Alexis Ajinca announces retirement at 33

MEMPHIS, TN - FEBRUARY 15: Alexis Ajinca #42 of the New Orleans Pelicans handles the ball during a game against the Memphis Grizzlies on February 15, 2017 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images)

By Eurohoops team / info@eurohoops.net

French international and former NBAer Alexis Ajinca announced his retirement, roughly two and a half years after his last game with LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne.

In his statement, he writes:

“The time has come for me to turn the page as a professional player. Basketball has given me a lot. I thank the fans, clubs, coaches, volunteers, and my teammates for all these moments. I thank my friends and family who have always supported me”

Ajinca, 33, spent his last active season with the French club, coming from a long stint with the New Orleans Pelicans (2013-2018). He was part of the French national team that lifted the EuroBasket title in 2013.

The French big man was selected with the 20th pick in the 2008 draft by the Charlotte Bobcats (now Charlotte Hornets), where he began his NBA journey, before moving to Dallas (2010-2011) and then to the Toronto Raptors in 2011. He made his return to Europe in 2011 with Hyeres-Toulon, before joining SIG Strasbourg next season.

 

 

Photo: Getty Images

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