NBA player gives up career to pursue full-time Christian ministry

Professional basketball player A.J. Griffin of the Atlanta Hawks is walking away from a lucrative career to go into full-time ministry.

“I gave up basketball to follow Jesus,” he said. “And I know that, in a lot of people’s eyes, that seems like a loss in the world’s eyes. But I just want to let you guys know that I’m super excited, because I truly get to serve God with my full ‘yes,’ and I feel like letting go of basketball is allowing me to go into full-time ministry and truly serving the Lord with all my heart — with all my time as well.”

He went on to say that his values and heart changed after finding Jesus in 2020. Although basketball initially was his everything, Griffin said God shifted his heart more and more toward him. “When I came to God, he truly showed me that we’re all made to glorify God,” he said. “We’re all made with a God-given purpose, but we must step into that.”

Fellow basketball player Jonathan Isaac, an outspoken Christian who plays for the Orlando Magic and recently launched Unitus, a values-based apparel company, praised Griffin’s move.

“Can’t say I’m not saddened!” Isaac wrote on X. “League lost a really good player and even better dude! I’m so proud of him for his heart and commitment to Christ and putting it on display. Can’t wait to see God’s will for his life continue to unfold!”

Others also are supporting Griffin, although some have wondered why he couldn’t play basketball while pursuing ministry. He made it clear he felt called to step away and fully devote himself to the Lord, pledging to make social media content pointing people toward Christ.

“The only thing that truly matters is a relationship with Jesus,” Griffin said. “I’m just excited to keep doing the work of the Lord.”

–Alan Goforth | Metro Voice