UPDATE: NBA veteran Danilo Gallinari has officially announced his retirement from professional basketball after a triumphant final season in Puerto Rico, culminating in a BSN Championship. Gallinari, 37, made headlines last week as he reflected on a chaotic brawl involving former All-Star DeMarcus Cousins during a game on June 9, which led to Cousins’ suspension.
In a candid interview, Gallinari revealed that he was the catalyst behind the altercation, admitting, “I hit him in his eye twice,” which ignited tensions between fans and players. This incident has overshadowed Gallinari’s remarkable journey in Puerto Rico, where he played his final season with the Vaqueros de Bayamon, winning the championship and earning the title of Finals MVP.
Gallinari’s decision to play in Puerto Rico was driven by his “pure love for basketball” and a desire to maintain his game before competing for the Italian national team in this fall’s EuroBasket tournament. “I wanted to finish playing at a high level,” he stated, highlighting the competitive nature of the BSN league.
The BSN has become a haven for former NBA talent, with players like JaVale McGee and Chris Duarte also participating. Gallinari found himself playing over 35 minutes a game, a refreshing change after his previous NBA seasons where he faced numerous injuries.
However, Gallinari’s final chapter took a terrifying turn on July 31, when his wife, Eleonora Boi, was bitten by a shark while they enjoyed a family day at Isla Verde Beach. Thankfully, both Boi and their unborn child are safe, marking a close call for the family.
With his retirement now confirmed, Gallinari reflects on a career that has spanned over 16 years in the NBA, where he faced injuries but also celebrated significant achievements. His path included stints with the New York Knicks, Denver Nuggets, Atlanta Hawks, and others. “It was an amazing career, but without injuries, we are talking legendary,” Gallinari expressed.
As he steps away from the court, Gallinari is set to focus on his growing family, now including three children. He aims to create lasting memories with them, stating, “I want to be able to play with them at a high intensity.”
With this announcement, Gallinari leaves behind a legacy marked not only by his skills on the court but also by his resilience in overcoming challenges. Fans and teammates alike have praised his commitment and passion for the game, solidifying his place in basketball history.
As Gallinari embarks on this new chapter, his journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes worldwide.
