Gordon Hayward Ex Boston Celtics Forward Decides to Step Away from the Game
Hayward, who was drafted by the Utah Jazz out of Butler University in 2010, went on to average over 15 points per game throughout his professional career. In 2017, he signed a lucrative 4-year, $128 million contract with the Celtics, as the team sought to pair him with Kyrie Irving to bolster their roster.
However, Hayward's tenure in Boston was marred by an unfortunate setback, as he suffered a gruesome ankle injury just minutes into his first regular season game with the Celtics. This devastating injury forced him to miss the entire 2017-18 season.
Hayward would go on to play two more seasons with the Celtics before signing a sign-and-trade deal to join the Charlotte Hornets in 2020. Now, after over a decade of competing at the highest level, the veteran forward has decided to hang up his sneakers and call it a career.
This announcement marks the end of an era for Hayward, whose promising start in Boston was derailed by the severe injury he sustained. Nonetheless, his overall contributions to the game and his perseverance in the face of adversity will be remembered by basketball fans across the league.
In a heartfelt statement, 34-year-old Gordon Hayward has officially announced his retirement from professional basketball. "Today, I am officially retiring from the game of Basketball. It's been an incredible ride and I'm so grateful to everyone who helped me achieve more than I ever imagined," he said.
Reflecting on his journey, Hayward expressed his eagerness to embark on the next chapter of his life, stating, "As I move to spend more time with my family as a father and husband, I look forward to new adventures and challenges, taking with me the lessons I've learned on the court that will guide me across my next chapters, both in business and in life."
Hayward's basketball career was marked by a notable college run, as he nearly led his Butler University team to a stunning upset over Duke in the 2010 national championship game. Though his last-second halfcourt shot fell short, the moment cemented Hayward's legacy as a talented and determined player.
Now, as Hayward steps away from the sport, he does so with a heart full of gratitude for the experiences and opportunities that basketball has provided him over the years. His retirement marks the end of an era, but the lessons and memories he takes with him are sure to shape his future endeavors in the years to come.