Ex-NBA player Andray Blatche to hang up sneakers after Dubai tilt

Sports

THE upcoming 34th Dubai International Basketball Championship could be the swan song of former NBA player and naturalized Filipino Andray Blatche.

Now 38 years old, Blatche admitted he is mulling retirement and his stint with Strong Group Athletics (SGA) that will represent the Philippines in the Dubai tournament slated January 24 to February 2, could be his last stint as a pro.

“At this age, it’s almost over. At this point, it’s probably my last show actually,” said Blatche in a report by Manila Bulletin.

Blatche talked about his impending retirement while watching a TNT-Converge game in the 49th PBA Commissioner’s Cup on Sunday, January 12.

SGA head coach Charles Tiu is one of the assistant

coaches of Converge.

“I’m getting to the age where it’s almost over. At this point, this might be my last show this year actually, I think this tournament might be my last tournament. Of course, we want to go out with a bang, go out there and win the championship,” Blatche said.

Blatche played for nine years in the NBA. He was the 49th overall pick by the Washington Wizards in the 2009 NBA Draft.

From Washington, Blatche played for the Brooklyn Nets then suited up with various teams overseas.

After he became a naturalized Filipino, Blatched reinforced Gilas to the 2014 FIBA World Cup in Spain. He also played for SGA last year where he teamed up with Dwight Howard and local stars Jordan Heading and Kevin Quiambao. The team finished first runner-up, losing in the championship round against Al Riyadi.

For this year’s tournament, Blatche will partner with fellow ex-NBA player DeMarcus Cousins and top Filipino gunners Dave Ildefonso and Rhenz Abando.

“We’re getting ready for the Dubai tournament. I’m loving it, and there’s some guys from last year,” Blatche said.(CCM)