Manu Ginobili’s Gatorade commercial will make you want to smash through a brick wall

“Un poco mas” is an ode to dedication and hard work.

In the near-decade since Nike’s classic Live Manu Play Ginobili there hasn’t been an iconic Manu Ginobili commercial. Certainly the appeal of the hilarious ensemble performance art pieces that are the Spurs HEB commercials is impossible to ignore, but there hasn’t been anything Manu-centric for fans of The Argentine to geek out over since he had a full head of hair.

Until now:

It’s a look behind the scenes of an aging athlete’s struggle to stay in shape and productive. There’s an empty gym, a solitary player, and the work that needs to be done. How does he know when it’s enough? Can it ever be enough? Is the question about the practice or the career? For every question, the answer for now is “Un poco mas.”

From the tone of the ad, to the subtle score that builds and eventually recedes, to the repeated phrase “a little more,” this commercial is a near-masterpiece that’s both touching and inspirational. The Spanish at the end translates to, “When no one else can ask anything more from you, ask yourself. Win from within.”

It’s rare for an advertisement to successfully negotiate the themes that make this one great without becoming schmaltzy. Rarer still for such a commercial to feature one of the Spurs.

As we begin yet another season which could end up being Manu’s last, I find myself feeling grateful for the creative team behind this Gatorade spot. It’s understated, powerful, and profound. It captures this phase of Ginobili’s career perfectly, and helps me remember to enjoy every bit of what’s left for us to share with him.

Source: Pounding The Rock

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