Russian big-man Sasha Kaun has made sure to retire from basketball as a winner.
During the 2015-16 NBA season, the 31-year-old was a member of the Cleveland Cavaliers, posting a total of 23 points and 26 rebounds in his 25 games, with his team going on to win an NBA Championship.
At the end of the season, Kaun was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers and was immediately waived.
Instead of pursuing a spot on another team — and despite his extremely limited time in the league — Kaun has decided to go out on top; announcing his retirement via Gary Bedore of the Lawrence Journal-World.
“I was very blessed and fortunate to play as long as I have. I had a great experience for the (Russian) national team and professionally. Overall, it’s been phenomenal,” Kaun said.
“I want to say thank you to all the fans who have cheered for me in the years I was at KU and followed my career afterward as a professional.”
Kaun is closing the book on an extremely successful — albeit quiet — career.
The 6’11 big-man attended Kansas University, helping the Jayhawks win the 2008 NCAA Championship, before being a member of the bronze medal-winning Russian national team at the 2012 London Olympics.
While Kaun was already coming to the end of his career, an ongoing ankle injury proved to be a catalyst for his decision to retire.
“I kind of feel my ankle has been bothering me awhile. With the amount of pain I was going through, I just wanted to be done,” Kaun said.
“It’s something I’ve had all my career. It was definitely getting worse and worse, year by year. Especially coming here (to the NBA), the intensity of the game I just kind of realised I don’t think I can go and do it any more.
“I said, ‘You know what? I’m not going to be happy playing. I’m not going to be happy not playing. I think it’s a good time to call it quits.’’’
Kaun won’t be remembered as one of the most exciting, athletic, explosive, or spectacular players, but he’ll forever be one of basketball’s great winners, who knew his limits; not even bothering to take on Father Time.
