The Houston Rockets have made a significant move by deciding to waive A.J. Griffin through a contract buyout worth $250,000. At just 21 years old, Griffin is poised to take a step away from basketball, leaving the future of his professional career in the balance.
Selected 16th overall in the 2022 NBA Draft by the Atlanta Hawks, Griffin showed potential early on. During his single season with Duke, he demonstrated his promising skills, eventually averaging nine points per game on impressive 39% 3-point shooting while playing 20 minutes per game as a rookie. Griffin’s debut season included highlights such as scoring a career-best 24 points twice and starting in 12 games, underlining his capability to perform on the big stage.
Despite these flashes of brilliance, Griffin’s transition to the Houston Rockets came with its fair share of challenges. Traded to the Rockets in a deal that involved sending the No. 43 overall pick, Nikola Durisic, to the Hawks, Griffin struggled to find his footing with his new team. His performance in the Las Vegas Summer League last July particularly stood out as a point of difficulty, raising questions about his readiness for the upcoming NBA season.
Struggles and Familial Ties
Griffin's recent struggles with the Rockets have been a significant factor in his decision to contemplate his future in the sport. The Rockets' decision to waive Griffin likely stemmed from these struggles, coupled with a strategic move to allow him some breathing room. The organization’s decision was also influenced by potential benefits of taking a break for both the player and the team.
The background of Griffin's basketball lineage cannot be overlooked. He is the son of Adrian Griffin, a former NBA player who is currently the head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks. This connection adds another layer of complexity to A.J. Griffin's journey, as he navigates the expectations and pressures that come with being part of a basketball legacy.
Evaluating the Future
As Griffin plans to "sit out the [2024-25] season while considering whether to continue his career," according to Jonathan Feigen of the Houston Chronicle, the lingering question remains whether his hiatus will be temporary or permanent. The Rockets' support in permitting him to sit out the season reflects an understanding of his situation and the potential long-term benefits of this period of reflection.
At 21, the decision to step away from a burgeoning career is undoubtedly harrowing for Griffin. However, this break could serve as a pivotal moment, allowing him to evaluate his commitment to the sport and explore other avenues within or outside the basketball court.
The waiver moves to highlight a broader trend in professional sports where young athletes are given the leeway to assess their mental and physical readiness without the immediate pressures of performance. Griffin’s situation mirrors cases where athletes prioritize their well-being over immediate career advancements.
Final Thoughts
As the sports world watches A.J. Griffin’s journey closely, his story serves as a reminder of the multifaceted challenges young athletes face. The Houston Rockets have set a precedent by supporting Griffin’s need to prioritize his personal and professional well-being.
Whether Griffin's time away from basketball marks the end or merely a pause in his professional journey, his story remains a testament to the ever-evolving nature of sports careers and the importance of mental health in athletic performance.