Bulls star Gasol has no plans to retire
Do not expect Pau Gasol to follow NBA icon and former team-mate Kobe Bryant into retirement anytime soon.
Retirement is not on the mind of Chicago Bulls veteran Pau Gasol, who believes he can continue playing for a "few more years".
Gasol, 35, is in the twilight of an illustrious career that has yielded two NBA championships and six All-Star appearances.
But as former team-mate Kobe Bryant prepares to bid farewell basketball at the end of the season, Gasol has no plans to call it quits.
"I feel as though I can continue to play a few more years," Gasol told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
"I'm enjoying myself and I know I can compete with anyone. There aren't many people my age that can do what I do."
And Gasol's numbers this season show he still has plenty to offer.
The Spain international is averaging 16.9 points, 10.8 rebounds, 3.6 assists and two blocks per game in 2015-16.
"You have to look in the mirror and be true to yourself and then make a decision. I haven't had to do that yet," Gasol added.
Gasol was the subject of interest from the Sacramento Kings before last week's trade deadline, though nothing materialised.
However, Gasol – whose contract expires at the end of the season – would consider any offer he receives in the future.
Asked if he would like to stay in Chicago, Gasol said: "It's tough to say at this time. The best scenario would see us win the title this year.
"If a team shows that they want me at the end of the season then I would have to consider their offer."