Rudy Gobert shares emotional farewell message to Utah Jazz fans / News - Basketnews.com

Credit: USA TODAY Sports-SCANPIX Credit USA TODAY Sports-SCANPIX

Rudy Gobert confirmed on his social networks that he's leaving Utah Jazz, his team since his NBA debut in 2014, where he "grew up in as a man and as a player".

2-pointers this season

57%26,1Points made:26,1Accuracy:56,6%Place in standings:26Record max:38Record min:17Most made 2FGs:Donovan MitchellTeamNBAStatisticsSchedule

The French international said goodbye to Utah Jazz supporters, whom he left to everyone's surprise as part of a transfer to the Minnesota Timberwolves. He had been playing there since 2014.

“Utah!!! I was just a kid from France when I got here 9 years ago but I felt embraced and supported since day one. I’ve grown as a man and as a player before your very eyes and I'm thankful for every single moment.

Utah and its community will always have a special place in my heart. Thank you! The journey continues… Much love," wrote the 30-year-old Olympic silver medalist.

The 2.16m center will be sent to Minnesota against five players (Malik Beasley, Patrick Beverley, Walker Kessler, Jarred Vanderbilt and Leandro Bolmaro) and four first-round draft picks in the coming years (2023, 2025, 2027 and 2029). He is expected to form a formidable pair in the Timberwolves lineup alongside another top big man, Karl-Anthony Towns, who has reportedly extended his four-year tenure in Minnesota for nearly $215 million.

Named as the NBA's best defender three times in 2018, 2019 and 2021, Rudy Gobert has been selected three times for the NBA All Star Game. Recognized for his defensive qualities, he was one of the centerpieces of the Salt Lake City team with guard Donovan Mitchell, even if the Jazz never managed to live up to the expectations they created, as they were eliminated from the first round by Dallas.

In December 2020, Gobert had signed a contract with Utah which was one of the largest ever signed in the NBA, worth more than $195 million over five years.

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