On Thursday, LaMarcus Aldridge announced that he's retiring from the NBA.
Aldridge revealed in a letter that he played his last game with an irregular heartbeat. While he says he's feeling better now, he wrote that it was "one of the scariest things I've experienced" and that it's time to "put my health and family first."
— LaMarcus Aldridge (@aldridge_12) April 15, 2021
The No. 2 pick in the 2006 NBA Draft, Aldridge spent the first nine seasons of his career with the Portland Trail Blazers. He then signed with the San Antonio Spurs as a free agent in 2015 and joined the Brooklyn Nets following a buyout with the Spurs around this season's trade deadline.
"The Nets organization fully supports LaMarcus' decision, and while we value what he has brought to our team during his short time in Brooklyn, his health and well being are far more important than the game of basketball," Nets general manager Sean Marks wrote in a statement. "We know this was not an easy decision for him, but after careful consideration and consultation with numerous medical experts, he made the best decision for him, his family and for his life after basketball.
"We wish LaMarcus, Kia and their family much health and happiness going forward."
Aldridge retires with career averages of 19.4 points, 8.2 rebounds, 2.0 assists and 1.1 blocks per game. He earned seven All-Star selections, as well as two All-NBA Second Team selections and three All-NBA Third Team selections.
NBA players were quick to send their thoughts and prayers to Aldridge following his announcement.
— CJ McCollum (@CJMcCollum) April 15, 2021
— Donovan Mitchell (@spidadmitchell) April 15, 2021
Prayers up @aldridge_12! Great dude, great teammate. Hell of a career! https://t.co/gLh5syV8Ax
— Quincy Pondexter (@QuincyPondexter) April 15, 2021
Peace be with you fam! Helluva run!! https://t.co/wfr6CRQlRz
— David West (@D_West30) April 15, 2021
@aldridge_12 a pros pro. prayers up family!!! #Healthiswealth
— Jason "The Jet" Terry (@jasonterry31) April 15, 2021
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