Ex-Knicks First-Rounder Retires After 16 NBA Seasons
Danilo Gallinari, a former New York Knicks first-round pick, has officially retired from professional basketball. The Italian forward concludes a remarkable career spanning 20 seasons, with 16 of those spent in the NBA.
Gallinari’s Career Highlights
The retirement news broke on December 2, 2025, through NBA insider Shams Charania. Gallinari was chosen as the sixth overall pick in the 2008 NBA Draft after a notable run in Italy.
NBA Journey
- Height: 6 feet 10 inches
- NBA Seasons: 16
- Total NBA Games: 777
Gallinari’s NBA journey began with the Knicks, where he signed a two-year contract. He faced challenges early on; injury limited his debut season to just 28 games.
Breakthrough Season
His breakthrough came in the 2009-10 season. Under head coach Mike D’Antoni, Gallinari became a starter and began to show his scoring prowess. On October 31, 2009, he scored a career-high 30 points against the Philadelphia 76ers, hitting eight three-pointers.
He surpassed that moment with 31 points against the Boston Celtics on April 6, 2010.
Knicks Career Statistics
During his time with the Knicks, Gallinari played 157 games. His averages included:
- Points Per Game: 13.7
- Rebounds Per Game: 4.3
- Assists Per Game: 1.5
Gallinari proved to be a key player, ranking 20th in franchise history for three-pointers made. His ability to stretch the floor was vital to the Knicks’ offensive strategies.
Legacy and Future
Gallinari’s career, though it began in New York, took him to Denver, Los Angeles, and Atlanta. He has left an indelible mark on the league.
As fans and former teammates wish him well, Gallinari’s contributions to basketball will be remembered for years to come.
