J.R. Holden ends playing career

The two-time Euroleague champion, nine-time Russian champion, and champion of Europe Jon Robert Holden left CSKA Moscow as his contract expired and decided to finish his playing career, according to the club’s official website.

«In my mind and in my soul my basketball career is over. It was a tough decision, but I think it’s a great time to say goodbye to the game. However, I never wanted to say never. I still wake up every morning with the thoughts of the beloved game. It’s impossible to predict what life has for you next day.

«I’m going to spend a year promoting my book, working on its Russian version, and perhaps commenting the games of my university team. I will spend more time with my family, especially my daughter who is going to school this year. And still... who knows. Maybe in the future I will work for CSKA Moscow – as a scout or in some other capacity,» Holden said.

The American came to CSKA in 2002 from the Greek club AEK Athens together with the coach Dusan Ivkovic.