Gasol brothers retire from international play following Spain's loss to U.S.

Marc and Pau Gasol retired from international play in the wake of Spain's 95-81 quarterfinal defeat by the USA in the men's Olympic basketball tournament.

"It’s been a hell of a ride," Los Angeles Lakers big man Marc told reporters after the loss Tuesday, according to The Toronto Star's Dave Feschuk.

"I think it's time for somebody else to enjoy the ride. I think it's time for me to get off the ride and for some young guys to step on and enjoy it."

The Gasol brothers bid adieu to La Roja following decorated careers at the heart of Spain's Golden Generation.

Pau, 41, who plies his trade in Spain with Barcelona, and Marc, 36, were part of the teams that won silver medals at the 2008 and 2012 Olympics. Pau was also in the squad that captured bronze at the 2016 Games in Rio.

"This was my last game with the national team," Pau said. "Now I’ll have to digest and think about it with my family, whether it’s worth it for me to continue to play or should I move on to different challenges and other goals in life."

Marc's and Pau's retirements appeared a foregone conclusion after the veteran duo had minimal roles under Sergio Scariolo in Tokyo. Marc played just 10 minutes against the U.S., and Pau chipped in with six minutes. Neither scored a point as Spain suffered a 14-point defeat to gold-medal favorite Team USA.

Longtime Argentina standout Luis Scola, 41, also announced his retirement from international play Tuesday following a quarterfinal blowout against Australia.