Veteran forward Rudy Gay, who played 17 years in the NBA, announced his retirement from the league, calling himself “the luckiest man in the world” in an op-ed for The Players Tribune.
I'm 38 years old.
I have an 18 year career in the NBA.
It's time to hang it. Thank you for everything, it's all love. @PlayersTribune https://t.co/GOEjp3rolL
— Rudy Gay (@RudyGay) October 29, 2024
Gay is arguably one of the top NBA players of all time to never receive All-Star or All-NBA honors, and he particularly shined with the Sacramento Kings.
Gay appeared in 223 games with Sacramento from 2013 to 2017, averaging 19.3 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 1.3 steals per game. Although Gay never had much success during his time with the Kings, he was one of the most exciting players, especially to many Kings fans.
Rudy Gay announces retirement after 18 NBA seasons pic.twitter.com/cleMWay59s
— Ballislife.com (@Ballislife) October 29, 2024
Gay played his final two NBA seasons with the Utah Jazz, becoming a valuable role player on the playoff team despite his age. He spent most of his time with the Memphis Grizzlies, averaging 17.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 1.3 steals per game, making his name known throughout the NBA.
Although he didn't make the playoffs during his time with the Kings, he was part of a memorable Sacramento team, especially in the 2015-16 season, which centered on star center DeMarcus Cousins and talented point guard Rajon Rondo, making him one of the most skilled trios. became one of the Not enough to qualify for the postseason.
Gay only spent a few years in Sacramento, but he was a great player for five franchises and any fan would wish him a happy retirement.
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