Nando De Colo announces retirement after current Fenerbahçe season in exclusive interview

Nando De Colo has officially announced his retirement plans in an extensive interview with BeBasket, confirming that the current season with Fenerbahçe will mark the end of his remarkable basketball career. The 38-year-old French guard made the declaration while discussing his recent injury struggles and adaptation to life back in Turkey.

Injury concerns during crucial period

The veteran player is currently dealing with a calf injury, specifically around the tendon area, which has sidelined him during a critical phase of the season. De Colo explained the delicate nature of his recovery process: « It’s not necessarily the muscle that’s affected, but the tendon. You feel the pain a little less as the days go by. However, you have to be more careful, especially when I come back, to continue acting as if I’m still injured, to keep the same program and continue working with the physio and physical trainer. »

The timing of the injury has proven particularly frustrating for the experienced guard, as Fenerbahçe enters the decisive phase of the season. The circumstances surrounding the injury were especially unfortunate – De Colo was originally scheduled to rest but was called into action after a teammate fell ill overnight. « It happened in a match where I was supposed to be resting, but a player got sick during the night, so I replaced him. On a step up, to jump, I immediately felt something pull, » he recalled.

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Difficult decision to leave comfort zone

De Colo’s return to Fenerbahçe mid-season surprised many, particularly given his family’s settled situation at ASVEL. The French star acknowledged the complexity of leaving a comfortable environment: « At first, it wasn’t an easy decision because even though I don’t like having a certain routine basketball-wise, being in a dynamic, even if it’s not the best dynamic, you’re good, you’re at home, you’re in a routine you know. »

The decision required balancing his competitive instincts with family considerations, as De Colo emphasized how basketball and life around basketball are never completely separate for him. While he appreciates avoiding rigid routines as a player, he recognizes the enormous value of family stability.

Legacy of an exceptional career

As De Colo prepares to conclude his playing days, he does so with a sense of gratitude and accomplishment. His career has been marked by numerous successes across Europe’s elite competitions, and his departure will undoubtedly mark the end of an era in European basketball. The French guard’s professional approach and attention to detail have defined his lengthy career, qualities that remain evident even as he manages his final season’s challenges.

With Fenerbahçe entering the most crucial phase of their campaign, De Colo’s experience and leadership will be vital as he seeks to cap his illustrious career with one final achievement.