For the record, here's what the Bee had to say about it:
http://www.sacbee.com/content/sports/story/13573127p-14413439c.html
Report: Divac to retire, work for Lakers
Associated Press and Bee Sports Staff
Published 2:13 pm PDT Friday, September 16, 2005
BELGRADE, Serbia-Montenegro -- Former Kings star center Vlade Divac plans to retire as a player from the NBA, but will become an assistant coach and scout for the Los Angeles Lakers, a Serbian newspaper reported Friday.
“It is enough,” Divac told the Blic daily. “No, I won’t play the next season. I’ll work for the Lakers as an assistant coach and an international scout.”
The 37-year-old Divac, who returned to the Lakers last season, underwent back surgery in January and played in only 15 games, averaging 2.3 points and 2.1 rebounds. He averaged 11.9 points and 8.3 rebounds in 15 previous NBA seasons - six with the Lakers, two with Charlotte and seven with the Kings.
“The injury has only helped my decision to retire,” Divac said. “I always gave 100 percent to the sport, and after so many years of playing, I can no longer do that. I’m ending my professional career as a player, but I will remain in basketball.”
The Lakers and Divac had previously agreed to postpone a decision on his contract status.
Los Angeles had the choice of picking up a one-year, $5.4 million option or paying a $2 million buyout.
“I can’t confirm that Vlade has retired. Right now, it’s premature and we have not been notified of that,” Lakers spokesman John Black said.
Divac was in Sacramento on Monday, collecting clothing and needed items for children affected by Hurricane Katrina. He personally delivered the goods to shelters in Houston.
------------------------------------------------------------
One has to believe that Divac and the Lakers organization would make a public announcement on something like this BEFORE Vlade gave the particulars to that particular website.
Bottom line for me? If it's true, that's his choice. It will not change in any way, shape or form the admiration I have for him AND the gratitude I will always hold in my heart for what he did for my beloved Kings.