In a surprising turn of events, the Houston Rockets have opted to waive A.J. Griffin through a contract buyout worth $250,000. At just 21 years old, Griffin is considering stepping away from basketball, leaving fans and analysts alike questioning whether his hiatus will be temporary or permanent.
Early Promise
Griffin’s journey began with substantial promise. Selected 16th overall in the 2022 NBA Draft by the Atlanta Hawks, he had an impressive stint playing one 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, all within 20 minutes of play per game. During his rookie season, he demonstrated flashes of brilliance, managing to score a career-best 24 points on two occasions and earning 12 starting positions.
Challenges in Houston
Griffin's move to the Houston Rockets came through a trade deal that sent the No. 43 overall pick, Nikola Durisic, to the Hawks. However, his tenure with the Rockets proved challenging. His struggles became more pronounced during the Las Vegas Summer League last July, casting a shadow over his earlier successes.
Family Influence
The decision to waive Griffin was made as he pondered his future in basketball. Griffin, who is the son of Adrian Griffin—a former NBA player and the current head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks—has a strong basketball lineage. Despite this, the pressures and challenges of maintaining a professional career in the sport have led him to consider stepping away.
"Sit out the [2024-25] season while considering whether to continue his career," Griffin reportedly said, according to Jonathan Feigen of the Houston Chronicle.
Potential Benefits of a Break
The Rockets' decision to allow Griffin to sit out the upcoming season appears to be influenced by a combination of his recent struggles and the potential benefits a break could offer. Time away from the court might provide the young player with the clarity needed to make a more informed decision about his future, enabling him to either rejuvenate his basketball career or explore new avenues.
Griffin's situation serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of professional sports careers. While talent and early promise can set the stage, the grueling demands and intense competition can take a toll, sometimes necessitating a pause. As the basketball community watches closely, all eyes will be on Griffin, hoping for a positive outcome, be it a triumphant return or a new chapter beyond the sport.