Ricky Rubio did not attend media day with the Cleveland Cavaliers in what is an excused absence, sources tell Chris Fedor of the Cleveland Plain Dealer.
Rubio announced in August he was putting his NBA career on hold indefinitely to address his mental health.
“I have decided to stop my professional activity to take care of my mental health. I want to thank all the support I have received from the [Spanish national] team to understand my decision,” Rubio said. “Today #family makes more sense than ever. Thank you. I would ask that my privacy be respected so that I can face these moments and be able to give more information when the time is right.”
Shortly after Rubio’s announcement, the Cavs released a statement.
“We were informed today by Ricky and his representation that he has decided to step away from his illustrious basketball career to focus on his mental health at this time,” the team wrote on Aug. 5. “We understand how difficult of a decision this was for him and will balance providing whatever support we can while simultaneously respecting Ricky’s request for privacy.”
Rubio has two years and $12.5 million left on a contract signed with the Cavs last summer.