Serge Ibaka remains uncertain about retirement, telling Lindsay Dunn of CityNews Toronto, “You never know. Sometimes I’m like maybe soon, maybe no. You never know.” The 35-year-old veteran emphasized feeling great mentally and physically, leaving his future open.
Ibaka recently parted ways with Real Madrid on July 2 after averaging 6.2 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 0.7 blocks in nearly 18 minutes per game during the EuroLeague season. His departure turned him into a free agent amid growing speculation about his next move.
Israeli journalist Moshe Barda reported that Maccabi Tel Aviv is closely monitoring Ibaka’s situation. The EuroLeague contender is looking to strengthen its frontcourt, and Ibaka’s experience and defensive skills could be a valuable addition.
Ibaka has deep EuroLeague ties, having first joined Real Madrid during the 2011 NBA lockout. He returned in 2024 and appeared in 29 games last season, demonstrating consistent efficiency with 62.5% shooting from the field and 40.7% from three-point range.
In total, Ibaka has played 63 EuroLeague games, averaging 9.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.0 block per game. His international experience complements his 14-year NBA career, where he became known as an elite rim protector and stretch big man.
During his NBA tenure, Ibaka led the league in blocks in 2012 and 2013 and earned three NBA All-Defensive First Team selections. His standout season came in 2013-14 with the Oklahoma City Thunder, posting 15.1 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 2.7 blocks per contest.
Ibaka won an NBA championship with the Toronto Raptors in 2019, cementing his legacy as a key contributor on a title-winning squad. After his last NBA season with the Milwaukee Bucks in 2022-23, he returned to Europe, playing for Bayern Munich before joining Real Madrid.
With Maccabi Tel Aviv’s reported interest, Ibaka’s next chapter remains unclear. His statement to CityNews suggests retirement is not imminent but could come at any time. For now, his priority is maintaining top mental and physical condition.
