Ricky Rubio has decided to step away from basketball as he wants to put his mental health first. This announcement came in a statement via the Spanish Baseball Federation (FEB).

“I have decided to stop my professional activity to take care of my mental health. I want to thank all the support I have received from the FEB to understand my decision. Today #Family makes more sense than ever. Thank you. I ask to respect my privacy to be able to face these moments and to be able to give more information when the time is right.”

When the NBA’s Cleveland Cavaliers decided to sign Rubio in 2021 he was playing the best basketball of his career, that year was a resurgence for his career. The 12-year NBA veteran had a subpar year for the Cavs last season as he worked back from a torn ACL, the second of his career, suffered during the 2021-22 season.

Rubio was drafted with the fifth pick in the first round of the 2009 NBA Draft by the Minnesota Timberwolves. Rubio suffered his first ACL injury as a member of the T-Wolves which would lead him to becoming a journeyman throughout his NBA career. Despite that Ricky is beloved throughout the NBA and many players and organizations love his knowledge and appreciate his impact on and off the court.

Mental health is becoming more important to athletes and they’re openly talking about it more frequently. Athletes are realizing the massive impact that strong mental health can have in life and want to share their struggles and stories to better society.

Article by: Brandon Larador

*photo courtesy of clevelanddotcom*