Former Atlanta Hawks first-round pick A.J. Griffin has set the sports world abuzz with his unexpected decision to step away from professional basketball.
Drafted 16th overall in 2022, Griffin's career seemed destined for the heights many NBA rookies only dream of. With an average of nine points per game, a 39% shooting efficiency from beyond the arc, and 20 minutes per game in his rookie season, Griffin demonstrated potential that suggested a promising future in the league. He logged a career-best 24 points twice and earned a spot in the starting lineup 12 times that season.
However, in a surprising turn of events, Griffin recently confirmed his departure from the court, a decision that followed his release from the Houston Rockets on September 20. Griffin's journey with the Rockets was brief, having played 20 games last season before being traded in exchange for the 43rd overall pick, Nikola Durisic. His subsequent struggles at the Las Vegas Summer League seemed to mark a turning point, culminating in his release from the team.
Despite receiving a $250,000 contract buyout, Griffin, at just 21 years old, has chosen to pursue a different path. The young athlete, whose final basketball endeavor came after only one season at Duke, has voiced a profound reason for his decision. "I gave up basketball to follow Jesus," Griffin declared.
The announcement resonated deeply, as Griffin elaborated on his motivations. "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 to embrace a spiritual calling marks a significant shift in his life, one that reflects a broader and perhaps more fulfilling vision than the one he chased on the hardwood. Raised in a basketball family, A.J.'s father, Adrian Griffin, himself a former NBA player and head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks, surely influenced his early love for the game. Yet, it's clear that A.J. Griffin's compass now points towards new horizons.
The sports community's reaction to Griffin's announcement has been mixed. His departure leaves fans, teammates, and coaches reflecting on the fleeting nature of professional sports and the personal sacrifices behind the scenes. For some, Griffin's decision is a poignant reminder of the diverse paths athletes can take. To others, it's a sobering account of how personal and spiritual growth can redefine one's version of success.
As Griffin steps away from professional basketball, he leaves behind a narrative of promise and potential unfulfilled, at least on the court. His journey serves as a testament to the power of personal conviction and the courage it takes to follow one's true calling, even when it means turning away from the lights of the NBA.
In the end, A.J. Griffin's legacy may not be written in points or victories but in the steps he takes on his new journey. And for him, it seems, the journey is just beginning.