'Dynamic' NBA star bows out after stellar 14-year career

Blake Griffin has announced his retirement after a 14-year NBA career that included six All-Star selections and Rookie of the Year honours.

Griffin revealed via social media that he’s “thankful for every single moment” of his tenure in the league, which saw him represent four franchises.

The 35-year-old was the No. 1 overall pick by the Los Angeles Clippers out of Oklahoma in the 2009 draft, but missed his first season with a knee injury.

Griffin rebounded to earn the NBA Rookie of the Year award in 2011 and alongside Chris Paul and DeAndre Jordan, his high-flying plays rejuvenated the Clippers franchise and earned it the nickname “Lob City.”

He was later traded to the Detroit Pistons during the 2018 season as his ability to soar dwindled and injuries piled up, before short stays with the Nets and Celtics.

“Blake was a big part of the turnaround here,” said Tyronn Lue, the current Clippers coach who was an assistant on the staff early in Griffin’s LA career.

“Blake was one of the most dynamic players we’ve seen in this league for a long time as far as athletic-wise. One thing he doesn’t get credit for is his passing ability.

“He had a great career.”

Griffin averaged 19.0 points and 8.0 rebounds in his career and finished third in MVP voting behind Kevin Durant and LeBron James in the 2013-14 season.

“I’m thankful for every single moment — not just the good ones: the wins, the awards, the dunks, and the memorable times spent with family, friends, fans, teammates and coaches,” Griffin said via social media.

“I am equally thankful for the not-so-good moments: the losses, the injuries, the way too many surgeries, the lessons, the heartbreaks, and it wouldn’t be sports retirement letter without acknowledging the ‘haters.’

“All of these experiences made my 14 years in the league truly unforgettable, and I can’t help but just feel thankful.”

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