AJ Griffin, 21, considers retirement from NBA after draft success

AJ Griffin, a 21-year-old forward, was selected as the No. 16 overall pick by the Hawks in the 2022 NBA Draft. He had a promising rookie season, averaging 8.9 points per game with impressive shooting percentages. However, his performance declined during his sophomore year, where he played only 20 games due to injuries and personal issues, averaging just 2.4 points. After two seasons in Atlanta, he was traded to the Rockets in a three-team deal with the Heat during the offseason. Reports indicate that Griffin is now seriously contemplating retirement from basketball. The Athletic's Shams Charania noted that both sides are preparing for his potential departure from the game, suggesting that retirement is a strong possibility. This decision comes after a challenging second season, where Griffin faced significant off-the-court issues, which he briefly addressed but did not elaborate on. Despite the struggles, Griffin expressed gratitude for the support he received from his team during his time away from the game. He indicated a desire to keep his personal matters private while acknowledging the importance of the support system around him. The Rockets had anticipated that Griffin would be a valuable addition to their roster for the upcoming season, having traded a mid-second-round pick to acquire him. As Griffin weighs his options, the basketball community is left to speculate on the implications of his potential retirement, especially given his early promise in the league. His decision could impact the Rockets' plans and the overall dynamics of the NBA, particularly for young players navigating personal challenges alongside their professional careers.