Former lottery pick and four-time All-Star Kemba Walker has announced his retirement from professional basketball, thereby closing a memorable chapter in the NBA. Walker, who spent 12 seasons in the league, made his decision public on Tuesday.
"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 said in his heartfelt announcement.
Walker’s NBA Journey
Drafted ninth overall by the then-Charlotte Bobcats in the 2012 NBA Draft, Walker quickly became the face of the franchise. His career took off with the Bobcats, later rebranded as the Charlotte Hornets, where he dazzled fans and earned three All-Star appearances. Walker was also named to the All-NBA Second Team during his productive stint in Charlotte.
Walker’s college roots tie back to leading the UConn Huskies to the 2011 NCAA title, a season where he posted an impressive average of 23.5 points per game. His memorable game-winning shot against Pittsburgh in the quarterfinals of the 2012 Big East Tournament remains etched in NCAA lore.
Despite his success, Walker faced significant challenges. Reflecting on his departure from Charlotte, he expressed the difficulty of the situation: "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."
New Chapters with the Celtics, Knicks, and Mavericks
In the summer of 2019, Walker joined the Boston Celtics in a sign-and-trade deal that saw Terry Rozier move to the Hornets. His first season in Boston was marked by another All-Star selection and a run to the Eastern Conference finals in the NBA bubble. However, recurring knee soreness and other health issues plagued Walker's time with the Celtics, hindering his performance and playing time.
Walker had brief stints with the New York Knicks and Dallas Mavericks before concluding his NBA career in 2023. His career averages stand at an impressive 19.3 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 5.3 assists over 750 career games.
International Play and Transition to Coaching
In the twilight of his career, Walker ventured overseas, spending a season playing for AS Monaco. Now, as he steps away from playing, Walker is not leaving the game entirely. He will be joining the Charlotte Hornets' staff as a player enhancement coach under the new head coach Charles Lee.
"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 acknowledged.
Looking Forward
While his career on the court may have concluded, Walker's passion for basketball endures. "Basketball will forever be a part of my life so this isn't goodbye. I'm excited for what's next," he shared, leaving fans and peers optimistic about his future contributions to the sport.
Kemba Walker's journey through professional basketball is marked by significant achievements, resilience, and an enduring love for the game. His transition to coaching will undoubtedly help nurture the next generation of players, carrying forward the legacy of a career that has inspired many.