Blake Griffin Announces His Retirement After 14 Years in the NBA
FIN. That is the word that a NBA player that has hosted the Espys, was a first round overall pick in 2009; Rookie of the Year and the winner of a NBA Slam Dunk Contest; chose to signal the finish of his era in basketball. Fin is a French word that simply means, “the end.” Therefore, it’s time to close out a chapter everyone… Blake Griffin announces his retirement after 14 years in the NBA.
Griffin has played on a few different teams in his tenure. The Clippers, Celtics, Nets and Pistons. No championship or rings, but had the heart of champ. And was an NBA All Star 6 times throughout his sports journey.
Nevertheless, it does not matter how long of a career a player may have; or how successful it is; many athletes still struggle to say goodbye. Their profession has been the work of their life; oftentimes since childhood. So the ending can be tough.
Some athletes hold press conferences to share retirement news and plans. Others hit up a podcast. Still some choose to write out their feelings and release it to the public. Griffin chose the latter. Which is interesting, because it’s something he never saw himself doing previously. He mentions this in his goodbye letter to the NBA, stating,
“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 I 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. 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 quidance. Lastly, my agent Sam Goldfeder, who has been a steadfast voice of reason and my wartime consigliere thank you.”
Nice. It’s true, it takes a village. Especially, when it comes to getting through challenges; and ups and downs.
Blake Griffin Announces His Retirement After 14 Years in the NBA
Blake finishes his “non-letter” by addressing his many unfortunate injuries, that plagued him. He also speaks on naysayers and his overall thoughts on his experiences in basketball. Griffin concludes,
“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,
Blake Griffin
Wait. Am I that guy?”
Yes Blake, you are that guy. But, we don’t mind it one bit. Thanks for all the exciting and fun memories and hope that you enjoy your ‘next chapter.’
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