After a decade and a half as a globetrotting pro basketball player, Rick Rickert has decided that it's time to begin the next phase of his life.
The 35-year-old's retirement was made official last weekend. The Ibaraki Robots, for whom Rickert played the past two seasons, posted an announcement on their website on Saturday.
During his long, successful career, Rickert provided energy, interior muscle and a solid all-around game for five Japan pro basketball franchises: Kyoto Hannaryz, Osaka Evessa, Wakayama Trians, Chiba Jets and Ibaraki. He was a stabilizing force in the low post and an intelligent, fundamentally sound frontcourt leader.