Seven-time all-star LaMarcus Aldridge announced his retirement from the NBA after 16 seasons with three different franchises.
“In the words of TB12, you only get one big, emotional retirement,” Aldridge tweeted on Friday. “So, on that note…I’m thankful for all the memories, family and friends I made throughout my career. It was one hell of a ride and I enjoyed every min! 12.”
This is the second time that Aldridge has walked away from basketball hence the reference to NFL great Tom Brady, but this time, it was on his own terms. The big man initially retired in April of 2021 after a scan revealed an irregular heartbeat that made playing basketball a risk to his health.
He eventually came out of retirement and played with the Nets last season. In 47 games in Brooklyn during the 2021–22 campaign, Aldridge averaged 12.9 points and 5.5 rebounds, and eclipsed the 20,000-point mark for his career.
Over his 16 career seasons, Aldridge had stints with the Trail Blazers, Spurs and Nets and averaged 19.1 points and 8.1 rebounds on 49.3% shooting from the floor.
In the words of TB12, you only get one big, emotional retirement… so, on that note…I’m thankful for all the memories, family and friends I made throughout my career. It was one hell of a ride and I enjoyed every min! 12
— LaMarcus Aldridge (@aldridge_12) March 31, 2023
