By Aris Barkas/ barkas@eurohoops.net
Pops Mensah Bonsu confirmed today with an official statement that he is retiring from basketball. One of the best ever British basketball players, Nana Papa Yaw Dwene “Pops” Mensah-Bonsu (born 7 September 1983) played college basketball for George Washington University, played professionally in the NBA and Europe and in 2012 won the triple crown with Besiktas (Eurochallenge, Turkish Cup and Turkish league).
As he announced: “In light of recent events and opportunities that have come up, I have decided to step away from playing professional basketball
This was a very difficult yet humbling decision. I felt that I had a lot left to give to the game of basketball, but sometimes God’s plans for you are not what you have planned for yourself.
The game of basketball, though at times unfair, has been good to me. I have always been a sportsman who took pride in not complaining or feeling sorry for himself. At a young age I learned that you have to play the hand you are dealt!
I have been blessed enough to experience a lot playing professional basketball. From playing in the NBA, internationally, NCAA D1, to representing my country in the Olympics, I have accomplished a great deal. Although I have always set lofty goals, being one of the few to make it from Great Britain to this level is an achievement in itself.
I appreciate all the good and bad times, the highs and lows. The many times when my back was against the wall, I was not only able to show the world, but most importantly myself, where my character lies. Basketball and the relationships I’ve gained from it have molded me into the man I am today. I am glad to say that I used the game as a tool to help me better myself as a person and player.
To everyone that helped and believed in me along the way, there are too many to name but you know who you are; Family, friends, players, trainers, coaches, and fans I THANK YOU!
I take pride in the fact that every time I stepped on the floor it was because of the belief and hard work that was instilled in me. I love you all and wouldn’t be here without your influence.
I will be exchanging my shorts and sneakers for a suit and tie, BUT don’t get it twisted I will still meet you at the rim.
I look forward to this next chapter in my life and what the future holds.
I believe God worked through me because I was never supposed to play for this long or at this level.
Thank you for letting me share my world with you all.
Love
Pops Mensah-Bonsu
#NoMercy “