Blake Griffin Announces Retirement From NBA

NBA player Blake Griffin attends the Michael Jackson diamond birthday celebration at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino on August 29, 2018 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
LAS VEGAS, NV – AUGUST 29: NBA player Blake Griffin attends the Michael Jackson diamond birthday celebration at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino on August 29, 2018 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Gabe Ginsberg/FilmMagic)
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Blake Griffin is officially hanging his jersey up.

The 35-year-old forward shared a the announcement via Instagram.

In a statement he says,“I never envisioned myself as the guy who would have a “letter to basketball” retirement announcement… and I’m still not going to be that guy. But as I reflected on my career, the one feeling I kept coming back to and the one thing ! wanted to express was thankfulness. I’m thankful for every single moment-not just the good ones: the wins, the awards, the dunks, and the memorable times spent with family, friends, fans, teammates, and coaches.”

Griffin played with the Los Angeles Clippers for over 7 years and made the All-Star team 6 times. He then played for the Detroit Pistons in 2018. Finishing off his career he briefly played for the Brooklyn Nets, Boston Celtics and as a free agent for the 2023-24 season.

The statement continued, “I could continue on about the people in my life who have contributed immensely to my career, but in this short non-letter, I have to acknowledge my parents, Tommy and Gail, and my brother, Taylor, for their unconditional support and guidance. Lastly, my agent Sam Goldfeder, who has been a steadfast voice of reason and my wartime consigliere thank you.”

“I am equally thankful for the not-so-good moments: the losses, the injuries, the wayyyy too many surgeries, the lessons, the heartbreaks, and it wouldn’t be sports retirement letter without acknowledging the “haters.” All of these experiences made my 14 years in the league truly unforgettable, and I can’t help but to just feel thankful. The game of basketball has given me so much in this life, and I wouldn’t change a thing. Last but certainly not least, here comes the obligatory I’m excited for my next chapter part: just kidding, I’m done. Thank you.”

Job well done, Griffin.