The NBA legend and Dallas Mavericks champion JJ Barea has officially announced his retirement from basketball. The two have always complemented each other whenever they played together. Baria played 14 seasons in the NBA which 11 were including Mavericks in two separate sessions. We have all witnessed his growth and growing up the ladder from being a rookie to a veteran leader and virtual coach in uniform. The Mavericks brought him back for training camp the following year with a guaranteed contract, but they let go of him before the regular season started. Barea was very emotional in his final press conference as he was supposed to say goodbye to everyone, including Mavericks, after the legendary and memorable run.
Barea up the ladder
Barea’s contribution to the Mavericks cannot be ever forgotten, especially after his play in the NBA finals in 2011, as he may not have been in the limelight, but he was one of the reasons for the team’s success. After sitting on the bench throughout the season with Miami Heat, he was never considered a top prospect for the team and entered the final three games of the NBA finals. He continued to play professionally. He first carved out a role and showed off his excellent pick and roll skills in Spain with Estudiantes. For his last two seasons, Barea traveled back to his native Puerto Rico. He announced his retirement to his country on social media. He received a lot of appreciation and congratulated him on his retirement.
Career as a Coach
In Puerto Rico, Barea is a legend who merely adored the game. The 38-year-old is happy to wear his sneakers and show up at any game despite missing his final match due to a leg injury. Before returning to basketball, he might have mentioned a break. He presently works for the Mavericks as a part-timer and has shown his desire to coach the team one day. He even said that he expects to get a Coaching Role with the Mavericks, eventually in the future, as he was officially involved with a team during, the 2021 NBA summer league. He thinks, he may have tremendous opportunities in front of him because the coaching roles are well suited for him.