Lakers to retire Gasol's number 16 jersey

The Los Angeles Lakers will honour Spanish legend Pau Gasol when they retire his number 16 jersey next year.

A ceremony will take place on March 7, 2023 when the Lakers host the Memphis Grizzlies.

Gasol played for the Lakers between 2008 and 2014, having arrived from Memphis, appearing in three NBA Finals and winning two championships alongside Kobe Bryant.

Three of his six All-Star appearances came during his time in Los Angeles, before he left for the Chicago Bulls in 2014.

After time with the San Antonio Spurs and Milwaukee Bucks, Gasol returned to Europe for a second spell with Barcelona, where his career had begun, before retiring in October last year at the age of 41.

Following the announcement, Gasol took to Twitter to thank his former franchise, writing: "Beyond thankful and honoured!!!"

Gasol had an average of 17.7 points per game during his time with the Lakers, as well 9.9 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 1.4 blocks in 429 appearances.

He will join a number of legends, including Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Shaquille O'Neal, Bryant and Magic Johnson, in having his jersey retired by the Lakers.

Beyond thankful and honored!!! #LakersFamily https://t.co/ZhLJgQSqIJ

— Pau Gasol (@paugasol) August 17, 2022