Longhorns Legend LaMarcus Aldridge Retires for Second Time

Former Texas Longhorns forward LaMarcus Aldridge spent two seasons in Austin, averaging 13.5 points and 8.2 rebounds during his time on the Forty Acres.

© Tim Heitman, USA TODAY

AUSTIN -- Texas Longhorns legend LaMarcus Aldridge has officially retired from the NBA for a second time after a 16-year career, he announced on social media Friday.

"In the words of TB12, you only get one big, emotional retirement… so, on that note…I’m thankful for all the memories, family and friends I made throughout my career. It was one hell of a ride and I enjoyed every min! 12," Aldridge tweeted.

The diehard Longhorn spent two seasons in Austin, taking Texas to the Elite 8 in 2008. He averaged 13.5 points and 8.2 rebounds during his time on the Forty Acres.

Aldridge, a seven-time All-Star and five-time All-NBA selection, had previously retired in April 2021 during his time with the Brooklyn Nets due to the discovery of a heart condition, but returned to the team in September of that year after it was deemed safe.

He joined the Nets in March 2021 after being waived by the San Antonio Spurs, who he had played the previous five seasons with. Aldridge was originally drafted No. 2 overall in 2006 by the Chicago Bulls before being traded to the Portland Trail Blazers on draft night.

He then spent the next nine seasons in Portland, where he became one of the league's most dangerous scoring threats in the post and from mid-range.

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You can follow Zach Dimmitt on Twitter at @ZachDimmitt7

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