The Houston Rockets have recently made headlines by deciding to waive A.J. Griffin through a contract buyout worth $250,000. At just 21 years old, Griffin is now poised to step away from basketball, leaving fans and analysts speculating whether this hiatus will be temporary or permanent.
A Brief Stint in the NBA
Griffin entered the league with considerable promise. Selected 16th overall in the 2022 NBA Draft by the Atlanta Hawks, his talent was apparent from his single season at Duke. As a rookie, Griffin posted an average of nine points per game, with an impressive 39% shooting from beyond the arc in 20 minutes of play per game. His potential shined through when he managed to score a career-high 24 points twice during the season.
Griffin’s inaugural season included 12 starts, showcasing his potential as a formidable player. However, his journey took a detour after being traded to the Houston Rockets. The trade, which involved sending the No. 43 overall pick, Nikola Durisic, to the Hawks, was a pivotal moment in Griffin's young career.
Challenges with the Rockets
Despite his promising start, Griffin struggled to find his footing with the Rockets. His performance in the Las Vegas Summer League last July was particularly concerning, casting doubts on his future with the team. These struggles, coupled with the pressures of transitioning to a new team, undoubtedly influenced the Rockets' decision to waive him.
Griffin, the son of Adrian Griffin, a former NBA player and current head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks, has grown up under the guidance of someone who understands the game deeply. This familial connection to basketball makes his recent decision to step away from the sport all the more significant.
Contemplating the Future
As Griffin considers his next steps, the uncertainty of whether his break from basketball will be temporary or lasting remains. "Sit out the [2024-25] season while considering whether to continue his career," Griffin stated, a sentiment reported by Jonathan Feigen of the Houston Chronicle. This hiatus could prove beneficial, allowing him to reflect on his career thus far and make a well-informed decision about his future in professional basketball.
The Rockets’ decision to permit Griffin to sit out the upcoming season likely stemmed from weighing his recent struggles against the potential benefits of taking a break. This strategic move indicates the organization's willingness to support Griffin during this pivotal time in his career.
A Wait and See Approach
The basketball world will be watching closely to see how Griffin's situation unfolds. His early career showed significant promise, but the challenges he has faced highlight the unpredictable nature of professional sports. Whether Griffin will return to the court rejuvenated and ready to meet his potential, or if this marks the end of his journey in the NBA, remains to be seen.
As fans and analysts continue to dissect Griffin’s journey, one thing is clear: his story is a poignant reminder of the pressures and uncertainties that come with the world of professional sports. For now, all eyes will remain on Griffin as he takes this time to decide on the next chapter of his life, on or off the court.