A.J. Griffin Retires from NBA to Pursue Spiritual Calling
Former Atlanta Hawks first-round pick A.J. Griffin has decided to step away from professional basketball. Drafted 16th overall by the Hawks in 2022, Griffin's departure from the sport marks a significant shift in his life and career. The announcement comes on the heels of his recent release from the Houston Rockets on September 20, following a somewhat rocky season and an underwhelming performance at the Las Vegas Summer League.
Griffin received a $250,000 contract buyout from the Rockets, closing a chapter that began with significant promise. At just 21 years old, Griffin's decision to leave the NBA is both surprising and inspiring. Griffin cited a higher calling as his reason for stepping away, saying, "I gave up basketball to follow Jesus."
In an emotional statement, he elaborated, "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 professional basketball journey was relatively short but packed with promise and potential. After playing one season at Duke, he entered the NBA with high expectations. During his rookie year with the Hawks, Griffin averaged nine points per game, demonstrating a noteworthy shooting efficiency of 39% from beyond the arc. He churned out an average of 20 minutes per game, notching career-best performances with 24 points twice and earning a spot in the starting lineup 12 times.
However, Griffin's inaugural season also brought challenges. He played 20 games for the Hawks before being traded to the Rockets in exchange for the 43rd overall pick, Nikola Durisic. The transition to the Rockets did not yield the hoped-for stability or improvement. Griffin's struggles at the Las Vegas Summer League further complicated matters, ultimately leading to his release from the team.
Despite the abrupt end to his NBA career, Griffin's pivot to a spiritual journey highlights a different kind of resolve and dedication. The son of Adrian Griffin, a former NBA player and head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks, A.J. was groomed for a life on the court. Yet, his decision to pursue full-time ministry over professional sports speaks volumes about his commitment to his faith.
Griffin’s departure from basketball to follow a spiritual calling might indeed seem like a loss in the traditional sense. However, the young athlete views it as a new beginning filled with purpose and promise. As Griffin embarks on this new path, he carries with him the lessons, discipline, and teamwork that basketball instilled in him—attributes that will undoubtedly serve him well in his ministry work.
While the NBA community loses a promising player, Griffin's story serves as a reminder of the diverse paths success can take. His journey from the hardwood court to a life of spiritual service underscores a profound personal conviction and provides a unique narrative in the world of sports.