A.J. Griffin Steps Away from NBA to Pursue Spiritual Calling
In a surprising turn of events, former Atlanta Hawks first-round pick A.J. Griffin has decided to step away from professional basketball. Griffin, who was drafted 16th overall by the Hawks in 2022, recently confirmed this significant shift in his life.
Griffin's decision to retire from the court comes shortly after his release from the Houston Rockets on September 20. The Rockets had acquired Griffin in exchange for the 43rd overall pick, Nikola Durisic, after he played 20 games during the previous season. Despite showing promise, Griffin struggled during the Las Vegas Summer League in July and ultimately received a $250,000 contract buyout from the Rockets.
A Journey Cut Short
At just 21 years old, Griffin's brief yet eventful professional career saw him averaging nine points per game in his rookie season. Notably, he maintained an impressive 39% shooting efficiency from beyond the arc and logged an average of 20 minutes per game. Griffin even managed to score a career-best 24 points twice and earned a spot in the starting lineup 12 times during his inaugural season.
Before entering the NBA, Griffin played one season at Duke, showcasing his potential and setting the stage for his professional endeavors. However, his tenure with the Hawks and subsequently the Rockets was marked by ups and downs, ultimately leading to his early departure from the league.
A Bold New Path
Griffin's decision to leave the NBA stems from a profound personal choice. "I gave up basketball to follow Jesus," Griffin candidly 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."
He elaborated on his decision, expressing a sense of fulfillment and purpose in his new path. "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."
A Legacy of Basketball
Griffin's departure from the professional basketball scene marks a significant shift, especially considering his lineage. He is the son of Adrian Griffin, a former NBA player and head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks. Adrian Griffin's influence on his son's career was evident, and A.J.'s decision to leave the sport resonates deeply within the basketball community.
Despite this unexpected move, A.J. Griffin's choice to pursue a spiritual calling reflects a broader narrative of athletes making life-altering decisions based on personal beliefs and values. While his departure from the NBA is sudden, it underscores the diverse paths that professional athletes can take, both within and beyond the world of sports.
As Griffin embarks on this new chapter, his journey serves as a poignant reminder of the power of personal conviction and the willingness to embrace change, regardless of public perception or external expectations.