The low-post battle that signaled the end of David West's NBA career

In the NBA, much is made of the "Welcome to the League" momentsthose flashes when a rookie truly grasps the magnitude of playing at the highest level. Yet, there is a quieter, more sobering milestone for veterans: the instant they understand its time to step away from the game. For David West, that realization struck during a late-career matchup with the Los Angeles Lakers.

The defining moment unfolded in the low post against Josh Hart, now with the New York Knicks. At 37, West, then a seasoned veteran with the Golden State Warriors, faced a stark truth about his own limits. The arena felt colder than usual, a struggle compounded by the challenge of warming up his bodya battle that had grown more difficult with age.

"When youre over 6-foot-6 and battling the cold, getting your body ready is a fight," West reflected in 2020. "I spent the entire day trying to loosen upshootaround, massagesnothing worked."

During the game, West squared off with Hart in the low post. Initially, it seemed like a routine contest, but it quickly became apparent that his strength and mobility were no longer what they had been. No matter how he adjusted or tried to assert himself, Hart refused to budge.

Adding to the frustration was Wests own pride. He had hoped to assert dominance after previous plays, but his efforts proved futile. "If you can't move this cat, you gotta go," West admitted. That struggle crystallized the truth he had been sensing all season: it was time to retire.

Even before the Lakers game, Wests body had been signaling limits. A challenging matchup in Philadelphia, under the guidance of coach Steve Kerr, highlighted the physical toll. Guarding tough opponents revealed the risks of pushing too hard, especially for his back. Later encounters, such as facing Giannis Antetokounmpo, reinforced that competing at full intensity was no longer safe.

These experiences made it clear: no amount of skill or experience could counteract the wear his body had endured. Accepting this reality, the New Jersey native decided to retire in late August 2018, concluding a remarkable 15-season career in the NBA.

Author: Gavin Porter