Rajon Rondo, a seasoned veteran of the NBA, has officially announced his retirement after an illustrious 16-season career. The announcement came during an appearance on the 'All the Smoke' podcast, where Rondo expressed his decision to step away from the game to prioritize spending time with his children.
Throughout his career, Rondo achieved significant milestones, including being a four-time All-Star and a two-time NBA champion. His last stint in the league was with the Los Angeles Lakers and Cleveland Cavaliers during the 2021-22 season.
Reflecting on his time in the NBA, Rondo shared his gratitude for the experiences and relationships he built within the basketball community. He emphasized the importance of the lessons he learned through the game, shaping him into the person he is today.
Rondo's impact on the court was undeniable, leading the league in steals per game in 2009-10 and in assists per game in 2011-12, 2012-13, and 2015-16. He was also recognized for his defensive prowess, earning a spot on the NBA's All-Defensive Team four times.
His championship pedigree was evident as he secured NBA titles with the Boston Celtics in 2007-08 and the Los Angeles Lakers in 2019-20. Over his career, Rondo showcased his versatility, averaging 9.8 points, 7.9 assists, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.6 steals in 957 games.
Having played for various teams, including the Celtics, Mavericks, Kings, Bulls, Pelicans, Hawks, Clippers, and Cavaliers, Rondo's impact transcended individual accolades. His contributions to the game will be remembered for years to come, leaving a lasting legacy in the NBA.
