Minnesota Timberwolves fans got familiar with Ricky Rubio when the franchise drafted him in 2009, and he made his debut in 2011. He quickly became a popular figure in the fan base because he played an exciting brand of basketball.
He was a mainstay on the Timberwolves' roster for six seasons, from 2011 to 2017, before being traded to the Utah Jazz. Rubio played for the Phoenix Suns for a season before making a big return to the Timberwolves to play the 2020-21 season.
Minnesota Timberwolves guard Ricky Rubio (9) dribbles in the second half against the Detroit Pistons at Little Caesars Arena.
Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
Rubio was a fan favorite during his years in Minnesota. He was one of the most entertaining players to have ever played for the Timberwolves, as he made the flashy passes look easy.
At the same time, he had a sweet personality that endeared him to the Timberwolves fan base. He never lost his love for the fans, who, in turn, returned that love across his two stints with the franchise.
However, it appears he is stepping away from basketball entirely, as indicated by a thoughtful message on his social media.
Rubio Thanked All His Supporters In Cryptic X Post
After stepping away from basketball in August 2023 to prioritize his mental health, the next time people heard from him was in January 2024, when he officially retired from the NBA.
He made sporadic posts throughout 2024 while playing for FC Barcelona, but his latest post has caught some people's attention, as it might be a hint towards his full retirement from basketball.
"I took this year to reflect on my career and my life, and I’ve realized that if I’ve gotten to where I am today, it’s not because of the assists I’ve given, but because of the assists I’ve received. This isn’t a goodbye, it’s a thank you to all the people who have helped me along the way," Rubio wrote on his X account.
Rubio Deserves The Love From The Basketball Community
It was a tough time for Rubio in the summer of 2023 because he had to step away from the best basketball league in the world.
He kept playing in Europe for Barcelona, but he has not played since 2024. This post might have been his retirement announcement, but it is not a full confirmation of his decision.
At only 34, Rubio can still play for Barcelona or any other European team. He has closed the door for a return to the NBA, which leaves him some options in Europe if he decides to play again.
In the meantime, you can expect fans in the United States to keep singing his praises whether that's from Timberwolves fans or the Cleveland Cavaliers fans who loved him during his final stint in the league.