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, recently confirmed this significant shift in his life, redirecting his focus towards a spiritual calling.
Griffin’s departure from the court comes shortly after his release from the Houston Rockets on September 20, following a challenging stint at the Las Vegas Summer League in July. The 21-year-old received a $250,000 contract buyout from the Rockets, marking the end of his professional basketball journey for now.
A Promising Start
Griffin entered the NBA after a strong season at Duke, where he showcased his talent and potential. In his rookie season with the Hawks, Griffin averaged nine points per game, demonstrating an impressive 39% shooting efficiency from beyond the arc. He logged an average of 20 minutes per game and earned a spot in the starting lineup 12 times. Twice, he scored a career-best 24 points in a game, underscoring his capability as a notable scorer and a reliable shooter.
Trade to the Rockets
Despite a promising start, Griffin’s journey took a turn when he was traded to the Rockets in exchange for the 43rd overall pick, Nikola Durisic. Griffin played in 20 games last season before this trade, which eventually led to a brief and turbulent period with the Rockets. His struggles during the Las Vegas Summer League culminated in his release from the team.
A New Path
In what many might see as an unexpected move, Griffin has decided to pursue a spiritual path. "I gave up basketball to follow Jesus," Griffin shared. His decision reflects a deep commitment to his faith, which he feels is the right direction for him. "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 expressed with genuine enthusiasm.
Legacy and Inspiration
Griffin's decision is further accentuated by his family's strong basketball legacy. He is the son of Adrian Griffin, a former NBA player, and head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks. The senior Griffin’s career and coaching experiences have undoubtedly influenced A.J. Griffin’s own journey on the court. However, A.J. has chosen a different path, inspired by his faith and a desire to serve a higher purpose.
As Griffin transitions from the hardwood to his new calling, his departure marks a poignant moment in his career and for those who have followed his development. Often, athletes' decisions are driven by contract negotiations, injuries, or team dynamics. In Griffin's case, his choice is profoundly personal and rooted in his spiritual beliefs.
Looking Forward
While it remains to be seen how Griffin's new path will unfold, his courage to step away at the peak of his potential offers a unique narrative in the realm of professional sports. His journey serves as an inspiring reminder that success and fulfillment can manifest in many forms, beyond the accolades and competition of professional sports.
Griffin's enthusiastic embrace of his new direction promises a future filled with purpose and dedication, albeit off the court. For fans and peers alike, his story may serve as an uplifting testament to the power of following one's true calling, regardless of the world's expectations.