Former NBA Star Kemba Walker Announces Retirement
In a heartfelt announcement, former lottery pick and four-time All-Star Kemba Walker has decided to hang up his sneakers and retire from professional basketball. Walker, who carved out a successful 12-season career in the NBA, revealed the news on Tuesday, marking the end of a memorable journey on the court.
"I want to start this by thanking God for everything he has given me," Walker said, expressing his deep gratitude for the journey basketball provided him. "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 was the ninth overall pick in the 2012 NBA Draft, starting his professional career with the then-Charlotte Bobcats. Throughout his tenure in Charlotte, he made three All-Star appearances and was named to the All-NBA Second Team, earning the reputation of a dynamic point guard and scoring machine. Walker’s most notable collegiate achievement came when he led the UConn Huskies to the 2011 NCAA title, averaging an impressive 23.5 points per game that season, and hitting a game-winning shot to beat Pittsburgh in the quarterfinals of the 2012 Big East Tournament.
In the summer of 2019, Walker's career took a new turn when he joined the Boston Celtics in a sign-and-trade deal, which sent Terry Rozier to the Hornets. His immediate impact was evident; he earned an All-Star selection in his first season with the Celtics and played a key role in leading the team to the Eastern Conference finals in the NBA bubble. Walker’s time with the Celtics, however, was marred by recurring knee soreness and other health issues, which hampered his contributions on the court.
After leaving the Celtics, Walker played brief stints with the New York Knicks and Dallas Mavericks before concluding his NBA journey in 2023. Despite the frequent changes and challenges, Walker's career averages stand impressively at 19.3 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 5.3 assists over 750 career games.
Walker also spent a season overseas playing for AS Monaco, broadening his basketball experience and showcasing his skills on an international stage.
Reflecting on his departure from the Charlotte Bobcats, Walker recounted the emotional difficulty of leaving the team. "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," he said, revealing the personal and professional challenges he faced during that period.
Walker’s retirement does not mark the end of his involvement in basketball. He will be joining the Charlotte Hornets' staff as a player enhancement coach under the newly appointed head coach Charles Lee. This transition reflects Walker’s desire to remain connected to the game and impart his extensive knowledge and experience to the next generation of players.
"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," Walker shared, expressing his appreciation for those who supported him throughout his career.
Looking ahead, Walker is enthusiastic about his new role and what the future holds. "Basketball will forever be a part of my life so this isn't goodbye. I'm excited for what's next," he concluded, signaling his continued passion for the sport.
Kemba Walker’s career, marked by incredible highs and notable challenges, leaves a lasting legacy on the NBA. As he transitions to coaching, fans and players alike can look forward to his continued contributions to the game he adores.