The Houston Rockets have opted to waive A.J. Griffin following a mutual agreement on a contract buyout worth $250,000. At just 21 years old, Griffin is stepping away from basketball, at least for the foreseeable future. This decision comes as a significant turn of events for the young player, who was drafted 16th overall by the Atlanta Hawks in the 2022 NBA Draft.
Griffin’s initial NBA journey began with promise. After a single season at Duke, he entered the professional league with notable potential. In his rookie season, Griffin averaged nine points per game, boasting a commendable 39% conversion rate from beyond the arc in 20 minutes of play. His ability to perform under pressure was evident when he scored a career-best 24 points on two separate occasions. Despite starting in 12 games for the Hawks, Griffin found himself traded to the Houston Rockets, a move that included Nikola Durisic, the No. 43 overall pick, heading to Atlanta.
Griffin struggled to find his footing with the Rockets. His performance was particularly challenged during the Las Vegas Summer League last July. This period of difficulty appears to have significantly impacted his confidence and overall game, leading to the current juncture in his career.
Family Legacy and Personal Struggles
A.J. Griffin carries a notable NBA lineage. He is the son of Adrian Griffin, a former NBA player who now serves as the head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks. Despite having a role model with such expertise, Griffin's recent performances have shown that the pathway to success in professional sports is rarely straightforward.
As Griffin contemplates his next steps, the Houston Rockets have made the decision to honor his need for introspection. Jonathan Feigen of the Houston Chronicle reports that Griffin plans to "sit out the [2024-25] season while considering whether to continue his career."
The Decision to Step Back
There is an element of uncertainty about whether Griffin’s hiatus from basketball will be temporary or a permanent step away from the sport. His recent decision to sit out the upcoming season comes as he grapples with this challenging period in his young career. The Rockets' decision to waive him was likely influenced by his struggles on the court and the potential benefits that a break might yield for his mental and physical well-being.
At just 21, Griffin's decision reflects a maturity often unseen in athletes with something to prove. The sabbatical could serve as a crucial period for reflection and recovery, addressing not only his professional skills but also his passion and commitment to the game.
As it stands, Griffin's future remains an open chapter. Whether he returns with renewed vigor or explores other avenues, his time away from the court is likely to offer valuable insights that few athletes allow themselves to explore. His story serves as a potent reminder of the complex human experiences behind the professional facade in sports. For now, the basketball community will watch and wait to see what lies ahead for A.J. Griffin.