Piraeus, Greece – French basketball star Evan Fournier, currently playing for Olympiacos, has signaled his intention to retire after the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. The 33-year-vintage guard revealed his plans in a recent interview with L’Équipe, citing a desire to spend more time with his family after a long and accomplished career.
Fournier, who signed with Olympiacos last July, intends to honor his contract with the Greek club before calling it a career. “To be honest, I think I’ll finish this contract and then retire. I won’t continue beyond that,” he told L’Équipe. While his competitive drive remains strong, the demands of professional basketball, particularly the constant travel, have taken a toll.
The veteran player explained that a growing desire to be present in his children’s lives is a major factor in his decision. “I want to be with my children, travel with my wife, and enjoy the life I haven’t had until now because basketball took up everything,” Fournier said. He acknowledged briefly considering retirement after the 2024 Paris Olympics, but the competitive urge quickly returned, leading him to Greece for “one last adventure.”
Fournier’s journey has spanned 12 seasons in the NBA, playing for the Denver Nuggets, Orlando Magic, Boston Celtics, New York Knicks, and Detroit Pistons before making the move to Europe. He nearly walked away from the game when NBA opportunities didn’t meet his expectations, questioning whether he wanted to rebuild at that stage of his career.
Despite the physical and emotional demands, Fournier remains focused on achieving success with Olympiacos and representing France on the international stage. He is aiming to contribute to a championship run in the EuroLeague and compete in the 2027 FIBA World Cup, should France qualify. He recently met with the French national team’s head coach, Frédéric Fauthoux, signaling his continued commitment to Les Bleus.
Fournier is a decorated player for the French national team, having won silver medals at both the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and the 2024 Paris Olympics. He’s now setting his sights on a potential third Olympic medal in Los Angeles, a fitting end to a distinguished international career. He playfully stated, “Yes, it’s categorical. Finally, I will come… If they call me,” referring to a potential invitation from coach Fauthoux.
The decision to retire after 2028 allows Fournier to plan for the future and prioritize his family life. He’s already begun to contemplate life beyond the court, envisioning more time for personal pursuits and quality time with loved ones. This isn’t a sudden decision, but rather a carefully considered step towards a new chapter.
Fournier’s move to Olympiacos has been a success thus far. In 37 EuroLeague games last season, he averaged 16.1 points, 2.2 rebounds, 1.1 interceptions, and 2.6 assists. He helped lead the team to the EuroLeague Final Four, demonstrating he still possesses a high level of play. He was also named to the All-EuroLeague Second Team in his debut season with the club.
The veteran guard’s announcement comes as he continues to adapt to life in Greece, embracing the culture and the passionate fanbase of Olympiacos. He has spoken positively about his experience, describing the club as welcoming and supportive. His commitment to the team is evident in his decision to sign a three-year contract extension, ensuring his presence in Piraeus through 2028.
For fans of French basketball, Fournier’s impending retirement will mark the end of an era. He has been a consistent presence on the national team for over a decade, inspiring a generation of players and captivating audiences with his skill and athleticism. His leadership and experience will be sorely missed, but his legacy will undoubtedly endure.
As Fournier looks ahead to the 2028 Olympics, he remains focused on maximizing his remaining time on the court. He is determined to finish his career on a high note, adding another chapter to his already impressive story. The Los Angeles Games represent a final opportunity to compete at the highest level and potentially secure that elusive Olympic gold medal.
Evan Fournier’s story is a testament to the sacrifices and dedication required to succeed in professional basketball. It’s also a reminder that even the most accomplished athletes prioritize family and personal fulfillment. His decision to retire after 2028 is a courageous one, driven by a desire to live a more balanced life and cherish the moments that truly matter.
Olympiacos fans will undoubtedly be eager to see Fournier continue to lead the team to success in the coming seasons. His experience and scoring ability will be invaluable as they compete for championships in both the Greek Basketball League and the EuroLeague. The club will be hoping to build around Fournier and create a lasting legacy.
The next confirmed checkpoint for Fournier is his continued participation with Olympiacos in the Greek Basketball League playoffs. Fans can follow updates on the team’s official website (https://www.olympiacosbc.gr/en) and social media channels for the latest news and scores. The French national team’s schedule can be found on the official FIBA website (https://www.fiba.basketball/).
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