A legend hangs up his jersey. Danilo Gallinari, a name synonymous with skill and resilience in the NBA, has officially retired from professional basketball. After a remarkable 16-year journey, marked by both triumph and tribulation, the Italian forward is stepping away from the court.
Who is Tim Bontemps? Tim Bontemps is a senior NBA writer for ESPN.com.
Gallinari's NBA career spanned 14 seasons, a testament to his dedication and passion for the game. Drafted sixth overall by the New York Knicks in 2008, he embarked on a journey that would see him don the jerseys of numerous teams, including the Denver Nuggets, LA Clippers, and Boston Celtics, among others. He was one of only 299 players to play at least 14 seasons in the NBA.
His impact extended beyond individual accolades. Gallinari's father, Vittorio Gallinari, played alongside Mike D'Antoni, a longtime NBA coach. Danilo is the second-highest drafted Italian player ever, and his 11,607 points are the most of any Italian player in NBA history.
Gallinari's career wasn't without its challenges. Injuries, particularly ACL tears, sidelined him for significant periods, including two entire seasons. However, when on the court, Gallinari was a formidable offensive force. His 1,456 career three-pointers rank him among the league's elite, and in February 2021, he made history by becoming one of only eight players to hit at least 10 three-pointers off the bench.
His final game in the NBA was Game 6 of the Bucks' first-round loss to the Indiana Pacers in the 2024 NBA playoffs.
What do you think? Were you a fan of Gallinari's game? What are some of your favorite memories of his career? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
