Latest Posts

fedex final

FedEx Triumphs with Major Wins at the HR Excellence Awards 2025

blockchain 1

Philippine Blockchain Week: Booths and Sponsorships Now Open! Be Part of GETS 2025!

deped 1

DepEd celebrates cancer warrior, ALS innovator as new DepEd Heroes 

Former NBA Star Opens Up on Sudden Retirement, Left Basketball to Follow Jesus

Screenshot

SHARE

At just 21 years old, AJ Griffin stunned the basketball world by announcing his retirement from the NBA. A promising young talent with a bright future ahead, Griffin chose to leave the game behind—not due to injury or declining performance, but to follow his Christian faith.

Image: Photo by Dale Zanine

The former Atlanta Hawks forward, who was traded to the Houston Rockets last summer, shared his decision in a heartfelt video posted on YouTube. “I gave up basketball to follow Jesus,” Griffin stated. “I know that in a lot of people’s eyes, this may seem like a loss, but I’m excited because I get to serve God with my full ‘yes.’”

Image: Photo from ESPN

Griffin’s career appeared to be on an upward trajectory. Selected 16th overall in the 2022 NBA Draft, he quickly became known for his three-point shooting and versatility. In his rookie season with the Hawks, he averaged 8.9 points per game, shooting nearly 40% from beyond the arc. His potential was undeniable, and many believed he had a long and successful career ahead.

Image: Photo by Lapresse

However, his second season saw a decline in playing time, with injuries limiting his impact on the court. Despite this setback, few expected that he would step away entirely. While rumors of his retirement surfaced in late 2024, Griffin made it official by explaining his spiritual journey.

Image: charismanews.com

Griffin traced his decision back to 2020, when he first committed his life to Christ. “Basketball was my passion, my reason for living,” he explained. “But when I found God, He showed me that we are all made to glorify Him.” As his faith deepened, he began to see a different purpose for his life—one that extended beyond the basketball court.

Image: Photo from Youtube of AJ Griffin

Even as he played in the NBA, Griffin used his platform to share his beliefs. His social media accounts often featured Bible verses and messages about faith. His love for basketball remained strong, but he felt an undeniable pull toward ministry. “Letting go of basketball allows me to devote myself to the Church full-time and serve God with all my heart,” he said.

Image: Photo from Instagram of adrian.griffinjr

For many athletes, the NBA represents the pinnacle of success—an opportunity to achieve fame, fortune, and legacy. Griffin’s choice to leave behind a guaranteed $3.6 million contract speaks to the strength of his convictions. He understands that his decision may be met with skepticism, but he remains steadfast. “Jesus is the only One who can fulfill you. He’s the only One who can give you purpose,” he said.

Image: Photo from Instagram of adrian.griffinjr

Griffin’s story is reminiscent of other athletes who have stepped away from professional sports for their faith, but his case is particularly striking given his young age and untapped potential. Instead of chasing championships, he now focuses on spreading the Gospel. Griffin hopes his story will inspire others to trust in their faith, no matter the cost. 

“Don’t worry about the outside noise,” he encouraged. “Focus on your personal relationship with Jesus, and everything else will be added.”

*Cover Photo/Thumbnail Photo Taken by Dale Zanine

RELATED ARTICLES

fedex final

FedEx Triumphs with Major Wins at the HR Excellence Awards 2025

Federal Express Corporation, one of the world’s largest express transportation companies, took home Gold in Cross-Generational Workforce Management and Leadership Development, and Silver in Excellence...
blockchain 1

Philippine Blockchain Week: Booths and Sponsorships Now Open! Be Part of GETS 2025!

From *Blockchain to AI to the metaverse*, emerging tech is transforming the way Filipinos live, work, and come together as one community. Presented by the Department...
deped 1

DepEd celebrates cancer warrior, ALS innovator as new DepEd Heroes 

The Department of Education (DepEd) honored two extraordinary educators as part of the second batch of its DepEd Heroes, a recognition program that celebrates the...
gaming 5

Borderlands® 4 Arrives in Singapore, Concludes Southeast Asia Tour with One-Day-Only Experiential Pop-Up Launch Event

2K and Gearbox Software has announced that Borderlands® 4, the definitive looter-shooter and latest entry in the genre-defining Borderlands franchise, is now available worldwide for PlayStation®5...
broadway 1

High School & College Submissions Open for Next on Stage Season 6!

It's time to freshen up your book and warm up those pipes! Next On Stage, Broadway's biggest national competition for high school and college students, is...
tech 1

ONE°15 Marina and CocosBotanica Brings Luxury to the Senses with Olfactory Design

Luxury yachting hub and private members club ONEº15 Marina Sentosa Cove has launched its first-ever signature scent, developed in partnership with local artisanal scent and...
fedex final

FedEx Triumphs with Major Wins at the HR Excellence Awards 2025

Federal Express Corporation, one of the world’s largest express transportation companies, took home Gold in Cross-Generational Workforce Management and Leadership Development, and Silver in Excellence...
blockchain 1

Philippine Blockchain Week: Booths and Sponsorships Now Open! Be Part of GETS 2025!

From *Blockchain to AI to the metaverse*, emerging tech is transforming the way Filipinos live, work, and come together as one community. Presented by the Department...
deped 1

DepEd celebrates cancer warrior, ALS innovator as new DepEd Heroes 

The Department of Education (DepEd) honored two extraordinary educators as part of the second batch of its DepEd Heroes, a recognition program that celebrates the...

Don't Miss

viber_image_2025-09-12_14-08-28-062

Outpouring of Grief After Death of Charlie Kirk

kirk 3

Charlie Kirk’s Life Defined by Christian Service & Witness Before His Passing

Screen Shot 2025-08-26 at 10.33.59 PM

Trump links Ukraine Peace Efforts to Getting into Heaven

japan

Could Japan Become the ‘Land of the Risen Son’, Jesus? Superbook Spreads the Gospel