Three-Time All-NBA Star Announces Decision on Retirement

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ayomide Adeduyite | Last updated May 31, 2025 5:35 PM ET

The Denver Nuggets' 2024-25 campaign concluded with a hard-fought seven-game series loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference semifinals. Despite a valiant effort, the Nuggets were unable to overcome the Thunder's youth, led by MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

Despite being far from their best at times this season, the series highlighted the competitive spirit of the Nuggets, who pushed the top-seeded Thunder to the brink. Central to Denver's success was Nikola Jokic, who delivered another MVP-caliber season.

Over 70 regular-season games, Jokic averaged 29.6 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 10.2 assists per game, and finished top three in all three major stats. However, Jokic wasn't the only center for the Nuggets this season.

Three-time All-NBA team member DeAndre Jordan just completed his 17th NBA and third in Denver. Serving as a seasoned presence off the bench, Jordan contributed 3.7 points and 5.1 rebounds per game, shooting an efficient 65.0% from the field over 56 appearances.

Following the season's end, Jordan took to Instagram where he announced he is not retiring, and will return for an 18th NBA season.

"Season 17 in the books," he began. "Man, can’t say enough how grateful I am for this team, this city, and everyone who supported us along the way. Playing this game never gets old, and doing it with this group made it even more meaningful. Big love to the Mile High fans, y’all brought the energy every night. And to my friends, family, and everyone who’s been in my corner thank you for the love. PS: this isn’t a retirement post!"

Jordan's career began in 2008 when he was drafted 35th overall by the Los Angeles Clippers. Over a decade with the Clippers, he became the franchise leader in games played, rebounds, and blocks. His tenure included stints with the Dallas Mavericks, New York Knicks, Brooklyn Nets, Los Angeles Lakers, Philadelphia 76ers, and Denver Nuggets, where he won a championship in 2023.

When Jordan was released by the Lakers in 2022, there was speculation that could be the end of his NBA career. Instead, he went on to join the 76ers and ultimately Denver where he has spent the last three seasons.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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