Celtics Legend and Ex-Champion Retires From NBA

After 16 seasons in the NBA, a former Boston Celtics star, and a member of the franchise's most recent championship team, is calling it a career.

Rajon Rondo, who spent the first nine seasons of his career in Boston before embarking on a journeyman career, officially announced his retirement via the "All the Smoke" podcast with former NBAers Matt Barnes and Stephen Jackson.

Primarily renowned for his defense and passing ability, Rondo spent his first nine seasons in a Celtics uniform before spreading the remainder of his career across eight different stops. The Kentucky product was the 21st overall pick in the 2006 NBA Draft by the Phoenix Suns, but was acquired by Boston on draft night.

Barnes, a 15-year vet himself, asked Rondo if fans have seen the last of him in the league. Rondo had not played a game since March 12, 2022 with the Cleveland Cavaliers and turned 38 in February.

"Absolutely. Yeah, I'm done. I can't. I'd rather spend time with my kids."

- Rajon Rondo on his retirement

In his distinguished Celtics' career, Rondo compiled quite the trophy case. In addition to his 2008 NBA title, Rondo was a four-time NBA All-Star, 2-time NBA assists leader, and the 2010 NBA steals leader. He was named to the four All-NBA Defensive Teams and earned an All-NBA third team selection during his time in Boston. Rondo currently ranks 15th all-time in assists in NBA history.

Rondo collected another ring in 2020 with the Los Angeles Lakers, and reflected on the totality of his career with Barnes and Jackson:

"What a time. Definitely something I never took for granted while I was in the game. I loved every minute of it, and I appreciate the brotherhood I was able to share, and bond and grow with over the years. I learned so much in this game, and it’s made me the man I am today."

- Rajon Rondo reflecting on his NBA career

The point guard's Celtics career came to an end when he was dealt to the Dallas Mavericks in December 2014. He played 527 regular season and 92 playoff games with Boston, averaging 11 points and 8.5 assists per game during the regular season.

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