In a heartfelt announcement on Tuesday, former lottery pick and four-time All-Star Kemba Walker revealed his retirement from professional basketball, ending a remarkable 12-season career in the NBA. Walker, whose journey took him through four different franchises, will be moving into a coaching role, enriching the next generation of players with the wealth of knowledge and experience he amassed on the court.
"I want to start this by thanking God for everything he has given me," Walker expressed in a statement. "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."
A Stellar Career
Selected as the ninth overall pick by the then-Charlotte Bobcats in the 2012 NBA Draft, Walker quickly became a cornerstone for the franchise. Over his first seasons with the team, renamed the Charlotte Hornets, Walker amassed three All-Star appearances and cemented his reputation as a dynamic scorer and playmaker. Highlighting his tenure in Charlotte was a selection to the All-NBA Second Team, recognizing his elite performance among the league's best.
Before stepping onto the NBA stage, Walker led the UConn Huskies to the 2011 NCAA title, averaging a stellar 23.5 points per game that season. His unforgettable game-winning shot to beat Pittsburgh in the quarterfinals of the 2012 Big East Tournament remains an iconic moment in college basketball history.
Transition to Boston and Health Struggles
Walker's departure from Charlotte in the summer of 2019 marked a significant shift in his career. Joining the Boston Celtics in a sign-and-trade deal that sent Terry Rozier to the Hornets, Walker continued to showcase his talent, earning an All-Star selection in his first season with the Celtics. His leadership was instrumental in guiding Boston to the Eastern Conference finals during the NBA bubble season.
However, Walker's time with the Celtics was marred by recurring knee soreness and other health issues, which began to take a toll on his ability to consistently perform at his peak. Reflecting on his departure from Charlotte, Walker candidly shared, "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."
Final NBA Stops and Career Averages
Following his stint with the Celtics, Walker had brief periods with the New York Knicks and Dallas Mavericks before concluding his NBA journey in 2023. Over the course of his 750 career games, Walker averaged an impressive 19.3 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game. These numbers highlight a career filled with offensive prowess and versatility, traits that made Walker a beloved figure among fans and teammates alike.
Overseas Play and Transition to Coaching
Walker also spent a season overseas, playing for AS Monaco, before making the final call on his illustrious playing career. Yet, his journey with basketball is far from over. Walker will be rejoining the Charlotte Hornets, but this time as a player enhancement coach under new head coach Charles Lee. This transition marks a new chapter where Walker will share his invaluable insights and experience to nurture and develop upcoming talent.
Gratitude and Future Endeavors
Expressing his gratitude, 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 believe in me and brought out the best in me." His gratitude extends to everyone who supported him throughout his career, highlighting the significant role his close-knit community played in his journey.
While Walker's days of electrifying fans with his on-court performances have come to an end, his passion for basketball remains unwavering. "Basketball will forever be a part of my life so this isn't goodbye. I'm excited for what's next," he assured fans and followers, signaling that his contributions to the sport will continue in new and impactful ways.
Kemba Walker's retirement marks the end of an era for a player who gave his all on the court, consistently showcasing his talent, dedication, and love for the game. As he transitions into coaching, his legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations to pursue their dreams with the same fervor and resilience he demonstrated throughout his distinguished career.