ANDRAY Blatche revealed that the upcoming stint with Strong Group Athletics in the Dubai International Basketball Championship will be his last as a player.
The 38-year-old Blatche said he will be retiring from active competition after a playing career that saw him suit up for Gilas Pilipinas as a naturalized player from 2014 to 2019.
“I’m getting to the age where it’s almost over. At this point, this might be my last show this year actually,” said Blatche.
READ: Abando, Ildefonso finally resurface at SGA for Dubai tournament
Blatche said he wants to finish his playing career with a championship, hoping that SGA would capture the crown this time after a runner-up finish last year.
“I think this tournament might be my last tournament. Of course, we want to go out with a bang and go out there and win the championship,” he continued.
Blatche said he is still thinking about a career in basketball after his playing days are over.
“If anything next, it’d be a little bit of coaching, you know, something in that area.”
Ready for the Boogie
Blatche said he arrived in Manila on Thursday to join in the preparations, and is looking forward to teaming up with fellow former NBA player DeMarcus Cousins.
“We had two practices so far with SGA. Getting ready for the Dubai tournament. I’m loving it. There’s some guys from last year,” said Blatche.
“Me and him played a lot together back when we were younger, high school. I feel like this is going to be tough for teams to cover definitely because we both can shoot, both can handle the ball, and make smart passes."
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