Guy Pnini retires, joins Maccabi coaching staff / News - Basketnews.com

Guy Pnini retires from active play at the age of 39.

Credit: Fotodiena.lt Credit Fotodiena.lt

One of the biggest chapters in the Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv history has ended, and another is beginning. Guy Pnini retires from active play at the age of 39.

Guy Pnini

Position:PFAge:39Height:201 cmWeight:90 kgBirth place:IsraelProfileNewsStatistics

Despite holding a contract option for another season, he has chosen to transition into a coaching role under the guidance of Oded Kattash.

"Today marks the conclusion of a meaningful phase in my life as I retire from active play," Pnini said in the press conference. "I can vividly recall being a spirited 6-year-old on the Katsal team, filled with excitement at the prospect of donning the Maccabi Tel Aviv jersey. Now, at the age of 39, I stand before you, still that boy at heart, bidding a fond farewell to this jersey. As an athlete, you are afraid of the words, 'I retire.'

"I really wanted to continue playing, but my legs said enough," he continued. "I feel lucky. I experienced moments of happiness and difficulty that only shaped me as a person. I complete my path."

Returning to Maccabi Tel Aviv last summer, Pnini etched his name into history by breaking the record for Israeli League appearances. The 2022-23 season concluded with him amassing an impressive 521 games in the league, along with securing his fifth championship title.

This accomplishment adds to his illustrious accolades, including the coveted EuroLeague championship in 2014, 11 State Cups, the Adriatic League championship, and four victories in the Winner Cup.

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