(NEWSWATCH33) – Kenyon Martin, former number one draft pick of the NBA, has announced his retirement after 15 seasons with the NBA.
The NBA’s first overall pick of the 2000 NBA Draft stats averaged 12.3 points, 6.8 rebounds and 1.1 blocks in 757 NBA games from 2000 to 2015.
Thanks to all the fans that supported me over the years,” Martin, 37, said, according to Yahoo!’s Marc J. Spears. “But a time does come when you have to walk away, and the time is now for me. I’m ready for the next chapter of my life. I would like to thank the Nets, Nuggets, Clippers, Knicks and Bucks for the opportunity to play the game that I love.”
Martin’s decision to retire from the NBA partially stemmed from his last season with the Milwaukee Bucks, coached by his former New Jersey Nets teammate, Jason Kidd, who decided not to resign him to the remaining part of the season last February. Most of Martin’s success in the NBA was in the early 2000’s where he lead the former New Jersey Nets to two back to back Finals appearances.
Martin has expressed his interest in becoming a college or NBA as part of his future endeavors. Martin has a 14 year old son who he believes will be successful in the NBA with his help.
“I have family time and business ahead,” Martin said. “And if something coaching comes up (basketball-wise), I will consider it. I’m also getting Kenyon Jr. ready to be the No. 1 pick in a couple of years.”
