The Houston Rockets have made a significant decision by waiving A.J. Griffin through a contract buyout worth $250,000. Griffin, who is just 21 years old, is poised to step away from basketball, marking a potentially pivotal moment in his young career.
Drafted 16th overall by the Atlanta Hawks in the 2022 NBA Draft, Griffin had shown considerable promise during his rookie season. After an impressive stint at Duke, where he played just a single season, Griffin entered the NBA with high expectations. As a rookie, he averaged nine points per game, showcasing his shooting prowess with a 39% success rate from beyond the arc in just 20 minutes of play per game. Griffin's highlight moments included scoring a career-best 24 points twice, hinting at his significant potential.
Despite these flashes of brilliance, Griffin's journey took an unexpected turn when he was traded to the Houston Rockets. The trade, which involved sending the No. 43 overall pick, Nikola Durisic, to the Hawks, was seen as a fresh start for the young forward. However, Griffin struggled to find his footing with the Rockets, particularly during the Las Vegas Summer League last July, where his performance was underwhelming.
Decision to Step Away
The decision to waive Griffin comes at a time when he is contemplating his future in the sport. According to Jonathan Feigen of the Houston Chronicle, Griffin plans to "sit out the [2024-25] season while considering whether to continue his career." This hiatus raises questions about whether his departure from the game will be temporary or permanent.
Griffin's decision to step back could be influenced by multiple factors, including his recent struggles and the potential benefits of taking a break. The Rockets' willingness to permit Griffin to sit out the upcoming season likely reflects an understanding of these circumstances, recognizing that a hiatus may offer Griffin the necessary time to reassess his career trajectory.
A Complicated Legacy
The young forward's basketball journey is further complicated by his familial connections. Griffin is the son of Adrian Griffin, a former NBA player and currently the head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks. This lineage adds another layer of complexity to his decision, as expectations and comparisons may weigh heavily on him.
Griffin's early career had the hallmarks of success, yet the challenges he faced with the Rockets underscore the unpredictable nature of professional sports. His experience serves as a reminder that even highly-touted prospects can encounter unforeseen obstacles that alter their career paths.
The Road Ahead
As Griffin embarks on this period of reflection, the broader basketball community will watch closely to see how his story unfolds. Whether he decides to make a comeback or pursue new endeavors outside of basketball, his journey will undoubtedly offer valuable insights into the pressures and complexities faced by young athletes in the spotlight.
In a sport where resilience and adaptability are key, Griffin's next steps will be crucial. The support from the Rockets organization in allowing him this break may prove instrumental in his personal and professional development. For now, A.J. Griffin's future in basketball remains uncertain, but his story continues to resonate as a poignant chapter in the ever-evolving narrative of the NBA.