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2009 NBA draft number one pi ck and former six-time All-Star Blake Griffin has announced retirement after a storied 13-year career in the NBA. Griffin, famed for his magical dunking ability, was an instrumental member of the Los Angeles Clippers 'Lob City' alongside point guard Chris Paul and centre Deandre Jordan.
The 35-year-old took to social media to announce his retirement through an emotional letter expressing gratitude towards those who were with him throughout his career. Griffin thanked his parents, his brother and agent for their roles in his career.
Basketball has given me so much: Blake Griffin announces retirement
Griffin wrote: “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 have to acknowledge my parents, Tommy and Gail, and my brother, Taylor, for their unconditional support and guidance. … The game of basketball has given me so much in this life, and I wouldn’t change a thing.”
Griffin concludes his career with six All-Star selections, a Rookie of the Year Award, and three All-NBA second and two third-team appearances. The No. 1 pick of the 2009 draft, Griffin was out of the 2009-10 season due to a knee injury. But in the immediate season, Griffing made an instant impact by posting 22.5 ppg, 12.1 rpg and 3.8 apg to be named the unanimous Rookie of the Year.
Playing for the Clippers, Griffin averaged 21.6 ppg, 9.3 rpg and 4.2 apg, making the All-NBA Second Team three times (2012-14), an All-NBA Third Team in 2015 and five All-Star games. After LA, the University of Oklahoma alumnus was traded to the Detroit Pistons, where he made an All-NBA team and All-Star appearance.
After a three-year stint with the Pistons, Blake Griffin was picked up by the Brooklyn Nets. After 1 1/2 seasons in Brooklyn, Griffin joined the Celtics and soon concluded his career. In 13 total seasons, Griffin posted career averages of 19.0 points, 8.0 rebounds and 4.0 assists.