More than two years ago, the Atlanta Hawks selected forward AJ Griffin out of Duke in the first round of the NBA Draft.

But before the 2024-25 season ended, Griffin announced he was retiring from the NBA. He had played in 92 games and averaged 7.5 points and 17.1 minutes per game. In the offseason he was traded from the Hawks to the Houston Rockets.

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Atlanta Hawks guard AJ Griffin, #14, takes photos during Hawks Media Day in Atlanta on October 2, 2023. (Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports)

He explained Sunday why he decided to retire from basketball.

“I gave up basketball to follow Jesus,” he said. “And I know that in the eyes of many people it seems like a loss, in the eyes of the world. But I just want to let you know that I’m super excited because I get to really serve God, you guys.” You know, with my full yes, and I feel like by giving up basketball I’m going into full-time ministry and can truly serve the Lord with all my heart – even with all my time. I’m just excited to see where this takes me.

Griffin said his decision was because he gave his “entire life to Christ” in 2020.

Atlanta Hawks forward AJ Griffin, #14, dribbles during the first half against the Washington Wizards at State Farm Arena in Atlanta on April 5, 2023. (Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports)

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The 21-year-old Texas native isn’t the only NBA player who has decided to put his career on hold and dedicate his life to faith.

Darren Collison retired from the NBA for a few years to help the less fortunate through the Jehovah’s Witnesses faith.

Atlanta Hawks forward AJ Griffin, No. 14, boxes out Indiana Pacers forward Jalen Smith, No. 25, during the second half at State Farm Arena in Atlanta on March 25, 2023. (Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports)

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“Although I still love basketball, I know that there is something more important, namely my family and my faith,” he said in a letter to Andscape at the time. “I am a Jehovah’s Witness and my faith means everything to me. I find so much joy in volunteering to help others and participating in a global service. The joy I feel is unmatched. With that in mind, I have decided to retire from the NBA.”

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