Blake Griffin Bids Farewell to NBA Courts: A Retrospective Journey

After a season away from the NBA, Blake Griffin has officially announced his retirement from professional basketball. The former first overall pick shared a heartfelt statement on Instagram, expressing gratitude for the 14 unforgettable years he spent in the league.

Gratitude for the Journey

Rereading his letter of retirement, there is one line where he acknowledges his family, friends, fans, teammates, and coaches for being with him and help him through his racing career. He likewise admitted to the difficulties that he encountered, which were injuries, surgeries and setbacks as well which helped him develop off and on the playing court.

“I am equally thankful for the not-so-good moments: the losses, the way too many surgeries, the lessons, the tears, and this (retirement letter) wouldn’t be sports retirement letter without the ‘haters.’ So, lets talk about the way I achieved something that was not expected from me at all. “These things might have made my 14 years in the league unique and unforgettable. There was so much fun, joy, and gratitude in this period of my life.”

Family First

Notwithstanding the support he received from his teammates Sam to go back to the court, he chose the most preferable way of being with his family. At 35, it was then that he assessed what was most important to him in his life, allowing himself to take the first step to bidding farewell to the basketball life that had made him a household name.

Career Highlights

Griffin’s years with the NBA proved him to be an all-around star- player, being able to execute all forms of scoring, rebounding, and playmaking. He posted those stats, averaging 19.0 points, 8.0 rebounds and 4.0 assists over the course 14 seasons. His team he will always remember playing is the Los Angeles Clippers, with him having made five all-star appearances there. He was also awarded an All-Star tribute in 2019, which took place while he was playing for the Detroit Pistons.

Whether it was his incredible dunking or just a show of his athleticism, Griffin turned out to be a player who truly changed the face of the NBA during his prime performance. Nevertheless, the wear and tear that came with injuries and surgeries over the past few years transformed his personality, which in turn contributed to the decision he made to retire.

Life After Basketball

Acquainted with more than $255 million made in his NBA career, Griffin dedicated his latter years to the exploration of other interests apart from basketball. As he goes about that next stage of his life, it will be interesting to watch what he will delve further into.

Conclusion

Blake Griffin’s retirement marks the end of an era for one of the NBA’s most dynamic players. While injuries may have impacted the latter part of his career, Griffin’s impact on the game and his contributions to basketball will not be forgotten. As he transitions into retirement, fans will remember him for his incredible athleticism, memorable dunks, and the joy he brought to the court throughout his 14-year career.