Ray Allen won championships in Boston and Miami, made one of the most unforgettable shots in NBA Finals history and has more three-pointers than anyone who ever played in the league. More than two years after his last game, Allen announced on Tuesday his retirement.
In a post on "The Player's Tribune" website, he wrote a letter to his younger self: "I write this to you today as a 41-year-old man who is retiring from the game. I write to you as a man who is completely at peace with himself."
According to NBA, Commissioner Adam Silver described Allen as "an extraordinary player." He also thanked him for being a wonderful ambassador for the game. Allen also entertained thoughts on a comeback over the past two years and had several opportunities from title-contending teams. However, he shared that nothing lured him back.
"Basketball will take you far away from that school yard," Allen wrote. "You will become far more than just a basketball player. You'll get to act in movies. You'll travel the world. You will become a husband, and the father of five amazing children."
Jim Calhoun, who coached Allen at UConn from 1993-96, said, "We have had many great players through the years, but Ray is probably the No. 1 name brand we've had. We, at UConn, can all be proud of what he accomplished here and the greatness that he achieved when he went on to the NBA."
Celtics general manager Danny Ainge told ESPN that Allen is one of the greatest shooting guards in the history of basketball. He also defined the word professionalism. Ainge further described Allen as someone who was born with special talent and leadership. Without his tireless preparation and infectious work ethic, Celtics would not have won the 2008 title. Meanwhile, Allen played for 18 seasons in the leagues with Milwaukee, Seattle, the Celtics and the Heat, having an average of 18.9 points in 1,300 regular-season games and appearing in 10 All-Star Games.
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