Former Atlanta Hawks first-round choose A.J. Griffin has introduced his retirement from basketball at age 21, citing his want to pursue full-time ministry. Griffin, who was waived by the Houston Rockets on Sept. 20 after being traded from Atlanta, confirmed in a YouTube video that his resolution to step away from the sport was motivated by his religion.
“I gave up basketball to observe Jesus,” Griffin stated within the video. “I do know that in lots of people’s eyes, that looks as if a loss… however I really get to serve God with my full ‘Sure.’”
The 6-foot-6 ahead, drafted No. 16 general by the Hawks in 2022 after one season at Duke, averaged 9 factors per sport as a rookie. Recognized for his 3-point capturing, Griffin had two 24-point performances and made 12 begins in his first NBA season.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: AJ Griffin, Houston Rockets Updates
Nonetheless, Griffin’s second season was marred by accidents and restricted enjoying time. He appeared in solely 20 video games earlier than being traded to Houston this summer time in change for Nikola Durisic, the No. 43 choose within the 2024 draft.
Griffin struggled throughout the Rockets’ Summer season League marketing campaign in Las Vegas, and after being waived, he agreed to a $250,000 buyout, in response to Jonathan Feigen of the Houston Chronicle.
Griffin’s resolution to retire shocked many, particularly given his younger age and potential. However the son of Milwaukee Bucks head coach Adrian Griffin stated he felt a calling to pursue ministry full time.
“I really feel like letting go of basketball is permitting me to enter full-time ministry and really serve the Lord with all my coronary heart — with all my time, too,” Griffin stated.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: AJ Griffin, Houston Rockets Updates
Griffin’s function in Houston would doubtless have been restricted, because the Rockets boast a deep roster of forwards, together with Jabari Smith Jr., Dillon Brooks, and Cam Whitmore. His buyout opens a roster spot for Houston forward of the 2024-25 NBA season.
Griffin finishes his NBA profession averaging 7.5 factors and 1.9 rebounds over 92 video games throughout two seasons with Atlanta. He lately frolicked away from the Hawks throughout the 2023 season for private causes, additional including to the uncertainty round his future within the league.
Although his time within the NBA was transient, Griffin’s resolution to step away to serve a better calling is a uncommon transfer in skilled sports activities, and he leaves with the respect of teammates and followers alike.
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