LaMarcus Aldridge Announces Retirement

Former Portland Trail Blazers star LaMarcus Aldridge has announced his retirement from the NBA following an incident with an irregular heartbeat. He made the announcement on Twitter. Aldridge had previously dealt with an arrythmia in 2017.

In the message, Aldridge details his heart woes, noting they worsened over the course of the game, and that it was “one of the scariest things” he has experienced. After announcing his retirement in the note, Aldridge thanks “Portland for drafting a skinny, Texas kid and giving him a chance. The city of Portland has given me some unforgettable years.” He goes on to thank the Spurs as well as the Nets.

The Portland Trail Blazers acquired Aldridge on draft night in 2006. He played for the Blazers for nine seasons in total, followed by six seasons for the San Antonio Spurs. Most recently, he played for the Brooklyn Nets following a buyout. He was expected to add additional depth to the Brooklyn Nets after signing a one-year deal with them.