After a stellar 21 seasons, 15 All-Star and nine All-Team selections, not to mention an NBA title – the ‘Big Ticket’ has called it a day.
Selected by the Minnesota Timberwolves with the fifth overall pick in the 1995 NBA Draft, Garnett was the first player selected directly out of high school since 1975. He was named the NBA Most Valuable Player in the 2003-04 season.
Following eight straight appearances in the Playoffs with the Timberwolves, Garnett moved to the Boston Celtics where he captured an NBA title in 2008.
After a spell with the Brooklyn Nets, Garnett returned to the Timberwolves to end his career. He informed the team of his decision to retire on Friday.
The team will waive the franchise icon, which will allow him to collect his entire $8 million salary for the 2016-17 season.
“It has been a real joy to watch KG come into the league as a young man and watch him develop his skills to become one of the very best in the NBA,” said Timberwolves owner Glen Taylor in a statement. “I have treasured the opportunity to see him grow as a leader. I wish him continued success in the next chapter of his life. His Minnesota fans will always cherish the memories he has provided.”
Photo by Jordan Johnson/NBAE via Getty Images.
