In a poignant announcement on Thursday, Gordon Hayward declared his retirement from professional basketball, capping off a remarkable 14-season career in the NBA. Reflecting on his journey, Hayward stated, "It's been an incredible ride and I'm so grateful to everyone who helped me achieve more than I ever imagined."
A Stellar Beginning
Hayward's professional career kicked off when he was drafted 9th overall by the Utah Jazz in 2010. Prior to joining the NBA, he had led Butler University to the NCAA championship game, making a significant mark on the college basketball scene. His impact on the court was immediate, and he quickly developed into a key player for the Jazz.
All-Star Recognition
During the 2016-17 NBA season, Hayward's stellar performance earned him a selection as an All-Star. That season, he averaged an impressive 21.9 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game, marking the pinnacle of his time with the Jazz. His contributions were instrumental in leading the team to numerous victories, solidifying his reputation as one of the league’s elite players.
Challenge and Recovery
In the summer of 2017, Hayward made a high-profile move to the Boston Celtics as an unrestricted free agent. Anticipation was high for his debut, but disaster struck in the opening game against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Hayward suffered a severe injury, fracturing his tibia and dislocating his ankle, which sidelined him for the entire 2017-18 season.
Despite the setback, Hayward demonstrated remarkable resilience and determination. He made a comeback in the 2018-19 season, gradually regaining his form and contributing to the Celtics' efforts on the court.
New Beginnings in Charlotte
In 2020, Hayward's career took another significant turn when he joined the Charlotte Hornets through a sign-and-trade agreement. In his first season with the Hornets, he proved his worth once more by averaging 19.6 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game. His veteran presence and experience were invaluable to the young Hornets squad.
Final Chapter
Hayward's final NBA chapter began with a mid-season trade to the Oklahoma City Thunder in February. However, his tenure with the Thunder was marked by limited playing time, as he did not feature in the last three games of the team's second-round series against the Dallas Mavericks.
Over the span of his career, Hayward played in 835 games, where he maintained averages of 15.2 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game. These statistics underscore his consistent performance and significant contributions to every team he was part of.
As Gordon Hayward steps away from the professional basketball scene, he leaves behind a legacy defined by perseverance, skill, and sportsmanship. His journey from a promising college player to an NBA All-Star and seasoned veteran is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the game. The basketball community will undoubtedly miss his presence on the court, but his impact on the sport will be remembered for years to come.