John Wall, one of the most outstanding point guards of his generation, confirmed on Tuesday that he is retiring from professional basketball. The announcement was made through a video on his social networks, where he reviewed his journey from humble beginnings to becoming an NBA reference for more than a decade.
“I gave everything to the game,” Wall said in an emotional tone, thanking his family, coaches, teammates and, above all, the fans who accompanied him every step of the way. He also dedicated special words to his mother, to whom he attributed much of the sacrifices that allowed him to achieve stardom.
Selected by the Washington Wizards with the number one pick in the 2010 Draft, Wall quickly became a franchise star. With his blistering speed and incredible vision, he led the Wizards to multiple playoff appearances and was named an All-Star five times. His best spell was interrupted by a series of serious injuries, especially to his Achilles tendon, which limited his continuity in the league.
After his time with the Houston Rockets and a final stint with the Los Angeles Clippers in 2023, Wall did not play another official game. During this time he explored avenues off the court, including the world of broadcasting, although he always left the door open for a possible return that ultimately did not materialize.Despite these last few years, he averaged 18.7 points, 8.9 assists and 4.2 rebounds per game in his NBA career, real star numbers.
“I’m stepping away from the game, but I’m not stepping away from the game,” he said, making it clear that his connection to basketball will continue in other ways. “It’s time to move confidently into my next chapter,” he said. “Retired, but never finished. I’m doing it the Wall way,” the former player commented.
The basketball world, and especially the NBA, bids farewell to one of the most charismatic and spectacular point guards of the last decade.
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