Meyers Leonard Announces Retirement from Basketball
Former NBA center Meyers Leonard has officially announced his retirement from professional basketball. The 2012 NBA lottery pick, selected 11th overall by the Portland Trail Blazers, played nine seasons in the league, making a lasting impact as a skilled stretch big man.
Leonard, 32, revealed his decision in a heartfelt statement, expressing gratitude for his career while citing personal and professional considerations for stepping away. “Basketball has given me so much, but after deep reflection, I’ve decided it’s time to move on to the next chapter of my life,” Leonard shared.
Standing 7 feet tall, Leonard was known for his three-point shooting and floor-spacing ability as a center. After spending seven seasons with the Trail Blazers, he was traded to the Miami Heat in 2019, where he played a key role in the team’s run to the NBA Finals in 2020. However, injuries and off-court controversies disrupted his career, leading to a brief absence from the league.
Leonard later returned to the NBA with the Milwaukee Bucks in 2023 after completing a rehabilitation process and demonstrating personal growth. While his playing time was limited in his final seasons, he remained a respected veteran presence in the locker room.
Beyond basketball, Leonard has expressed interest in business ventures and media work, hinting at a future in broadcasting or entrepreneurship. His retirement marks the end of a career filled with highs and lows, but he leaves the game with appreciation for the opportunities it provided.
As he steps away from the court, Leonard’s focus now shifts to life after basketball, where he hopes to make an impact in new ways.
