A.J. Griffin Steps Away from Professional Basketball to Pursue Spiritual Calling
Former Atlanta Hawks first-round pick A.J. Griffin, a promising talent drafted 16th overall in 2022, has announced his decision to step away from professional basketball to follow a spiritual calling. The 21-year-old, who recently parted ways with the Houston Rockets, shared his life-altering decision in a heartfelt message.
"I gave up basketball to follow Jesus," Griffin stated. "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 career in the NBA was brief but impactful. After an impressive season at Duke, where he played one year before declaring for the draft, Griffin entered the league with a solid reputation. In his rookie season, he averaged nine points per game, showcasing his shooting proficiency with a 39% efficiency from beyond the arc. Playing an average of 20 minutes per game, he managed to earn a spot in the starting lineup 12 times and scored a career-best 24 points twice.
Despite his promising start, Griffin's professional journey encountered turbulence. He played 20 games last season for the Hawks before being traded to the Houston Rockets in exchange for the 43rd overall pick, Nikola Durisic. Griffin's tenure with the Rockets was short-lived, as he struggled significantly at the Las Vegas Summer League in July, leading to his release on September 20. Following his release, Griffin received a $250,000 contract buyout.
The sudden end to his professional basketball career comes as a surprise to many, especially considering his lineage. Griffin is the son of Adrian Griffin, a former NBA player who later became the head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks. The younger Griffin was seemingly poised to follow in his father's footsteps and carve out his own legacy in the NBA. However, his recent decision marks a significant shift in his life's trajectory.
Griffin's departure from the court to pursue spiritual endeavors underscores a rare but profound transition within the realm of professional sports. Athletes often face immense pressure to excel and maintain their status in their respective sports, yet Griffin's choice highlights a different kind of dedication and commitment. By opting to serve in full-time ministry, he is following what he describes as a calling far greater than basketball.
His announcement has elicited varied reactions from fans and peers alike. While some may view this move as a loss to the sport, others have expressed admiration for his courage to prioritize his faith and personal fulfillment over his burgeoning career. Griffin's journey may serve as an inspiration to those who grapple with balancing professional aspirations with personal convictions.
As Griffin embarks on this new chapter, the sports community will undoubtedly keep a close watch on his endeavors beyond the basketball court. His decision, rooted in a profound spiritual awakening, serves as a poignant reminder of the diverse paths athletes can take once they step off the hardwood. The basketball world may feel his absence, but his impact and message are likely to resonate far beyond the confines of the game.