Blake Griffin retires from the NBA after a 14-year career, with his last season being with the Boston Celtics in 2022-23.
What led to his retirement?
Griffin's decision comes after a notable decline in his performance due to persistent injuries.
He averaged 4.1 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.5 assists in 13.9 minutes per game during the 2022-23 season.
His notable career achievements
The 2011 Slam Dunk champion had a remarkable career, especially during his time with the Los Angeles Clippers.
He was drafted first overall in 2009 and made an immediate impact in the 2010-11 season, averaging 22.5 points, 12.1 rebounds, and 3.8 assists.
Griffin's athleticism and explosive dunks earned him a spot as one of the most dominant players in the league.
His time with the Clippers
Alongside DeAndre Jordan and Chris Paul, Griffin helped establish the Clippers' "Lob City" era, which peaked with a 57-win season in 2013-14.
He re-signed with the Clippers on a five-year, $173-million deal but was traded to the Detroit Pistons just six months later.
His career after the Clippers
In the 2018-19 season with the Detroit Pistons, Griffin averaged a career-best 24.5 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 5.4 assists.
He also developed his three-point shooting, attempting seven shots per contest and shooting 36.2 percent from beyond the arc.
Griffin joined the Brooklyn Nets in 2021 after a buyout and played a reserve role, making occasional starts.
His retirement marks the end of an era for a player who brought excitement and energy to the NBA,
"said Doc Rivers, the coach who worked with Griffin during his time with the Clippers.
And Griffin's impact on the game will be remembered for years to come, with his vicious poster dunks being a highlight of his career.
But his legacy extends beyond his playing career, as he inspired a generation of players with his athleticism and work ethic.
So Griffin's retirement is not just the end of his playing career, but also the beginning of a new chapter in his life,
with Griffin likely to remain involved in the basketball world in some capacity.
What's next for Blake Griffin?
The future is uncertain for Griffin, but his legacy in the NBA is cemented,
with six All-Star appearances and a Rookie of the Year award to his name.
And as he moves on to the next stage of his life, Griffin will always be remembered as one of the most explosive athletes in the league,
with a career marked by highlight-reel dunks and dominant performances.