LaMarcus Aldridge quotes Tom Brady retiring from the NBA for the second time, writing “You only get one big, emotional retirement” as the seven-time All-Star nears.
Lamarcus Aldridge announced on Friday that he will once again retire from the NBA — and use some words from Tom Brady to announce.
Aldridge, 37, initially retired in 2021 after experiencing an irregular heartbeat in the last five games he played for the Brooklyn Nets that season. He returned to the Nets five months after announcing his retirement.
The seven-time All-Star was diagnosed with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome — an abnormal condition that can cause a rapid heartbeat — as a junior in 2007.
Writing on Twitter on Friday, he used a phrase Brady uttered in a self-deprecating tone when the legendary quarterback announced his second retirement from football in February.
Aldridge said: “In the words of TB12 (Tom Brady), you only get one big, emotional retirement… So, on that note… I’m grateful for all the memories, family and friends I’ve made throughout my career. It’s been an interesting journey and I enjoyed Every minute!
LaMarcus Aldridge announced on Friday that he will once again retire from the NBA
He walked away from the game for the first time in 2021 but returned to the NBA just five months later
Despite the health prognosis, Aldridge was among the great men of his time. As a Texans second pick in the 2006 draft, he averaged 19.1 points and 8.1 rebounds in his career.
A five-time All-NBA selection, Aldridge was hailed by San Antonio coach Gregg Popovich when he first retired as “a consummate professional with a unique skill set and a deep respect for the game.”
Drafted second overall out of Texas in 2006, Aldridge averaged 19.1 points and 8.1 rebounds in 1,076 games (997 starts) with the Portland Trail Blazers, San Antonio Spurs and Nets.
Aldridge made the All-NBA Second Team twice and the All-NBA Third Team three times.
He last played for the Brooklyn Nets in 2021-22, when he reached 20,000 career points.