The decision has been made by a former NBA All-Star to end his career.
Gordon Hayward posted a lengthy statement on social media on Thursday announcing his retirement. Thanking his “coaches, teammates, trainers, doctors, friends, and family,” the 34-year-old said that they had “helped me exceed my own expectations.” Moreover, Hayward acknowledged his parents, wife Robyn, and supporters.
“God has blessed me with an amazing journey, one that has taken turns I couldn’t have expected or dreamed of as a kid in Brownsburg, Indiana,” Hayward wrote. “Today, I am officially retiring from the game of basketball. It’s been an incredible ride and I’m so grateful to everyone who helped me achieve more than I ever imagined.”
At the trade deadline the previous season, Hayward was acquired by the Oklahoma City Thunder from the Charlotte Hornets, where he last played. After OKC was ousted in the second round, he ended up playing infrequently for the young Thunder and publicly expressing his disappointment.
Hayward’s wife even voiced her disapproval of Thunder general manager Sam Presti on the circumstance. This offseason, there were rumors that Hayward was being courted by a team in the Western Conference, but he ultimately made the decision to retire.
With 14 NBA seasons, Hayward was a player with the Utah Jazz, Boston Celtics, Hornets, and Thunder. Throughout his career, he averaged 15.2 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game. With 21.9 points per game, Hayward had his best scoring season in 2017 and was chosen an All-Star.
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