After suffering a stinger in the San Antonio Spurs recent win over the New York Knicks, point guard T.J. Ford will sit out the rest of this season (indefinite leave of absence) and is considering retirement.
Ford has had an injury-plagued NBA career including spine and neck injuries.
“While this was a tough decision to make, it is what is best for me and my family at this time,” said Ford. “I have been blessed to play alongside wonderful teammates for great coaches and organizations from high school, to college, to the NBA. Regardless of what the future holds, I will carry the experiences, the friendships and the memories with me forever. The support I’ve received from family, friends and the fans has been humbling and I am looking forward to evaluating my professional options following this season.”
“The entire organization has enjoyed having T.J. Ford in San Antonio this season,” said Spurs Head Coach Gregg Popovich. “I congratulate him on all that he has achieved as a player and fully support the difficult decision he was forced to make. T.J. has a bright future ahead of him and will always be a member of the Spurs family.”
Ford signed with the Spurs this season and played back-up point guard to Tony Parker. He played in 14 games for San Antonio and averaged 3.6 points, 3.2 assists and 1.3 rebounds in 13.6 minutes per game. He provided a steady hand and a veteran presence with the Spurs’ second unit.
With Ford sitting out the rest of the season, expect rookie point guard Cory Joseph, and Gary Neal play increased minutes at the back up point guard position. Also, with the trade deadline approaching, one has to wonder if San Antonio will make a move to sign or trade for a point guard.
This season has been hit hard by the injury bug for the Spurs. Manu Ginobili, and Tiago Splitter have sat out games due to injuries.
What do you have to say Spurs fans?
Update: Ford has officially retired.
“Official ‘I Retire from the NBA’ as of today,” Ford posted on his Twitter page. “Thanks to all my fans who follow my career since a kid from all over the world. Basketball has been great to me & my family for 28yrs.
“Today will be a new beginning in life”
