Will Barton, the 34-year-old basketball veteran, has announced his retirement from the game after a successful 13-year professional career, including 11 seasons in the NBA. Barton most recently played for the Toronto Raptors and Washington Wizards during the 2022-23 NBA season, where he averaged 6.8 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game. He also shot 37.9% from the field and 36.7% from beyond the arc.
On Wednesday night, Barton took to Instagram to share his heartfelt farewell to basketball, reflecting on his journey and the impact the game has had on his life.
In his post, Barton expressed gratitude for the opportunities he had throughout his career: “13 years pro. 11 years in the NBA. Man, where did the time go?” he wrote. “Crazy when I was young I never saw the end in my vision. But here we are. What a time, I promise it was everything I dreamed of and way more.”
Barton went on to thank his supporters and teammates: “GOD thank you for taking me on this amazing journey & blessing me with not only a talent but a vision & faith. Thanks to everyone who helped me at any stage or was part of this ride at any point. Close or not close, you were needed & I appreciate you.”
He also reflected on his hope of inspiring others, saying, “I pray I gave others hope & inspired some. Ups & downs, it was all worth it, and this game gave me purpose.”
As he looks ahead to his next chapter, Barton noted how basketball taught him invaluable life lessons: “I know that because of you, basketball, I’ll be okay. You taught me to never give up & keep fighting.”
Barton concluded his post by expressing his lasting love for the game: “Thanks for changing my life forever & giving me something to believe in. I will always love you & remember everything you taught me. Cheers to the game forever! Damn we really did it huh… still surreal even though we planned it… Thrill, you did that, shorty no doubt!”
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