This was not the news fans were expecting when former Houston Rockets forward AJ Griffin made headlines earlier this month with news that he was considering stepping away from basketball. Subsequently, he was released by the Rockets, and then he recently posted a video on his YouTube channel where he explained his decision to leave the NBA.
In the now-viral video, AJ Griffin revealed that his decision to step away from the sport was driven by his Christian beliefs. Fans following the case would have noticed how the former Duke star had previously shared religious content on TikTok.
I gave up basketball to follow Jesus. I know that in a lot of people’s eyes, that seems like a loss. But I just wanted to let you guys know that I’m super excited because I truly get to serve God.
AJ Griffin said on his YouTube channel
He was rated highly to be drafted out of the Duke Blue Devils by the Atlanta Hawks as the 16th overall in the 2022 NBA Draft. However, his rookie season was rated below par as he averaged 8.9 points and 2.1 rebounds over 72 games. Adding to his woes, his performance dipped in his second season due to injuries.
There was a high chance that he might get his passion back when he participated in the just concluded NBA Summer League. He, however, averaged 11.6 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 1.2 steals in five games.
Houston Rockets to keep slot open after AJ Griffin release
Following the sad and early retirement of AJ Griffen, the Houston Rockets are now in a dilemma over who to replace him with. They have the option to either search the free agency market or promote someone from their G League team.
Rockets are waiving AJ Griffin via contract buyout, as he is expected to step away from basketball at 21 years old after two NBA seasons, sources said. https://t.co/bipvmzsGIU
While the market isn’t attractive enough notable veterans like Markelle Fultz, Robert Covington, and Reggie Bullock remain available. Fultz who was a former number one overall pick looks like an attractive choice. But it all rests on what the Rockets’ charismatic coach Ime Udoka wants.
Last season the Rockets missed out on the postseason, despite going on an undefeated run, which triggered veteran Draymond Green at some point. While the basketball world wishes him the best, he wasn’t guaranteed to be a starter for the team.
Ubong Richard is an NBA writer at FirstSportz. He has been an NBA writer since November 2023. His love for basketball and especially LeBron James makes his work inspiring and fun for readers worldwide. Ubong believes in adding value to any system, as this is his greatest skillset. He is currently a fourth year medical student studying to become a dental surgeon at the University of Calabar, Nigeria. If he’s not following NBA games, you can catch him watching football especially Chelsea games.
Ubong Archibong
(1100 Articles Published)