By Eurohoops team / info@eurohoops.net
AEK Athens forward Jonas Maciulis announced his decision to retire from professional basketball after 19 years on Thursday through a post on his Instagram account.
In his heartfelt statement attached to pictures from his childhood, the 36-year-old player writes:
“I remember [like it was yesterday]. It all started at Baršausko st. in Kaunas. The child was brought to his mother and aunt with the idea of having some energy to spend and exercise with other children. No one thought that in the years to come, simple desires would turn into such an amazing basketball career that it is time to end. There was a lot of sweat, tears of joy and frustration. Met many amazing people. Have traveled to many countries. Won many titles. I want to thank everyone who supported me in the most difficult moments after the losses and after the surgeries. To my family, friends, coaches, doctors and all the people who worked on the teams and undoubtedly to all the fans”
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The Lithuanian international exits with a EuroLeague title in 2015 with Real Madrid, two FIBA Intercontinental Cups with Real and AEK (2015, 2019), as well as numerous other honors with the Lithuanian National Team, including a bronze medal at the 2010 FIBA World Cup, two silver medals at the 2013 and 2015 EuroBasket and bronze at the 2007 EuroBasket.
He began his career with the second team of Zalgiris in 2002 and he has since played for the first team (2005-2009), Nevezis, Olimpia Milano, Montepaschi Siena, Panathinaikos, Real, Lokomotiv and AEK.
Photo: Eurokinissi