By Eurohoops team/ info@eurohoops.net
After the classification game against Lebanon, Iranian basketball legend Hamed Haddadi announced his retirement from international play.
The 38-year-old center had 14 points and eight rebounds in what was the last contest of a long career that included among other accolades playing in two Olympic Games.
“I have had a long career with the national team since the 2000s,” Haddadi said after his last game. “I try to play when I can even if I’m out of shape. I feel good but upset too because I leave my team”.
Haddadi thanked his doctors for his longevity: “I want to give a special thank you to my doctor here who has been with me for more than 10 years. Thank you for pushing me even if I already want to quit. I wish the best for the national team. We have talent but must be patient if they need anything. I am here to help”.
After this tournament, Haddadi entered the top-five for blocks in World Cup history with 31 rejections.
“It is time for the young generation. They need to get more time and more experience with more game-time”.