Sasha Kaun, one of only two Kansas University basketball players, along with Hall of Famer Clyde Lovellette, to win an NCAA title (2008), NBA title (2016) and medal in the Olympic Games (2012 bronze), has decided to retire from pro ball at the age of 31.
The 6-foot-11 Tomsk, Russia, native’s decision comes after a season in which he played in 25 games for the NBA champion Cleveland Cavaliers. Recently he was traded from Cleveland to Philadelphia, a team that immediately released him.
“I was very blessed and fortunate to play as long as I have. I had a great experience for the (Russian) national team and professionally. Overall, it’s been phenomenal,” Kaun said Saturday in a phone conversation with the Journal-World from Colorado, where he lives with his family.