AJ Griffin, who was selected as the No. 16 pick in the 2022 NBA Draft out of Duke, is reportedly contemplating leaving basketball at just 21 years old. This development was disclosed by Shams Charania and Kelly Iko of The Athletic, though the specific reasons behind his decision have not been made public.
The potential departure is rumored to be for an extended period, but it remains unclear whether it would be a permanent or temporary decision.
Griffin’s rookie season with the Atlanta Hawks showed promise, with him averaging 8.9 points per game and shooting 39% from three-point range. However, he faced challenges early in his second season, missing several games due to personal reasons, which the team did not detail.
When he returned, Griffin struggled to secure a consistent role, playing only 20 games and posting averages of 2.4 points per game and 29% shooting from three, alongside defensive difficulties.
This offseason, Griffin was traded to the Houston Rockets as part of a multi-team deal that also involved the No. 43 pick, which Atlanta used to draft Nikola Djurisic. Despite the trade, the Rockets, who have a roster filled with young talent, face a challenge in integrating Griffin into their lineup.
His performance in the Summer League in Las Vegas was modest, with averages of 11.6 points and 3 rebounds per game, and a 28% shooting rate from three-point range.
Griffin’s potential departure from basketball would also mean forfeiting a guaranteed $3.9 million salary for the current season, along with a $5.9 million team option for the 2025-26 season held by the Rockets. Given these financial considerations, it highlights the gravity of his situation if he decides to step away from the sport.
Ultimately, while the reasons for Griffin’s potential exit remain undisclosed, it’s crucial for him to receive the necessary support and guidance during this period. The situation underscores the importance of mental health and personal well-being, and fans and analysts alike hope that Griffin finds what he needs, whether within or outside of professional basketball.
