Rockets’ AJ Griffin Contemplates Leaving Basketball After Recent Struggles
In a surprising development, AJ Griffin of the Houston Rockets is reportedly "seriously considering" stepping away from basketball. Sources close to the situation, including Shams Charania and Kelly Iko of The Athletic, have revealed that both Griffin and the Rockets are bracing for the possibility of his departure from the sport. This news comes after a challenging period for Griffin, who was initially drafted 16th overall by the Atlanta Hawks in 2022.
Griffin's rookie season showed promise. He averaged 8.9 points per game, shooting 46.5% from the field, 39% from three-point range, and 89.4% from the free-throw line over 72 games. However, his trajectory took a downturn in his second season. Injuries, including leg and ankle issues, coupled with personal reasons, limited his appearances and effectiveness on the court. During the 2023-24 season, Griffin’s playing time dwindled to an average of just 8.6 minutes per game across 20 appearances. His performance suffered as well, with a stark drop in his scoring average to 2.4 points per game and shooting percentages falling significantly.
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Griffin was traded to the Rockets in June as part of a three-team deal that sent him from Atlanta, where he had been a promising but inconsistent player, to Houston. Despite his excitement about joining the Rockets, it seems his stint with the team might be short-lived. Griffin’s contract includes a guaranteed salary of $3.89 million for the 2024-25 season, but the Rockets have the option to decide on a $5.97 million team option for the 2025-26 season by the end of October. Given the current circumstances, it seems unlikely they will pick up that option.
AJ Griffin is the son of Adrian Griffin, a former NBA player and coach, who was with the Milwaukee Bucks last season. This connection added to the expectations surrounding Griffin’s career. Yet, the reality has been different. After his time away from the Hawks due to personal reasons, Griffin expressed gratitude for the support he received but was vague about the details of his absence. This lack of clarity, coupled with his recent struggles, has raised questions about his future in the sport.
The potential departure of Griffin is particularly notable given the short duration of his NBA career so far. A player deciding to leave professional basketball after only two seasons is rare and reflects a deeper, more personal decision. For now, all eyes are on Griffin as he navigates this critical juncture in his life and career. If he does step away from the game, it will mark a significant moment in his young career, and many will be watching to see what path he chooses next.
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