The Houston Rockets have made headlines with their recent decision to waive A.J. Griffin, opting for a contract buyout worth $250,000. This significant move comes as Griffin, a notable name in the NBA due to both his and his father's legacies, contemplates a hiatus from professional basketball at just 21 years old.
Griffin’s journey in the NBA began when he was selected 16th overall in the 2022 NBA Draft by the Atlanta Hawks. The promising young player came into the league with high expectations after an impressive single season at Duke. As a rookie, Griffin 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.
Despite his potential and strong start, Griffin’s rookie season wasn’t without its challenges. He managed to score a career-best 24 points in two different games and started in 12 games, but his momentum didn’t seem to carry through consistently. His stint with the Hawks was cut short when he was traded to the Houston Rockets. The trade package included sending the 43rd overall pick, Serbian forward Nikola Durisic, to Atlanta.
Struggles in Houston
Griffin’s time with the Rockets was marked by struggles, particularly highlighted during the Las Vegas Summer League last July. These challenges on the court contributed to discussions around his future in basketball. The Rockets, facing decisions on their roster and observing Griffin’s performance, appear to have taken notice of his difficulties adapting to his new team and circumstances.
Reports suggest that Griffin has been contemplating his future in the sport, a process that has ultimately led to the Rockets’ decision to waive him. "Sit out the [2024-25] season while considering whether to continue his career," Griffin stated, as reported by Jonathan Feigen of the Houston Chronicle. This decision to step away, be it temporary or permanent, opens a new chapter for the young athlete.
A Legacy of the Game
It’s noteworthy that A.J. Griffin comes from a basketball family, with his father, Adrian Griffin, having played in the NBA and currently serving as the head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks. This background adds a layer of complexity and depth to Griffin’s choices, as he navigates his career with the influence and insight of his father’s experiences in the professional realm.
The Rockets’ decision to honor Griffin’s wish to sit out the upcoming 2024-25 season reflects a level of understanding and perhaps even a strategic pause. Given his recent struggles, this break could offer him the much-needed time to reflect, recover, and evaluate his passion and commitment to the sport.
Future Uncertain
As Griffin steps away to assess his next moves, the basketball community will undoubtedly watch closely. His potential has been evident since his early days at Duke, and many wonder if this hiatus will serve as a catalyst for a renewed and more focused return to the court or mark the end of a promising but challenging basketball journey.
The decision by the Rockets also allows them to refocus their roster and development plans, adapting to the current dynamics and Griffin’s absence. It’s a moment of transition for both the player and the franchise, each aligning their future trajectories in the complex and often unpredictable world of professional sports.
While it remains uncertain whether Griffin's break from basketball will be temporary or permanent, the decision to step away at this juncture in his career is a significant one. Observers and fans alike will be watching to see how this young player, with so many years ahead of him, will chart his course moving forward.