 days. I'm being optimistic.

"As soon as I get better, I'll be able to say more, sooner than later."

The four-time NBA champion was instrumental in the convincing Finals run of the Spurs posting 14.4 points and 4 assists during their five-game series with the Miami Heat. He is expected to be back along with power forward Tim Duncan who agreed to new terms to stay with the team. Center Boris Diaw is also a near certainty to come back to the smooth flowing offense of the Spurs that highlights drives, kick-outs and plenty of shooting.

A future Hall of Famer, Ginobili has already won various accolades such as the 2008 Sixth Man od the Year, two All-star appearances and four NBA championships.