The 7-footer, acquired during the 2007-08 season, teamed with Kobe Bryant to win two NBA titles in his seven seasons in L.A.
Pau Gasol’s career ended where it began: the distant shores of Spain, where he learned to love basketball. Gasol,41, announced his retirement from the sport Tuesday at a press conference, ending a two-decade career that traipsed through Memphis, Chicago, San Antonio, Milwaukee and Portland – but never reached greater heights than his seven seasons with the Lakers when he won two championships. The Spanish power forward with feathery touch and ferocious competitiveness helped elevate the franchise back to the top of the NBA, winning titles in 2009 and 2010 during a run of three straight Finals alongside Kobe Bryant. Gasol played abroad last season, but he winds up his NBA career with 19 seasons, six All-Star appearances, four All-NBA nods and top-50 spots in career points and rebounds.
