Oklahoma City Thunder star announces retirement, opening a new chapter in life.
Gordon Hayward, who played for the Oklahoma City Thunder, has officially announced the end of his 14-year NBA career. On social media, he expressed his gratitude for this journey and looks forward to a new life in the future.
Gordon Hayward was selected by the Utah Jazz with the 9th pick in the 2010 NBA Draft and quickly showed outstanding skills. In the 2016-17 season, he was named an All-Star, demonstrating the potential to become one of the league’s top small forwards. However, shortly after his transfer to the Boston Celtics in 2017, Hayward encountered the most significant setback of his professional career. In his first game with the Celtics, he suffered a severe left leg fracture, leading to missing the entire season. Over the following seasons, Hayward’s playing time was frequently affected by injuries, preventing him from fully recovering to his peak form.
In the 2020-21 season, Hayward joined the Charlotte Hornets, hoping to revitalize his career in a new environment. However, injury issues continued to plague him, preventing him from showcasing his full potential. In the past season, he was traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder. The team hoped that his wealth of experience could guide the young players forward, but unfortunately, Hayward’s poor performance in the playoffs, playing 7 games without scoring a single point, has raised doubts about his future in the eyes of the public.
Hayward stated in his retirement announcement: “I officially retire from the basketball court, grateful to God for this unbelievable journey. I am very thankful to those who have helped me along the way; your support has been unwavering. I am looking forward to the next chapter of my life, where I will be a father to my wife and four children. I also appreciate the support of my family; you are my source of strength. Even though I could have been at home with you, you always encouraged me to keep playing.”
Hayward’s retirement also makes people inevitably look back at the 2010 draft class. Among the members of this class, only Paul George is still fighting in the NBA, symbolizing the end of an era. Hayward’s retirement not only marks the end of his personal career but also bids farewell to an era.
In his 14-year NBA career, Hayward experienced the brilliance of going from a rookie to an All-Star, as well as facing significant injury challenges. In his retirement statement, he expressed gratitude for his basketball career and hope for the future. He plans to dedicate more time to his family, starting a new chapter in life as a father and husband.
