After 23 years of dedicated service, the greatest mascot in professional sports has decided to retire.

Nuggets SuperMascot Rocky released a statement today saying his recent victory at Cartoon Network’s Hall of Game Awards, crowning him the world’s Most Awesome Mascot, and his 2008 induction into the Mascot Hall of Fame have left him with little left to accomplish.

“I’ve always wanted to go out on top,” the statement said. “The timing just feels right.”

Since his debut on Dec. 15, 1990, Rocky has always been among the most popular members of the Nuggets organization. His signature backwards half-court shot has become a fourth-quarter staple at every Nuggets home game.

During his time in Denver, Rocky has performed at over 1,000 Nuggets games, and has a personal record of making his half-court shot at nine consecutive games.

He also is renowned for his involvement in Denver community outreach in conjunction with Kroenke Sports Charities and the Denver Nuggets community ambassadors.

“He’s the hardest working mascot in sports,” said former Nuggets forward and current community ambassador Mark Randall. “He’s done everything. It’s just time for him to get some rest.

“Hopefully his replacement has the same work ethic. Those are some tough lightning bolt shoes to fill.”

For the next five home games, fans will have a chance to watch Rocky perform and say good-bye. A special retirement ceremony is planned for Fan Appreciation Night on April 17, when the Nuggets take on the Phoenix Suns in their final regular-season home game.

Over the next week, Nuggets.com will be taking submissions from fans for ideas for next Nuggets mascot. The new mascot will be introduced prior to the 2013-14 season.

Fans can provide their suggestions for Rocky’s replacement by filling out the form at the bottom of this page. One randomly selected fan will win tickets to the first Nuggets home game of the 2013 NBA Playoffs.

(APRIL FOOLS!)