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, confirmed this significant shift in his life recently. His departure from the court comes shortly after being released from the Houston Rockets on September 20, following a challenging stint in the Las Vegas Summer League. Griffin received a $250,000 contract buyout.
The 21-year-old Griffin's career began with high hopes, having played one season at Duke before entering the NBA. In his rookie season, he averaged nine points per game with a notable 39% shooting efficiency from beyond the arc. Additionally, Griffin logged an average of 20 minutes per game and scored a career-best 24 points twice, earning a spot in the starting lineup 12 times. However, after playing 20 games last season, he was traded to the Rockets in exchange for the 43rd overall pick, Nikola Durisic. His struggles during the Summer League led to his release from the team.
Despite the early promise, Griffin has shifted his focus from basketball to a higher calling. Speaking openly about his decision, Griffin stated, "I gave up basketball to follow Jesus." He elaborated on his choice by saying, "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 departure from the NBA marks a notable shift in his life, but it also highlights the diverse paths professional athletes can take once their time in sports comes to an end. His decision to pursue a spiritual calling is deeply personal, influenced by his faith and his desire to serve God fully. This new direction could offer him fulfillment beyond basketball, as he embarks on a journey that aligns with his beliefs and values.
Griffin is not the first athlete to make such a transition, but his story stands out due to his young age and the potential that many saw in him. The son of Adrian Griffin, a former NBA player and head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks, A.J. Griffin had basketball in his blood. His father's legacy and experience in the NBA are well-known, making A.J.'s decision even more intriguing to many observers.
This chapter in Griffin's life will undoubtedly inspire conversations about the pressures and expectations placed on young athletes. His choice to prioritize his faith over his professional career may serve as a reminder that success isn't solely defined by sports achievements, but also by personal growth and fulfillment.
As Griffin steps away from the spotlight of the NBA, his journey into full-time ministry will be followed with interest by those who admired his basketball talents. His courage to follow his heart and faith offers a profound message about pursuing one's true calling, regardless of external expectations.
In the ever-competitive world of professional sports, A.J. Griffin's story is a testament to the power of personal conviction and the pursuit of purpose. While his time on the court may have been brief, his impact extends beyond basketball, offering a compelling narrative about faith, courage, and the quest for deeper meaning in life.