Richard Jefferson announces retirement after 15-year career

After the Cavaliers’ NBA Finals victory, veteran forward Richard Jefferson announced his retirement plans.

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After the Cavaliers’ NBA Finals victory, veteran forward Richard Jefferson announced his retirement plans.

“I am retiring. I am retiring,” Jefferson said, in an interview with Fox Sports Ohio. He said as much later in the Cavaliers’ postgame celebration, adding, “I need a cigar.”

Jefferson, a first-round pick of the Rockets, just finished his 15th season in the league. He started Game 3 of the Finals, playing 33 minutes in place of Kevin Love and played a big role in the team’s series victory.

Richard Jefferson announces his retirement to @FSOAllieOop on @cavs Live postgame

STREAM: https://t.co/PVOvJghtO4 https://t.co/k3Rr2ki9g0

— Bally Sports Cincinnati (@BallySportsCIN) June 20, 2016

A very, very, happy Richard Jefferson just told me in Cavs room he's retiring. "I'm done. I'm done." And then -- "I need a cigar"

— Michael Grange (@michaelgrange) June 20, 2016

Jefferson, who turns 36 on Tuesday, began his career in New Jersey with the Nets, before spending time with the Bucks, Spurs, Warriors, Jazz and Mavericks. 

– Kenny Ducey