Marc Gasol announced his definitive retirement from professional basketball this Wednesday. He acknowledged that the decision was not easy, but clear that it was time to close this chapter and move forward with a life that still has many pages to write.
Marc, many fans wonder how often you imagined this public farewell. How do you respond?
Truthfully, not often. He is not inherently outgoing, and he did not expect celebrations. Yet he felt a strong need to thank those who supported him throughout the years, the people who stood by his side, learned from him, and cheered him on during every step of the journey.
What are the plans ahead after stepping away from the court?
He looks forward to embracing new challenges and exploring a fresh phase in life. He will not rush things, choosing calm and balance, and he intends to savor the wonderful family he has. That is his first priority.
You are a familiar figure who often connected with fans and the public, yet you valued your private time.
Yes, but the demands of a demanding career often kept him from being fully present with his loved ones. Now he seeks to enjoy everyday moments with his daughters and wife, sharing quiet dinners and building memories day by day. He is ready to slow down and be there more than before.
Overcoming difficulties is a cornerstone of his journey
Does happiness come from recognizing himself as Marc Gasol, independent of headlines?
The career brings daily challenges that can shake confidence. There were moments of doubt, but he was fortunate to have people around him who supported him, celebrated with him, and stood with him through the tough times.
What about joy when not competing on the court?
Seeing children play brings genuine joy. The focus shifts away from pure competition to other fulfilling aspects of life. When the competitive fire cools, a different path reveals itself, one rooted in connection and personal growth.
Did the Lakers period erode his enthusiasm?
In the NBA, yes, especially during a difficult two-year stretch shaped by the pandemic. Balancing life in the United States with family in Barcelona reshaped priorities, and aging changed his role in a new team. Sometimes talent ebbs, and a different setting suits the moment better.
A bold move from Lakers to Bàsquet Girona—what prompted it?
It felt right to return and reassess. Bàsquet Girona faced challenges, so the plan was to contribute to the team’s growth by playing in the lower tiers and guiding teammates in a new way, training each day with a steady sense of purpose. It was a personal experiment as much as a basketball decision.
Ricky’s sincerity stands out
After Ricky’s experiences, how does he stay mentally resilient amid daily pressures?
Marc admires the way Ricky handles challenges. He believes facing problems head on, while recognizing needs and pausing when necessary, is a wiser course. He appreciated Ricky taking his own path with grace and honesty.
If Ricky finds happiness in a different direction, should he return to competitive basketball?
Let him pursue what makes him happy. If returning to the court brings him joy, then he should consider it, but only if it truly satisfies him.
Was there a sense of friction with Barça as a playing option due to a shift in priorities?
Early in his career, he focused on developing without standing out. A return after the NBA was considered, but the day-to-day balance and serenity of playing in LEB Oro felt more sustainable than the height of Euroleague demands. He chose a different path.
Did Pesic leave a meaningful imprint among his coaches?
Pesic left a lasting impression and holds a special place in his heart, as do coaches from the national team like Pedro Martínez and Sergio Scariolo. They are all memorable figures in his journey.
If one moment stands out as the peak of his career, what would it be?
The obvious answer would be an NBA championship ring, a testament to beating top opponents. Yet the most profound happiness came from guiding Bàsquet Girona to promotion into the ACB, a moment that defined his broader legacy.
Would he change anything about his career?
He would not change a second. Mistakes taught lessons, and the overall experience feels rightly earned. He feels grateful for the people who accompanied him along the way.
When did he sense the acting journey was nearing its end?
Last season carried a heavy sense of finality. After the final game against Baskonia, there was a quiet recognition that the road might be finished, even as physical quirks faded for a time. Accepting the end came with a certain resistance, but it felt inevitable.
Is there greater pain on certain days than others?
There is pain, indeed, though it manifests differently and with its own weight on each occasion.
When results weren’t favorable, did he consider a return to Bàsquet Girona?
There was a moment where returning would have made sense to help the club and the kids, but it would not have been right for anyone involved. So the plan shifted—to refresh the approach, change leadership, and look ahead with renewed focus.
Will new projects fill his days?
Absolutely. There will be more space to organize, collaborate with the Gasol Foundation and other charitable initiatives. The excitement comes from pursuing meaningful work with renewed energy, and from having the time to chart a thoughtful course for the next chapter.