Nachbar thanks fans, coaches, teammates, family and basketball with an open letter

Bostjan Nachbar announced his retirement and wrote an open letter to fans, coaches, temmates, family and basketball.

"Even though I haven’t stepped on the basketball court for a few months now, I felt that there could still be a possibilty to return and play again. After giving it a lot of thought I realized that the desire to return back to playing simply is not big enough and that I have different priorities than before. My basketball career is over.

I have 20 years of professional basketball behind me. As a young boy from Slovenia I had dreams of playing in big games and in famous arenas full of fans. I made those dreams come true. I worked hard, had lots of luck and a little bit of talent. But I could not write this if I did not have certain people in my life during my career. I would like to use this opportunity to thank them.

Fans - thank you for your support, with national team or with clubs. I always said that I played this game for you and I had incredible fun doing it. It is impossible to describe the energy that I felt because of your cheering during games. I was addicted to it. I will miss this the most.

Teammates - all my teammates throughout my career - thank you for sharing with me the passion for this game. I could never enjoy any success as much as I did, if I could not share it with you. With many of you I have developed friendships on the court, which will stay strong even after basketball.

Coaches - each one of you helped me in your own way. Thank you for being selfless teachers, for making me a better player and a better person. I respect you because you were pushing me, even when I could not do it myself.

My parents - I will always be thankful because you showed me how to follow my path. You recognized the talent that I had and sacrificed a lot, just so I could reach my dreams. I can only hope that I made you proud.

Brother Grega - maybe you will never understand how much you actually helped me. You knew my game to the last detail and knew how to advise me when I need it. Because you did not have the career that you wanted as a player, I wanted to succeed even more. For you. That was always my biggest motivation.

Tara and Ajda - your innocent and cute cheering brought me more satisfaction than all the wins and championships. Your words “Daddy, you’re the best!” meant more to me than what happened on the court. My focus is on you two now and I could not feel more joy because of that. I wish I could play a few more seasons only for you!

Anka - we’ve been together since I was a nobody. You helped me in every step of the way and you gave up your career to help build mine. Wherever we lived, you made that place our home. We went through a lot of ups and downs together. I would’ve given up, but with you by my side I got back up and reached new hights. You are always positive and you always believe. Words “thank you” will never be enough. I love you.

Basketball - for me it was never just a game of wins and losses. Basketball are people, memories, experiences and feelings. Basketball will always be a part of my life. I am excited about what future brings.

Thank you"