A.J. Griffin Steps Away from NBA to Pursue Spiritual Calling
In a surprising turn of events, former Atlanta Hawks first-round pick A.J. Griffin has decided to step away from professional basketball. Griffin, who was drafted 16th overall by the Hawks in 2022, recently confirmed this significant shift in his life. His announcement comes on the heels of his release from the Houston Rockets on September 20, after he struggled during the Las Vegas Summer League in July.
"I gave up basketball to follow Jesus," Griffin stated, crystallizing his profound decision. The 21-year-old's journey has been a whirlwind, marked by moments of athletic promise and now, a bold shift towards a spiritual path. Griffin explained his decision further, saying, "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."
A Bright Start in the NBA
Griffin made his NBA debut after one season at Duke, where he displayed considerable promise. His rookie season with the Hawks saw him average nine points per game, demonstrating impressive shooting efficiency with a 39% success rate from beyond the arc. He logged an average of 20 minutes per game, showcasing versatility and resilience. Griffin's performance peaked with career-best nights, where he scored 24 points twice, and he earned a spot in the starting lineup 12 times during his rookie season.
A Sudden Transition
Despite his early successes, Griffin's NBA journey took an unexpected turn last season when he was traded to the Rockets in exchange for the 43rd overall pick, Nikola Durisic. Griffin played 20 games with the Hawks before the trade, but his stint with the Rockets was short-lived. His struggles at the Las Vegas Summer League were a critical factor leading to his release. The Texas franchise subsequently bought out his $250,000 contract, leading to Griffin reevaluating his career path.
Griffin's decision to leave the NBA is steeped in his desire to pursue a higher calling. He emphasized the importance of dedicating himself fully to his faith and spiritual growth. "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," Griffin elaborated. This new chapter marks a significant pivot from a burgeoning sports career to a devout path of spiritual service.
Family Ties and Future Opportunities
Interestingly, Griffin's decision to step away from the court comes within the context of a family deeply rooted in basketball. He is the son of Adrian Griffin, a former NBA player and the current head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks. Adrian Griffin's career has undoubtedly influenced A.J., whether in moments of triumph or challenge. However, A.J. Griffin's journey will now veer into uncharted territory, one where his faith takes precedence over professional sports.
While Griffin's departure from the NBA may be seen as a loss within the sporting world, it represents a gain in his personal and spiritual journey. His commitment to follow a spiritual calling and dedicate himself to serving God reflects a deep sense of purpose transcending athletic achievements. Whether or not he returns to the court remains uncertain, but Griffin's legacy will undoubtedly be shaped by his courageous decision to prioritize his spiritual path.
As the young athlete leaves behind the familiar hardwood of professional basketball, his future endeavors in ministry will be closely watched by both his supporters and the broader sports community. The impact of his decision may inspire others facing similar crossroads, underscoring the value of following one's convictions, regardless of external expectations.
In the end, A.J. Griffin's story is a testament to the multifaceted nature of personal fulfillment, illustrating that sometimes the most significant triumphs occur not in the arena but in the heart's pursuit of what truly matters.