Former Kings point guard Rajon Rondo has officially announced his retirement from basketball after a 16-year career in the NBA. The announcement came during his appearance on the “All the Smoke” podcast.
During the podcast, when asked by host Matt Barnes if he was done with his NBA career, the 38-year-old Rondo responded affirmatively, stating, “Absolutely. Yeah, I’m done. I can’t. I’d rather spend time with my kids.”
Rondo had an illustrious career, being a four-time NBA All-Star (2010-2013) and a two-time NBA champion (2008 with the Boston Celtics and 2020 with the Los Angeles Lakers). His last NBA stint was with the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2022.
Reflecting on his career, Rondo expressed gratitude for the experiences and lessons he gained, stating, “What a time, it was definitely something that I never took for granted when I was in the game.” He emphasized the importance of the brotherhood he formed with fellow players and how basketball shaped him as a person.
Drafted by the Phoenix Suns as the 21st overall pick in 2006 and then traded to the Boston Celtics, Rondo spent the first nine seasons of his career in Boston. He played a pivotal role in the Celtics’ 2008 championship run and earned his first All-Star nod in 2010. During his tenure with the Celtics, he showcased his skills with 10 triple-doubles in 92 playoff games.
After leaving the Celtics, Rondo had stints with several teams, including the Dallas Mavericks, Sacramento Kings, Chicago Bulls, New Orleans Pelicans, Los Angeles Lakers, Atlanta Hawks, and Los Angeles Clippers.
Rondo’s contributions to the Lakers during the 2020 NBA Finals, where he played a significant role off the bench, earned him recognition as only the second player in NBA history to win championships with both the Celtics and the Lakers, joining Hall of Famer Clyde Lovellette.
In his final season, Rondo had brief stints with the Atlanta Hawks and the Los Angeles Clippers before rejoining the Lakers and eventually being traded to the Cavaliers. Throughout his career, he showcased exceptional skills as a playmaker, earning All-Defensive Team honors four times and leading the league in assists three times.
As Rondo bids farewell to professional basketball, he leaves behind a legacy marked by championships, individual accolades, and a lasting impact on the game.