Ray Allen announced his retirement from the NBA on Tuesday, ending a career that saw him make more 3-pointers than any player in league history and win championships with Boston and Miami.
Allen, 41, is the final member of the Celtics’ Big Three, which helped bring a title to Boston in 2008, to announce his retirement. Kevin Garnett retired in September and Paul Pierce said over the summer that he would retire after the 2016-17 season.
Allen entertained some ideas about returning to the court, then announced his decision about stepping away in a post published on The Players Tribune. In the post, he says he ‘‘is completely at peace with himself.’’
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Allen came to the Celtics in a trade with the Sonics in the summer of 2007. Shortly after acquiring the sharpshooter, Boston traded for Garnett, forming the Big Three with Pierce. In five seasons with the Celtics, Allen averaged 16.7 points and 2.7 assists per game, shot 47.2 percent from the field, 40.9 percent from 3-point range, and was named an All-Star three times.
“As one of the greatest shooting guards in the history of basketball, Ray Allen defined the word professionalism. Ray was born with special talent, but it was his leadership, tireless preparation, and infectious work ethic that made him a great teammate and champion. We would not have won the 2008 title without him,” Celtics president of basketball operations Danny Ainge said.
He spent 18 seasons in the league with Milwaukee, Seattle, Boston, and Miami. He made 2,973 3-pointers, 413 more than anyone else has to date, and averaged 18.9 points in 1,300 career games.
“Ray was a key member of the Big Three who helped drive us to Banner 17. He is one of the best shooters and clutch players in NBA history, and we were fortunate to be able to witness his magic on the parquet. We wish him well in his retirement,” Celtics managing partner Steve Pagliuca said.
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