Manu at West, nagretiro na

CALIFORNIA (AP) – Dalawang beteranong 40-anyos na world champion ang nagdesisyon na tapusin na ang kanilang career sa NBA.

Sa magkahiwalay na pahayag sa kani-kanilang Twitter account, pormal na isinabit nina Golden State Warriors forward David West at San Antonio Spurs star Manu Ginobili ang kanilang jersey bago ang nalalapit na pagbubukas ng NBA season.

Nakapaglaro si West ng 15 seasons, kabilang ang natamong kampeonato sa Warriors sa nakalipas na season. Si West ay two-time NBA All-Star.

Itinuturing European star bago sumabak sa NBA noong 2002, bahagi si Ginobili, hall-of-famer sa bansang Argentina, sa apat na kampeonato ng Spurs.

“Today, with a wide range of feelings, I'm announcing my retirement from basketball. IMMENSE GRATITUDE to everyone (family, friends, teammates, coaches, staff, fans) involved in my life in the last 23 years. It's been a fabulous journey. Way beyond my wildest dreams,” pahayag ni Ginobili.

Sa kanyang post sa Twitter, inilimbag ni West ang pahayag: "I have been fortunate enough to live out my childhood dream of playing in the NBA. After 15 seasons, I have decided to retire from the game of basketball. I am humbled and thankful for the support of my family, friends, coaches, teammates, organizations and fans throughout this experience. To anyone who has ever cheered me on, been in my corner, prayed or simply said a nice word on my behalf, I am grateful. Belief in yourself is not negotiable. Cheers!"

Malaki ang kontribusyo ni West sa back-to-back championship ng Warriors kung saan naitala niya ang averaged 13.6 puntos, 6.4 rebounds at 2.2 assists.