A.J. Griffin Steps Away from Basketball to Pursue Spiritual Calling
In a surprising turn of events, former Atlanta Hawks first-round pick A.J. Griffin has announced that he is stepping away from professional basketball to pursue a spiritual calling. Selected 16th overall by the Hawks in the 2022 NBA Draft, Griffin's decision marks a significant shift in both his career and personal journey.
Griffin's announcement comes after his recent departure from the Houston Rockets. The 21-year-old was released from the team on September 20, following a challenging stint at the Las Vegas Summer League in July. The Rockets granted Griffin a $250,000 contract buyout, ending his tenure with the team. This sequence of events paved the way for Griffin to reflect on his future and make a profound life decision.
Early Career and Performance Highlights
Griffin's basketball career has been marked by promising moments. After playing one season at Duke, where his performance impressed scouts and fans alike, he entered the NBA with high expectations. In his rookie season with the Hawks, Griffin averaged nine points per game with a shooting efficiency of 39% from beyond the arc, showcasing his potential as a formidable perimeter shooter. He logged an average of 20 minutes per game and earned a spot in the starting lineup 12 times while scoring a career-best 24 points twice.
Despite these highlights, Griffin's time with the Hawks was short-lived. After playing 20 games last season, he was traded to the Rockets in exchange for the 43rd overall pick, Nikola Durisic. His performance at the Summer League, however, did not meet expectations, leading to his release from the Rockets.
A New Path: Following a Spiritual Calling
Griffin's decision to step away from the sport he has dedicated much of his young life to is grounded in his faith. In an emotional announcement, Griffin shared, "I gave up basketball to follow Jesus." He conveyed his excitement about this new chapter: "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 decision reflects a deep commitment to his spiritual beliefs, a commitment he feels necessitates leaving the game he loves. It also underscores the challenges and pressures faced by young athletes, who often have to navigate personal growth and public expectations simultaneously.
A Legacy of Basketball in the Griffin Family
A.J. Griffin is the son of Adrian Griffin, a former NBA player and head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks. The elder Griffin has had a substantial influence on his son's career, offering both guidance and a high standard to aspire to. Adrian Griffin's own journey through the NBA provides a backdrop to A.J.'s decision, highlighting the diverse paths athletes can take within the sports world.
As A.J. Griffin embarks on this new journey, the basketball community will undoubtedly reflect on his contributions and potential. His story serves as a reminder of the multifaceted identities that athletes possess, beyond their performances on the court.
Conclusion
While A.J. Griffin's departure from professional basketball is unexpected, it is a testament to his personal conviction and faith. His transition from the hardwood to a life dedicated to spiritual service marks a new chapter, one that he embraces with enthusiasm and dedication. As he moves forward, Griffin's journey will be watched with interest and support from fans and peers alike, exemplifying the powerful intersection of sports and personal beliefs.