Former Atlanta Hawks first-round pick A.J. Griffin has announced his surprising decision to step away from professional basketball to pursue a spiritual calling. The 21-year-old player was drafted 16th overall by the Hawks in 2022, following a standout season at Duke University.
Griffin entered the NBA with high expectations, showing flashes of brilliance throughout his rookie season. He averaged nine points per game, with a commendable 39% shooting efficiency from beyond the arc, while logging an average of 20 minutes per game. His potential was evident, highlighted by two impressive performances where he scored a career-best 24 points. Despite these strong showings, Griffin’s transition to the NBA was not without its challenges.
After playing 20 games last season, Griffin was traded to the Houston Rockets in exchange for the 43rd overall pick, Nikola Durisic. However, his time with the Rockets was short-lived. Following a disappointing performance at the Las Vegas Summer League in July, Griffin was released from the team on September 20, accompanied by a $250,000 contract buyout.
Just days after his release, Griffin confirmed his decision to leave professional basketball, a significant shift in his life. "I gave up basketball to follow Jesus," Griffin declared. "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 sport has sparked varied reactions from fans and analysts alike. Many are reflecting on his brief yet promising career in the NBA and the potential he demonstrated. His decision underscores the personal and professional crossroads athletes often face, balancing the pursuit of their sports careers with other life aspirations.
Griffin's journey in sports was also influenced by his family. He is the son of Adrian Griffin, a former NBA player and the head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks. The elder Griffin's career undoubtedly served as both an inspiration and a guiding beacon for A.J. as he navigated the early stages of his own basketball journey.
At only 21 years old, A.J. Griffin made an indelible mark during his short stint in the NBA, characterized by moments of brilliance and potential that foreshadowed a successful career. His decision to leave the game, however, reveals a different kind of dedication—a commitment to serving a higher purpose.
As Griffin steps away from the court, his choice highlights the multifaceted nature of athletes' lives beyond their sports careers. While fans and the basketball community may feel a sense of loss, Griffin’s enthusiasm for his new path shines through, rendering his decision both personal and profound. His future, now rooted in spirituality, remains an open field of possibilities.
In the landscape of professional sports, where success is often measured by statistics and accolades, Griffin's story serves as a poignant reminder of the diverse and deeply personal journeys athletes experience. His choice to follow a spiritual calling over the bright lights of the NBA will undoubtedly inspire reflection and discussion among those he left behind on the court.