Former Atlanta Hawks First-Round Pick A.J. Griffin Steps Away from NBA
In a surprising turn of events, former Atlanta Hawks first-round pick A.J. Griffin has announced his decision to step away from professional basketball. Griffin, who was drafted 16th overall by the Hawks in 2022, has confirmed this significant shift in his life just shortly after his release from the Houston Rockets on September 20.
The 21-year-old, who initially made waves with his on-court prowess, has chosen to follow a new path, leaving behind a promising career in the NBA. After one season at Duke, Griffin entered the league with high expectations. In his rookie season, he averaged nine points per game, with a commendable 39% shooting efficiency from beyond the arc, while logging an average of 20 minutes per game. He also scored a career-best 24 points twice during that season, earning a spot in the starting lineup 12 times.
Griffin's trajectory took an unexpected turn when he was traded to the Rockets in exchange for the 43rd overall pick, Nikola Durisic, after appearing in 20 games last season. Despite his early promise, Griffin struggled at the Las Vegas Summer League in July, leading to his release from the Rockets. His departure from the court was cemented with a $250,000 contract buyout.
In a heartfelt announcement, Griffin expressed his reasons for leaving the sport, attributing his decision to a higher calling. "I gave up basketball to follow Jesus," Griffin shared. "And I know that in a lot of people's eyes, that seems like – it seems like a loss in the world's eyes. But, I just want to let you guys know that I'm super excited because I truly get to serve God, you know, with my full Yes, and I feel like letting go of basketball is allowing me to, you know, go into full-time ministry and truly serving the Lord with all my heart – with all my time too, as well. So, I'm just excited to see where that leads me."
Griffin's decision has undoubtedly shocked the basketball community. Known for his exceptional skills on the court, his choice to pursue a spiritual calling marks a profound transition. Griffin is the son of Adrian Griffin, a former NBA player and head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks, which adds a layer of depth to his story. Adrian's legacy in the NBA is well-known, and A.J.'s departure from the sport signals a move away from the family career, opting instead to forge his unique path.
While the story of A.J. Griffin's brief and dynamic career in the NBA may be a tale of unfulfilled potential on the court, it also is a compelling narrative of personal growth and spiritual commitment. His journey from a standout player at Duke to an aspiring young star in the NBA, and now to a full-time minister, demonstrates the multifaceted nature of athletes and their lives beyond sports.
As Griffin embarks on this new chapter, the basketball world will remember his contributions and potential, both of which he leaves behind as he seeks fulfillment in his spiritual pursuits. His decision underscores the fact that the path to personal fulfillment can take many unexpected turns, even for rising stars in professional sports.