Photo: old.tehrantimes.com
- Adam ParkerIt's a sad day around the NBA today, as Portland Trail Blazers guard Brandon Roy is set to retire from professional basketball because of lingering issues with his degenerative knees.
Roy, 27, was the heart and soul of the Blazers' rebuilding process since being acquired by the team in a draft-day trade back in 2006.
The 2007 Rookie of the Year spent his entire 5-year career helping Portland shed its "Jail Blazers" reputation, but has spent the better part of the last two seasons sidelined while dealing with pain and soreness because of the lack of cartilage he says he lacks between the bones in both knees.
Portland was still ironing out the final kinks surrounding Roy's medical retirement, but the players were informed of his surprising decision on Friday morning before the team's first practice of training camp.
"I couldn't believe it," Blazers forward Nicolas Batum said. "I still can't believe it."
According to NBA spokesman Tim Frank, Roy had not yet filed the appropriate paperwork with the league, but it's inevitable at this point.
Coach Nate McMillan spoke to Roy on Thursday night and described him as disappointed.
"Of course, we know what he means to this franchise. He was part of bringing it back, bringing back winning basketball," McMillan said.
"Unbelievable talent. You're said to see a situation like this happen."
Roy Averaged 19 points, 4.7 assists and 4.3 rebounds over his career.
Many, like Blazers center Marcus Camby, realize the utmost importance of Roy to the Blazers' organization.
On Friday, Camby pointed up to the retired jerseys lining the rafters of the Blazers' practice facility.
"His number (7) belongs up there," Camby said. "That's all I can say."
Be sure to follow Beard And Stache on Twitter @BeardAndStache, and also Adam @Adam_Parker43, Like our Facebook page HERE!
