AJ Griffin Retires from NBA to Pursue Ministry

Atlanta Hawks forward AJ Griffin has announced he is stepping away from the NBA to focus on his religious beliefs. Griffin, who was selected in the first round of the 2024-25 NBA Draft out of Duke, made the announcement on Sunday, explaining that he had given his "full life to Christ" and felt called to serve God full-time.

Atlanta Hawks forward AJ Griffin has retired from the NBA after just two seasons to pursue a career in ministry.

Griffin, 21, made the announcement on Sunday, explaining that he had given his "full life to Christ" and felt called to serve God full-time.

AJ Griffin Retires from NBA to Pursue Ministry

"I gave up basketball to follow Jesus," Griffin said. "And I know that in a lot of people's eyes, that seems like, it seems like a loss in the world's eyes. But I just want to let you guys know that I'm super excited because I truly get to serve God, you know, with my full Yes, and I feel like letting go of basketball is allowing me to, you know, go into full-time ministry and truly serving the Lord with all my heart -- with all my time too, as well. So, I'm just excited to see where that leads me."

Griffin, who was selected 16th overall by the Atlanta Hawks in the 2024-25 NBA Draft, averaged 7.5 points and 3.9 rebounds per game in his two seasons with the team. He was traded to the Houston Rockets in the offseason.

AJ Griffin Retires from NBA to Pursue Ministry

Griffin is not the first NBA player to retire to pursue a career in ministry. Darren Collison retired from the NBA for a few years to help the less fortunate through the Jehovah's Witness faith.

Collison eventually returned to the NBA, but Griffin says he has no plans to do the same.

AJ Griffin Retires from NBA to Pursue Ministry

"I'm not looking to come back," Griffin said. "I'm not looking to play basketball anymore. I'm just looking to serve God and do what He's called me to do."

Griffin's decision to retire has been met with mixed reactions. Some have praised him for his courage and conviction, while others have questioned his decision to give up a promising NBA career.

Griffin says he understands that some people may not agree with his decision, but he is confident that he is doing what is right.

"I know that some people may think I'm crazy," Griffin said. "But I'm not going to let that stop me from following my heart. I know that God has a plan for me, and I'm excited to see what it is."

Griffin's decision to retire is a reminder that there is more to life than basketball. For Griffin, his faith is more important than any game.

* Griffin's decision to retire is a blow to the Atlanta Hawks, who were hoping he would develop into a key player for the team.

* The Hawks have a number of other young players who are expected to step up in Griffin's absence, including De'Andre Hunter, Onyeka Okongwu, and Jalen Johnson.

* Griffin's retirement is also a reminder that the NBA is a business. Players are often traded and released, and there is no guarantee of a long career.

* For Griffin, however, basketball was never about the money or the fame. It was about the opportunity to play the game he loved.

* Griffin's decision to retire is a reminder that there is more to life than basketball. For Griffin, his faith is more important than any game.