The tango with sharpshooter Ray Allen has finally come to an end. The two-time NBA champion has finally ruled out playing this season after months of speculation and even personal visits from former teammate and friend LeBron James.

The NBA’s record holder for most three point shot made announced during the start of the week that he is choosing to spend more time with his family and is not ruling out a return for the next season. Jim Tanner, Allen’s agent, revealed that despite the deluge of interest from teams, the former Boston Celtics player is not retiring but is just opting to sit out this season.

“Over the past several months, I have taken a lot of time to deliberate what is best for me,” Allen said in his official statement. “I’ve ultimately decided that I will not play this NBA season. I’m going to take the remainder of this season, as well as the upcoming off-season, to reassess my situation, spend time with my family and determine if I will play in the 2015-16 season.”

A number of teams were auditioning for Allen’s services including James’ team, the Cleveland Cavaliers. NBA clubs with championship aspirations such as the Los Angeles Clippers, Atlanta Hawks, San Antonio Spurs, and the Golden State Warriors. Several of these teams were ready to let go of a player to free up a roster spot for the 39-year-old shooter. The timeliness of the decision allows these teams to move on from their plan and seek other options elsewhere as the deadline for adding players eligible for a playoff run draws near.

Allen, who holds the record for the most three-point field goals made at 2,973, has shown in the past 2 years that he can still be effective in spot roles which was personified with his historic game-tying three point shot at the tail end of Game 6 of the 2013 NBA Finals between the Miami Heat and the San Antonio Spurs. If Allen eventually chooses to formally retire next year, he closes at exactly 40% for his career percentage from beyond the arc and leaves a lasting legacy as one of the game’s best gunners.

For concerns on this story, contact the author at v.hidalgo@ibtimes.com.au.">v.hidalgo@ibtimes.com.au.

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