Kevin Spain

USA TODAY Sports

Stephon Marbury, who became a star in the Chinese Basketball Association, had his contract with the Beijing Ducks terminated over the weekend because the two sides were in disagreement over his role this season.

Marbury, who has been with the Ducks since 2011, averaged 21.4 points and 5.5 assists and was hoping to play one more season before retiring. But the team wanted Marbury, 40, to be an assistant coach.

Marbury sent a letter to CBA fans on Weibo, the Chinese version of Twitter: "Though I am 40 years already, I can still play at a very high level. I was still able to lead the team to compete, even with an injured leg. I still have a lot in the tank that makes me really want to play for another year."

In the letter, Marbury said he offered to reduce his salary to be a player/coach in the coming season, which "didn't lead to an agreement." Marbury also indicated that he was leaving the door open to play next season with another team.

Marbury is no stranger to changing teams. He played for the Minnesota Timberwolves, New Jersey Nets, Phoenix Suns, New York Knicks and Boston Celtics in his NBA career. He has also played for the Shanxi Zhongyu Brave Dragons and Foshan Dralions in China.

"As a 20-year veteran, I understand this is a professional game, that's why I fully respect the club's situation and decision," he wrote in the letter. "This afternoon we received the agreement letter from the team to terminate the contract we have for the coming season. I appreciate them allowing me to keep competing and winning in this great league, the CBA."

The Ducks dedicated a statue to Marbury after he led them to a championship in 2012. He won three championships with the team.

In 2015, Marbury received a permanent residence card to stay in China.