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Pau Gasol, the former basketball player, announced his retirement at a press conference on Tuesday.
The 41-year old spent 19 seasons with the NBA, winning two titles and six All-Star selections. He also won the 2002 Rookie-of-the-Year award.
After playing for the team in 1998 and 2001, he returned to Spain to complete his career with FC Barcelona.
Gasol was No. Gasol was the No. 3 pick in 2001's NBA draft. He quickly became a difference-maker with the Memphis Grizzlies. In six-and-a half seasons, he averaged 18.8 points per game and 8.6 rebounds. He was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers midseason in 2008 for 18.6 points and 8.6 rebound.
Los Angeles was the No. 2 spot for the center, and it thrived there. Kobe Bryant was the No. 2 option, which helped the team win back to back titles in 2009 and 2010.
Gasol spent six seasons in Los Angeles before he left the NBA to continue his career with the Chicago Bulls. The San Antonio Spurs, Milwaukee Bucks, Milwaukee Bucks, and Portland Trail Blazers.
His career ends with him ranked among the top 50 in NBA/ABA history for total points (20.894), rebounds (11.1305), and blocks (1.941). Basketball Reference ranks his 144 win share 31st all time.
Adam Silver, the NBA commissioner, congratulated Gasol for his retirement and called him "one of most accomplished players his generation".
Gasol was instrumental in winning the Olympic silver medals for Spain in 2008 and 2012, and the bronze in 2016. Gasol led his country to the 2006 FIBA World Championship gold medal, winning the MVP award.
When he is eligible, his achievements could lead to him being inducted into the Hall of Fame.
