The basketball journey of A.J. Griffin has taken an unexpected turn as the Houston Rockets have decided to waive the 21-year-old player through a contract buyout worth $250,000. This move allows Griffin, who was mulling over his future in the sport, to take a hiatus and reconsider his career path. This decision comes after a challenging period for the young talent, who faced noticeable struggles on the court, most recently in the Las Vegas Summer League.
Early Promise and Draft Journey
Griffin's professional beginnings were filled with promise. At just 21, he is already at a crossroads in his burgeoning career. After an impressive season at Duke, Griffin entered the 2022 NBA Draft and was selected as the 16th overall pick by the Atlanta Hawks. His rookie season showed glimpses of potential, with Griffin averaging nine points per game and an impressive 39% shooting from beyond the arc in an average of 20 minutes of play.
Despite limited starts—only 12 games—Griffin managed to post standout performances, including scoring a career-high 24 points on two occasions. However, consistent performance eluded him, which perhaps foreshadowed the current uncertainty about his basketball future.
Trade to Houston Rockets
Griffin's trajectory took another significant turn when he was traded to the Houston Rockets. The deal also saw the No. 43 overall pick, Nikola Durisic, move to the Hawks. This trade brought fresh hopes and challenges for Griffin, but the transition proved difficult. His performance in the Las Vegas Summer League last July was less than stellar, contributing to the Rockets' decision to reevaluate his fit with the team.
Contemplating the Future
The decision to waive Griffin comes amid his contemplation of whether to step away from basketball, at least temporarily. According to Jonathan Feigen of the Houston Chronicle, Griffin is planning to "sit out the [2024-25] season while considering whether to continue his career." This pause will be a critical period for Griffin as he reassesses his passion and path in professional sports.
The influence of his father, Adrian Griffin, a former NBA player and current head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks, cannot be understated in this scenario. The elder Griffin's experience and insights will likely play a pivotal role as A.J. navigates this defining moment in his career.
A Time for Reflection
The Rockets' decision to permit Griffin to sit out the upcoming season suggests a mutual understanding of the benefits such a break could offer. Throughout his young career, Griffin has shown resilience and talent, but the pressures and demands of professional basketball require both physical and mental fortitude. This hiatus could provide the necessary reset for Griffin to gain perspective and clarity.
For now, the basketball community watches and waits, respecting Griffin’s need for time and space to make an informed decision about his future. Whether he returns rejuvenated and ready to refocus on his professional career or chooses a new path altogether, the next chapter for A.J. Griffin remains unwritten.
As fans, analysts, and stakeholders observe his next steps, there is a shared hope that whatever decision Griffin makes will be the right one for him. After all, the journey of a professional athlete is as much about personal growth and fulfillment as it is about career achievements and statistics.