Pair of Spurs exit global stage

Tony Parker played his final game for France in Wednesday's 92-67 loss to Spain. [Photo/Agencies]

The New York Knicks star was effusive, adding: "He has carried that country on his back over the years."

Parker said his body can no longer take the extra duty of international play and still be effective over the six-month NBA campaign.

"This was my last game for France," he said. "I am not going to change my mind on that. It takes a toll."

Ginobili was proud his body held up so long.

"I am proud of the longevity, the way we played, all the things we accomplished, the friendships and the camaraderie we created," Ginobili said.

"To play this game at 39, it is not something that happens often. It has been amazing."

It marks the end of an era for both teams. France will also say goodbye to forwards Florent Pietrus, 35, and Mickael Gelabale, 33.

"We wanted to give them a medal, but we won't," French center Rudy Gobert said.

"Those three guys have done a lot of great things for this team. Not the best way to go out, but we won't forget what they have done."

Argentina also said farewell to 36-year-old forwards Andres Nocioni and Luis Scola.

"It was a pleasure to share all these moments," Nocioni said. "It was an honor, but this cycle had to come to an end."

Scola added: "We got a chance to fight, compete, grow up together. Did some good things. Lost some games together, won some games together. It was fun."

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