Blake Griffin Retires from NBA After 14 Remarkable Seasons

Blake Griffin Announces His NBA Retirement After 14 Seasons

Blake Griffin. Corey Nickols/Getty Images for IMDb

After a successful career in the NBA that left a lasting impact, Blake Griffin has decided to retire. The announcement was made by Griffin, who is 35 years old, through a statement shared on his social media platforms on Tuesday, April 16.

Griffin wrote that he never saw himself making a formal retirement announcement addressed to basketball. Despite this, he wanted to express his gratitude as he looked back on his career.

He last played during the 2022-2023 season after signing a one-year contract with the Boston Celtics.

"I'm grateful for every moment, not just the good ones like wins, awards, dunks, and special times with family, friends, fans, teammates, and coaches," Griffin expressed. "I wish I could mention everyone who has supported my career, but I want to thank my parents, Tommy and Gail, and my brother, Taylor, for their unwavering support and guidance."

Drafted as the first overall pick by the Los Angeles Clippers in 2009, Griffin played for eight seasons in L.A. before being traded to the Detroit Pistons in 2018. Despite facing injuries throughout his career, Griffin also played for the Brooklyn Nets for two seasons before his final contract with the Celtics.

Griffin expressed gratitude for the challenging moments in his career, including losses, injuries, numerous surgeries, lessons learned, heartbreaks, and dealing with critics. He believes that these experiences have made his 14 years in the league truly unforgettable and he is grateful for them.

To end his retirement letter, the six-time All-Star added a touch of humor.

Griffin expressed his gratitude for all that basketball has brought into his life, stating that he wouldn't change a thing. He humorously added that he's not going to say the obligatory 'excited for the next chapter' line - he's simply done.

Aside from his skills on the basketball court, Griffin gained attention for his relationship with Kendall Jenner off the court. The couple was together from September 2017 to March 2018.

Griffin has two children, son Ford who is 10 years old and daughter Finley who is 7, with his ex-fiancée Brynn Cameron.

Recently, the former Oklahoma Sooners star has been branching out into Hollywood, with roles in the 2023 remake of White Men Can’t Jump and portraying Muhammad Ali in 2023’s History of the World: Part II.

Griffin previously hosted the prank show Double Cross With Blake Griffin, which ran for one season on TruTV in 2021.

Editor's P/S:

Blake Griffin's retirement announcement is a bittersweet moment for basketball fans. His dynamic play and impressive performances on the court have left an indelible mark on the sport. From his gravity-defying dunks to his leadership on the court, Griffin has consistently showcased his athleticism and determination. His journey, marked by both triumphs and setbacks, serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes and fans alike.

Beyond his basketball career, Griffin has also made strides in the entertainment industry, with notable roles in films and television shows. His versatility and willingness to explore new avenues are a testament to his multifaceted personality. As he embarks on this new chapter, it is exciting to anticipate the contributions he will make both on and off the screen. Griffin's retirement may signal the end of his NBA career, but it is evident that his impact on the world of sports and entertainment will continue to resonate for years to come.