Entering this season, Ricky Rubio was likely set to be the backup point guard for the Cleveland Cavaliers.
However, after stepping away from basketball this offseason to address his mental health, he unfortunately did not suit up for the Wine and Gold again.
Rubio and Cleveland eventually agreed to a contract buyout last month, and the veteran point guard announced his retirement from the NBA soon after.
Then, earlier this month, the 33-year-old signed a contract with FC Barcelona of Liga ACB in Spain for the remainder of this season, a team he used to play for before being drafted to the NBA in 2009.
On Monday, he was officially introduced as a member of FC Barcelona in a press conference.
During the event, Rubio expressed his gratitude for the Cavaliers and their efforts to help him with his mental health.
“I want to thank the Cleveland Cavaliers as well. I would’ve never imagined having an organization like that going through a tough time like I went and having my back. Not pressuring me at all to come back. I wish I could’ve been there, but I gave my all, and I didn’t have anything left.”
He also explained that multiple members of Cleveland's organization will remain close to him for the rest of his life.
“And they’ve supported me since day one. They were giving me resources to really help with my mental health, and they’ve been unbelievable. [President of Basketball Operations] Koby [Altman], [General Manager] Mike [Gansey], [Head Coach] J.B. [Bickerstaff]. Thank you, for real. You will have a special place in my heart forever.”
More must-reads: