As tough a read as it is, Ivica Zubac shared a heartfelt goodbye to the LA Clippers’ organization, fans, and everyone he met along his journey via Instagram. These were his first words after the shocking trade, and it is safe to say there is a high level of emotion in the air.
"This is one of toughest moments in my life. Exactly 7 years ago this team gave me a chance and I never imagined it would work out this way. They allowed me to grow as a player and a man. Just wanna say thank you. Especially to the fans. From the moment I put on this jersey, you guys showed me love and support, on good nights and bad nights, never turned your back on me. That meant everything and it was the reason I had such pride representing this jersey...I leave with nothing but love, gratitude and respect for this organization and all you guys. From top to bottom. I’ll never forget these 7 years and love I got here..."Ivica Zubac
The Clippers’ front office loved Zubac and had pricey desires for him; they essentially did not think he would be traded. But when a rare opportunity slips through the door, like two youngsters and several draft picks, the team’s best interest is the priority, as the NBA is a business at the end of the day.
However, Zubac will be a Clipper for life, no matter which jersey he wears. The fans and organization will never forget all he did, and, of course, if there is a path for him to return to the Intuit Dome in the future, the front office will do its best to pursue it.
Ivica Zubac ended his tenure in LA as one of the greatest Clippers in franchise history
In seven years, Ivica Zubac climbed to the top of the LA Clippers’ all-time ranks in various categories. He finished fifth in games played, second in rebounds, sixth in blocks, and fifth in double-doubles.
There were also countless instances where Zubac played through sickness and injury. He had the mentality of trying his best to show up under any circumstance, which the fanbase valued to an extreme extent.
While he might be regarded as a legend in LA statistically, the deep heartbreak in the words Zubac conveyed in his goodbye aligns with his growth, personality, and his embodiment of what it means to be a Clipper.
Any time a teammate took a hard fall, he immediately provided a helping hand; If someone scored, no matter the fashion, he was always clapping and celebrating; If he had a big night, credit would always go to his teammates and coaching staff.
There will forever be a high level of respect for the Croatian star, and for generations, through any debates of the top Clippers of all-time, Zubac’s name will be in
That said, Zubac was the ultimate epitome of a true Clipper. He will be deeply missed in the red, white, and blue colors he proudly represented through 513 games, and one day, he deserves to have his number retired by the organization.