Former Portland Trail Blazers beloved player Rudy Fernandez has formally announced his retirement from professional basketball after an illustrious 24-year career, as reported by Real GM.
At 39 years old, Fernandez was initially drafted by the Phoenix Suns as the 24th pick in 2007, but was promptly traded to the Blazers along with James Jones. He swiftly endeared himself to fans during his tenure with the Blazers, establishing himself as a prominent figure in the league.
After a year with Joventut in the Spanish Liga ACB, Fernandez joined the Blazers for the 2008-09 season and made a significant impact, finishing ninth in Rookie of the Year voting and being selected for the All NBA Rookie second team. Over his three seasons with Portland, Fernandez started nine out of 218 games, averaging 9.1 points, 2.5 rebounds, 2.2 assists, and 1.0 steals in 24.1 minutes per game.
Following the 2011 offseason and NBA lockout, Fernandez was traded to the Dallas Mavericks and then to the Denver Nuggets. Regrettably, his time with the Nuggets was curtailed due to a back injury, prompting his return to Spain in 2012.
Fernandez then spent the subsequent 12 years with Real Madrid, where he continued to make a substantial impact, averaging 10.9 points, 3.3 rebounds, 2.2 assists, and 1.3 steals. His tenure with Real Madrid was distinguished by numerous accomplishments, including three EuroLeague titles, six Liga ACB titles, and several individual accolades.
In addition to his club success, Fernandez also enjoyed a distinguished international career, representing Spain in multiple Olympic Games (Beijing, London, and Rio), earning two silver medals and one bronze medal. He also played a pivotal role in Spain’s gold-winning performances at the 2006 and 2019 FIBA World Cup.
Fernandez’s retirement signals the conclusion of an extraordinary basketball journey replete with myriad achievements and indelible moments. As he bids farewell to the game, fans and fellow athletes are celebrating his remarkable career and the enduring impact he has had on the sport.
The basketball community is unquestionably appreciative of Fernandez’s contributions, and his legacy will continue to inspire the next generation of players for years to come. We extend our best wishes to Rudy Fernandez in his well-deserved retirement and anticipate witnessing his ongoing influence on the basketball world in new capacities.