Manu stands firm at own risk

Few have as much to lose as Ginobili in this hissing match between billionaires and millionaires. At age 34, with a reckless style that enables his brilliance but endangers his limbs, the Spurs star sees the rapid approach of retirement. He is under contract to the Spurs this season and next, at long last compensated at value commensurate with his worth.

Lose this season — as David Stern hints may happen if there is no breakthrough by the end of today’s intervention by federal mediator George Cohen — and Ginobili will forfeit almost $13 million and perhaps his final chance to be part of the Spurs’ Big Three.

After all, Tim Duncan, 36, has only this season remaining on his deal with the Spurs.

Even with so much to lose, Ginobili’s solidarity with the union was no surprise.

“Remember this,” said Ginobili’s veteran agent, Herb Rudoy. “Manu is the ultimate team player. He is remarkable, particularly when you see him with those Argentina guys. They all play for the collective good of their national team; Manu doesn’t care if he gets five points or 25. It’s all about team, and that’s the only way to look at him and not be surprised by his position on union solidarity.

“It’s part of his mentality; part of the fabric that makes him Manu Ginobili.”

Ginobili’s willingness to stand firm recognizes the sacrifices made by NBPA members over 40-odd years, with an eye focused steadily on the future.

“I think it’s really simple for guys like Manu, Tim and other vets that make a lot of money,” Rudoy said. “I’ve talked to Manu about it. He says they’ve benefited from the system the NBPA put in place, and he wants the players coming behind him to have the same opportunities he has had.

“I’ve raised the very question with him about having a lot to lose, and he dismisses it. He said standing united is the right thing to do.”