If Kevin Garnett had decided to retire after last season, few would have been shocked to hear the news.
After the worst season of his career and a disappointing playoff elimination for the Brooklyn Nets, it would have been understandable for Garnett to want to throw in the towel, especially after longtime teammate Paul Pierce chose to depart for the Washington Wizards in his free agency.
But the 38-year-old former Boston Celtic has decided to play out the last year of his contract, which is worth $12 million.
Garnett admitted that he had thought about retirement but determined that basketball was a priority.
“The decision is either yes or no,” Garnett said, via the New York Daily News. “It’s not like 50-50, I’m in the middle of the road or gray area. I’m a person that when you commit to something, you commit to it. It’s that simple.”
He is set to be the Nets’ starting power forward for his 20th season despite his lack of production last year.
“I’m very much motivated,” Garnett said. “I’m looking to have a better year than last year, and I’m looking to enjoy this year.”
Coach Lionel Hollins has alluded to the possibility of Garnett seeing more minutes if he can stay healthy, but he struggled with back spasms last season.
“I still have something to give to the game, to this team, and my mindset has always been to be better than I was last year or to be better than I was yesterday,” Garnett said. “So I’m not going to change that.”
Photo via Adam Hunger/USA TODAY Sports Images
