Former All-Star Kemba Walker Announces Retirement
In a heartfelt announcement on Tuesday, former lottery pick and four-time All-Star Kemba Walker declared his retirement from professional basketball, closing the chapter on a remarkable 12-season NBA career.
Walker, who electrified fans from the very start of his stint in the NBA as the ninth overall pick in the 2012 Draft, brought an indomitable spirit and boundless energy to the court. Selected by the then-Charlotte Bobcats, Walker quickly made his mark, capturing the hearts of fans and earning three All-Star appearances with the franchise.
Reflecting on his career, Walker shared, "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. 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."
Walker’s proficiency wasn’t confined just to his professional career. Before his NBA days, he was instrumental in leading the UConn Huskies to the 2011 NCAA title, averaging 23.5 points per game that season. His game-winning shot to beat Pittsburgh in the quarterfinals of the 2012 Big East Tournament remains one of the indelible moments of college basketball lore.
After his tenure with the Bobcats (eventually renamed the Hornets), Walker joined the Boston Celtics in a sign-and-trade deal that sent Terry Rozier to the Hornets. In his first season with the Celtics, Walker continued to shine, earning another All-Star selection and pushing the team to the Eastern Conference Finals in the restricted environment of the NBA bubble.
However, Walker’s journey wasn't devoid of challenges. Recurring knee soreness and a series of other health issues began to take a toll during his stint with the Celtics. His later years saw him playing briefly for the New York Knicks and Dallas Mavericks before concluding his NBA journey in 2023.
"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," Walker candidly admitted. "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."
In the twilight of his career, Walker took his talents overseas, spending a season in the French league playing for AS Monaco. Despite the varied locales, his commitment to the game remained unwavering.
Walker’s career statistics underscore his impact on the court: averaging 19.3 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 5.3 assists over 750 career games. These numbers speak volumes about his sustained excellence and adaptability over the years.
As he transitions from playing to a new role in basketball, Walker is not straying far from the sport he loves. He will be joining the Charlotte Hornets' staff as a player enhancement coach under the tutelage of new head coach Charles Lee. This move signifies a return to familiar grounds and a new beginning in a supportive capacity for Walker.
Acknowledging those who stood by him through the highs and lows, Walker said, "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 believed in me and brought out the best in me."
Walker’s retirement marks the end of a vibrant and memorable NBA career, but his connection to basketball remains strong. "Basketball will forever be a part of my life so this isn't goodbye. I'm excited for what's next," Walker reassured his fans and followers.
As the NBA community bids farewell to one of its dynamic guards, there’s a collective appreciation for the energy, passion, and skill that Walker brought to the game. His journey from a promising draft pick to an accomplished All-Star and leader has been nothing short of inspiring.