Former Phoenix Suns player Yuta Watanabe has decided to forego his player option and return to Japan.
In Phoenix, following his trade to the Memphis Grizzlies during the NBA trade deadline, former Suns sharpshooter Yuta Watanabe revealed via Instagram Live that he will not be exercising his $2.65 million player option for the 2024-25 season. Instead, he will be returning to Japan.
“I simply want to focus on playing basketball. Stepping onto the court and executing what I practice,” he expressed (source: Kyodo News). “I dedicated my 20s to grinding it out, but now I want to enjoy the game the way I prefer.” Watanabe attributed mental health considerations as a significant factor in his decision, particularly noting his surprise and subsequent depression after being traded from Phoenix. Turning 30, he aimed to return to Japan and relish playing basketball again.
“I faced challenges,” Watanabe admitted. “Throughout my 20s, my goal was to persevere in America, regardless of circumstances. Stay determined, no matter what. It had its moments of enjoyment but also entailed a lot of hard work.”
Initially regarded as a valuable acquisition for Phoenix last summer, bringing in a reliable three-point shooter with experience alongside Kevin Durant from their time in Brooklyn, Watanabe encountered difficulties early on with the Suns and eventually saw reduced playing time.
Upon joining the Grizzlies, he appeared in only five games and was absent during the season’s final stretch due to “personal reasons” listed on the league’s injury report.
We wish Watanabe the best moving forward. Watching him contribute to Japan in the upcoming Olympics and hoping for his success in a more familiar environment at home is something to look forward to.
