In a heartfelt statement released on Thursday, Ricky Rubio confirmed that his NBA career has come to a close. This comes after reports of a buyout agreement between Rubio and the Cleveland Cavaliers surfaced.

The 33-year-old veteran had previously announced in August that his basketball career was on hold indefinitely due to ongoing mental health issues. In his statement, Rubio provided further insight into the challenges he faced.

Reflecting on a pivotal moment, Rubio wrote, "July 30th was one of the toughest nights of my life. My mind went to a dark place. I kind of knew I was going in that direction, but I've never thought I wasn't under control of the situation. The next day, I decided to stop my professional career."

Having played in the NBA for an impressive 12 years, Rubio began his basketball journey when he was drafted by the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2009. Throughout his career, Rubio showcased his skills and became known for his playmaking abilities.

Expressing gratitude towards the Cleveland Cavaliers, Rubio acknowledged his time with the organization. "Special mention to Cleveland. My last home. I know the way things ended have been tough. I could never have imagined the year would develop this way, but you have an amazing organization, with Koby and JB, who have been extremely respectful and understanding of my situation and caring for me as a person."

Rubio's decision to prioritize his mental health serves as a reminder of the significance of addressing these struggles openly. The support he received from the Cavaliers organization highlights the growing awareness and empathy within the NBA toward mental health issues faced by players.

As Rubio steps away from his professional basketball career, fans and fellow players alike applaud his bravery in sharing his story and prioritizing his well-being. His contributions to the game will be remembered, and he leaves behind a lasting impact on the court and beyond.