Richard Jefferson is going out on top.
Following the Cleveland Cavaliers’ 93-89 victory over the Golden State Warriors in Game 7 of the NBA Finals, the 35-year-old announced that he’s retiring from the NBA.
“I’m retiring. I’m retiring. I’m retiring,” Jefferson told Allie Clifton of Fox Sports Ohio.
Jefferson turned out to be a surprising key contributor in the NBA Finals, appearing in over 25 minutes of action in five of the seven games against Golden State. The small forward, who entered the NBA more than 15 years ago, turned back the clock playing big minutes for Cleveland. Whether it was chipping in needed points, playing shockingly solid defense, or just being a team leader, Jefferson was a huge plus for Cleveland. He was rewarded with his first NBA Championship due to his strong play.
Jefferson’s Championship-turn was brought on by an offseason change of mind. It appeared he was going to re-sign with the Dallas Mavericks, but Jefferson changed his mind last minute and signed a one-year deal with the Cavaliers in hopes they’d bring him a title. Mission accomplished.
While Jefferson was a role player on the Cavs, he was a legit scorer on the Jason Kidd-led New Jersey Nets in the early to mid-2000s, averaging 20+ points twice. Jefferson also had stints with the Milwaukee Bucks, San Antonio Spurs, Golden State, Utah Jazz, and Dallas.
What a fantastic way to end a great career. Congratulations to you, Richard Jefferson.
