Mo Williams to Retire from NBA After Next Season: Comments, Reaction

Veteran guard Mo Williams has ended any skepticism about his playing future, confirming that next season with the Cleveland Cavaliers will be his last.  

Speaking to ESPN.com's Chris Haynes, Williams said "this is my last year." He added to that comment with a tweet of his own:

"

Coming back #onemoreyear

— Mo Williams (@mowilliams) September 22, 2016"

Williams signed a two-year, $4.3 million deal with the Cavaliers prior to last season, returning to the franchise for his second stint. It worked out well for the 33-year-old, as the Cavs won an NBA title. 

In June, he exercised his option for the 2015-16 season. There was some uncertainty about whether the Cavaliers would bring him back, though. 

Williams will be going into his 14th season next year. In addition to his time with the Cavaliers, he's also played for the Milwaukee Bucks, Utah Jazz, Los Angeles Clippers, Portland Trail Blazers, Minnesota Timberwolves and Charlotte Hornets. 

Joe Vardon of Cleveland.com reported last month the Cavaliers decided against waiving him prior to the August 31 deadline that would have allowed them to stretch the $2.2 million salary he is owed over the next five years, thereby lowering the team's luxury tax penalties. 

Vardon also noted that the Cavs were highly skeptical that Williams was even planning on returning next season despite exercising his option, after he had missed 41 games last year due to knee and thumb injuries. 

After going through a full offseason and recovery, Williams appears ready to go out on a higher personal note than he did last year as a spare piece who was used mostly in garbage time during the NBA Finals.