Noah Rosenstein
Updated on: October 11, 2024 4:57 am GMT
In a surprising development, AJ Griffin, a promising 21-year-old basketball player, is reportedly considering stepping away from the NBA. Griffin, selected as the No. 16 pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, has garnered attention after news broke from Shams Charania and Kelly Iko of The Athletic regarding his intentions. The absence of an explanation for this decision adds to the intrigue surrounding the former Duke star’s career.
AJ Griffin’s Background and Recent Performance
Griffin was drafted by the Atlanta Hawks but was traded to the Houston Rockets during the recent offseason as part of a three-team deal. He played his rookie season with the Hawks, where he averaged 8.9 points per game, shooting 39% from three-point range. However, his second season did not go as smoothly. Following a personal absence early in the season, Griffin struggled to find his place in the rotation, appearing in just 20 games and averaging only 2.4 points per game with a shooting percentage of 29% from beyond the arc.
Despite his challenges, there was optimism surrounding Griffin’s potential in Houston’s young roster. The Rockets’ front office expressed interest in his game during the Summer League, where he averaged 11.6 points and 3 rebounds per game over five contests. Nevertheless, his shooting percentage from three-point range remained concerning at 28%.
Financial Implications of Retirement
Griffin is currently under contract for the 2024-25 season, with a guaranteed salary of $3.9 million. Should he choose to retire, he would forfeit this financial commitment. The Rockets also hold a $5.9 million team option for the 2025-26 season, which would be impacted by his decision to step away from the game. Griffin’s potential retirement could lead to significant changes in his financial and professional trajectory.
Impacted by Personal Challenges
While the exact reasons behind Griffin’s contemplation of retirement remain unclear, previous incidents in his career might provide some context. Last season, he missed a portion of games for undisclosed personal reasons, suggesting that issues beyond the court could be influencing his decision-making process.
Sports analysts and fans alike are left speculating about the factors weighing on Griffin’s mind. The transition from college athletics to professional sports can often be daunting, and the pressures of performance can exacerbate any existing personal challenges.
The Role of Family in Griffin’s Career
AJ Griffin is the son of Adrian Griffin, a former NBA player and current head coach in the league. Growing up in a basketball-centric family likely shaped his expectations and pressures. This relationship could significantly influence his decision to stay in the league or take a break, as balancing personal expectations with professional expectations can be complex.
Pursuit of Well-being
Whether or not Griffin ultimately chooses to step away from basketball, the importance of mental health and well-being in sports is a growing topic of discussion. Many athletes today are prioritizing their mental health, seeking professional help, and taking breaks when necessary. Fans and commentators alike hope that Griffin will make the best choice for his future, whether it involves returning to the court or focusing on his personal well-being.
Future Considerations
As news about Griffin’s potential retirement circulates, the landscape of his career remains uncertain. The NBA has seen athletes step back for various reasons, prioritizing their health and personal happiness over professional obligations. Should Griffin decide to take this significant step, it could prompt discussions across the league regarding player mental health and the pressures they face.
Similarly, the Rockets must consider how this potential departure would affect their lineup and future plans. As a team already populated with young talent, losing a promising player like Griffin could mean re-evaluating their strategy moving forward.
Community Reactions and Support
Reactions to Griffin’s situation have been varied. Fans have expressed shock, while some players have publicly shown support for Griffin, underscoring the importance of mental health awareness in sports. Barry Collins, a retired NBA player, echoed the sentiments of many, emphasizing that an athlete’s happiness and mental state are paramount.
In the coming weeks, as the news develops, the basketball community will undoubtedly remain focused on Griffin’s choices and well-being, hoping that he finds the right path forward, regardless of whether it includes a continued pursuit of professional basketball.
Right now, we don’t know what will happen with AJ Griffin in the NBA. His situation makes us think about the tough challenges young athletes deal with, especially when people focus more on how they play than on their health and happiness. Talking about mental health in sports is really important, and AJ’s story might help more people understand this issue better.
