French basketball star Nicolas Batum has announced his retirement from professional basketball after an 18-year career in the NBA. Batum, a two-time Olympic silver medalist with the French national team, made the announcement in a video posted on Instagram on September 21, 2026. In the emotional video, Batum shared his decision with his young son, citing a desire to spend more time with family and make way for other players.
Throughout his career, Batum played for several top NBA teams, including the Portland Trail Blazers, Charlotte Hornets, Philadelphia 76ers, and Los Angeles Clippers. The 6-foot-7 forward was renowned for his versatility, defensive prowess, and high basketball IQ, earning him the nickname "Batman." Batum's NBA career spanned 18 seasons, during which he made over 1,200 appearances.
Batum's international career was also illustrious, with two Olympic silver medals won at the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympics. He also won a European championship in 2013 and served as captain of the French national team. Batum's retirement marks the end of an era for French basketball, which has seen significant success in recent years.
The announcement of Batum's retirement was met with congratulations from across the NBA community. The Philadelphia 76ers and the official NBA account paid tribute to his achievements, praising his incredible 18-year career. Batum's decision to retire was made on September 21, the anniversary of his father's passing, who was also a professional basketball player.
Batum's journey to the NBA began in French domestic basketball, where he was eventually drafted as a first-round pick by the Portland Trail Blazers. His move to the NBA marked the beginning of a successful career that would see him play for some of the biggest teams in the league.
In his retirement video, Batum explained that he had decided to retire for several reasons, including a desire to come home and be with his family. He expressed a sense of contentment with his career, stating that he had "done his time" and that it was time to "know when to stop."
As news of his retirement spread, fans and fellow players alike paid tribute to Batum's achievements on and off the court. With a storied career in both French and international basketball, Nicolas Batum leaves behind a lasting legacy that will be remembered for years to come.
Key points
- Nicolas Batum played for several top NBA teams, including the Portland Trail Blazers, Charlotte Hornets, Philadelphia 76ers, and Los Angeles Clippers.
- Batum won two Olympic silver medals with the French national team at the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympics.
- Batum announced his retirement in a video posted on Instagram on September 21, 2026, citing a desire to spend more time with his family.
