Clippers forward Paul Pierce to retire at season's end

Clippers forward Paul Pierce says he will retire at the end of the 2016–17 season.

Los Angeles Clippers forward Paul Pierce will retire at the end of the 2016–17 season, he announced in a post published by the Players' Tribune.

Pierce, 38, will be entering his 19th NBA season and said he is at peace with the decision to retire. He also says he is eager to win a championship with the Clippers.

"After 18 NBA years, it’s hard to believe I’ll be playing in each arena for the last time," Pierce said. "So I’m going to enjoy every practice, every bus ride, every team dinner, every time running out through the tunnel. I’m going to do my part to give us a shot at the ultimate goal.

Pierce was selected in the first round of the 1998 NBA draft and spent his first 15 seasons with the Boston Celtics, helping the franchise win their 17th NBA title in 2008 and earning NBA Finals MVP honors.

He also played for the Brooklyn Nets, Washington Wizards and spent last season with the Clippers.

Pierce signed a three-year, $10 million deal with the Clippers before last season.

Over his career, Pierce was named an NBA All-Star 10 times and enters this season fourth on the all-time list in three-point field goals made. He has averaged 20 points, 5.7 rebounds and 3.6 assists per game in his career.

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