Jason Kidd is retiring.
The 19-year NBA veteran announced today that he was putting an end to his professional basketball career.
Kidd told ESPN New York : “I think it is the right time … When you think about 19 years, it has been a heckuva ride. Physically, I want to be able to participate in activities with my kids so it has taken a toll …
Kidd, 40, has two years left on his contract with the New York Knicks but decided this weekend that it was time to hang up his jersey. Kidd said that the Knicks were a little shocked to hear about his decision but said that it was “the right thing to do.”
Kidd said: “We talked a lot and we felt it was the right time to move on and so we notified the Knicks. They were kind of taken aback. We told them [earlier] that I wanted to come back and play. But this weekend was when we got a chance to relax [and really think about it]. It is the right thing to do.”
Knicks GM Glen Grunwald said in a statement: “Jason’s value to the Knicks and the National Basketball Association cannot be quantified by statistics alone … Everyone here in New York saw firsthand what a tremendous competitor he is and why Jason is considered to be one of the best point guards, and leaders, the game has ever seen.”
Kidd is second all-time in assists and steals behind John Stockton, won an NBA championship with the Dallas Mavericks, and has two Olympic gold medals with Team USA.
The future Hall-Of-Famer may be stepping away from the game at the moment but Kidd said that he would be interested in coaching or broadcasting in the future.
Kidd said: “It is time to move on and think about maybe coaching or doing some broadcasting.”
Kidd’s announcement comes a few days after Grant Hill announced his retirement . Kidd and Hill shared Rookie of the Year honors back in 1995.
Kidd said: “My time in professional basketball has been an incredible journey, but one that must come to an end after 19 years … As I reflect on my time with the four teams I represented in the NBA (Suns, Mavericks, Nets, Knicks), I look back fondly at every season and thank each every one of my teammates and coaches that joined me on the court.”