Former lottery pick and four-time All-Star Kemba Walker has announced his retirement from professional basketball, bringing an end to a dynamic 12-year career in the NBA. Walker shared the announcement on Tuesday, expressing gratitude for his journey and the opportunities basketball has afforded him.
"I want to start this by thanking God for everything he has given me. Basketball has done more for me than I could've ever imagined, and I am super thankful for the amazing journey I've had," Walker said. "With that, I'm here to share that I am officially retiring from the game of basketball. This has all been a dream. When I look back, I still can't believe the things I achieved in my career."
A Storied NBA Career
Walker’s impact on the court was felt across four different franchises. Selected ninth overall by the then-Charlotte Bobcats in the 2012 NBA Draft, Walker quickly established himself as a key player. Over the course of his career, he made three All-Star appearances with the Bobcats, a testament to his skill and leadership. Walker was also named to the All-NBA Second Team, cementing his status as one of the premier guards of his generation.
Transitioning to the Boston Celtics in a sign-and-trade deal in 2019, Walker's arrival saw Terry Rozier heading to the Hornets. In his first season with Boston, he was selected as an All-Star and played a pivotal role in helping the Celtics reach the Eastern Conference finals in the NBA bubble. However, his time in Boston was marred by recurring knee soreness and other health issues, challenging the star guard's ability to maintain peak performance.
Final Teams and Overseas Play
Following his stint with the Celtics, Walker had brief tenures with the New York Knicks and the Dallas Mavericks before concluding his NBA journey in 2023. Throughout his career, Walker consistently delivered, averaging 19.3 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 5.3 assists over 750 games, showcasing his scoring prowess and playmaking abilities.
Walker's career didn't end stateside; he also spent a season overseas playing for AS Monaco, further demonstrating his passion and dedication to the game, even as his NBA days wound down.
A New Chapter in Coaching
Walker, known for his resilience and adaptability, transitions from player to coach, joining the Charlotte Hornets' staff as a player enhancement coach under new head coach Charles Lee. This new role keeps him connected to the sport he loves and allows him to impart his extensive knowledge and experience to the next generation of players.
Reflecting on the challenging moments of his career, particularly his departure from the Charlotte Bobcats, Walker admitted, "Tough days, f---ing tough days, I can't even lie. Excuse my language. It was difficult. I couldn't see myself just being on another team. It was just hard. That's all I've known was Charlotte. Definitely some tough times. I had a feeling that I wasn't going to get the offer that I wanted, and maybe not close to it, because of cap space."
Gratitude and Future Prospects
Expressing deep appreciation for his support system, Walker acknowledged the crucial role of his family, teammates, and coaches in his successful career. "I know I couldn't have made it to this point without my incredible support system around me. There are so many people to thank -- my mom, dad and entire family, my teammates who have become family, and the coaches who believe in me and brought out the best in me."
As Walker gracefully steps away from playing, he reassures fans that his departure from the court does not mean a final goodbye to basketball. "Basketball will forever be a part of my life so this isn't goodbye. I'm excited for what's next."
Kemba Walker’s career may have had its highs and lows, but his contributions, both on and off the court, will leave an indelible mark on the sport. As he embarks on this new chapter, Walker's love for the game ensures that basketball will continue to benefit from his experience and passion for years to come.