Skip to main content

Could I Have Done It? - Thoughts on AJ Griffin's Recent Decision to Leave Basketball


I’m not sure what I would’ve done. 

Could I have done what AJ Griffin recently decided to do? 

I believe that I could have (maybe?) made that decision to step away from a dream of playing professional basketball at the highest level and earning fame, fortune, and everything else. But really, could I have?! 

I mean, what is a man if he gains the whole world and loses his soul? 

Tricky, tricky, personal conviction!
"I gave up basketball to follow Jesus, and I know that in many people's eyes, it seems like a loss in the world's eyes... I feel like letting go of basketball is allowing me to go into full-time ministry and truly serve the lord with all my heart... I thought that [basketball] was the reason why I was living, but when I came to God, he truly showed me that we're all made to glorify God. We're all made with a purpose, a God-given purpose."
- AJ Griffin - via YouTube
Whether you’re a believer or not in a spiritual higher power, we all believe our morals and faith (whatever it is) would allow us to make such self-ethical decisions. Give up professional basketball and millions? Easssssssssy!

As a believer, this story stayed with me for a week. I really admire AJ Griffin in his calling to the Lord. There’s no doubt in my mind that he wrestled a lot in his decision to ensure it was his calling. I also believe what he has decided to do is authentic and takes a lot of obedience and faith. It's a great test of his walk and faith in the Lord.

In a continuously growing culture that has eroded faith (all kinds, really) from the fabric of its overall beat, and now values high emphasis on self, Griffin’s decision counters so much of what is “normal” in this world. 

Roman’s 12:2 is my favorite verse. It always has been since I was a teenager. 

Griffin is Romans 12:2. And his recent decision is incredibly inspiring and a reminder that it’s not just a reason for your way of life being different, but that it also takes courage - and a great sense of faith - to live it.

Recently Read

Quick Ponder: Parental Reverance

Are these the moments of hard work and sacrifice, in front of my kids, that I hold my parents in reverence for? 

Sunday Sundown Rundown - 1/12/25

3 Up 1. California Fire Fighters - From nearby and even across international borders (some even imprisoned), a lot has to be offered to the firefighters who made their way to Southern California this week to help control this massive natural disaster.  2. Human Spirit - People who opened their homes to others. Businesses that provided free services and assistance. The outpouring of donations and so much more. People can be awesome at times.  3. Medical Debt - This seems like a pretty big deal, no?! Why should your health and the needs for your care affect your credit score?  3 Down 1. California Wildfires - Awful. There's not much you can place into words here that would capture so many people losing their homes, their lives, and everything. 2. Politicized Wildfires - As much as the human spirit took center stage, of course, we gotta make things political in this nation. Because, you know, there's an opportunity to do so.  3. Extreme Weather - There's just a whole l...

Dome Pondering Movie Review: Rio (2011)

What is it about?  Blu, a domesticated macaw bird from Minnesota is off to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in order to save his species by meeting, an independent macaw, Jewel. After meeting, the two embark on an adventure to reconnect with Blu's owner, but end up having an adventure that will change their lives.  Who is in it?  Jesse Eisenberg - Blu Anne Hathaway - Jewel George Lopez - Rafael