Grant Hill Retires From NBA After 19 Seasons

Grant Hill is hanging up his jersey after 19 years in the NBA, announcing his retirement before Game 6 of the Eastern Conference finals between the Miami Heat and Indianapolis Pacers.

The Los Angeles Clippers forward had alluded several times during the year that he intended to retire over the summer.

Grant Hill was able to play in only 29 games this season as he battled several injuries. It was his lowest output since 2006, and Hill’s numbers reflected it. Though he never averaged below 28 minutes and 10 points per game during his career, this season he played only 15.1 minutes per game and averaged 3.2 points.

“I’m glad to say I’m done,” Hill said. “I’m officially retired, moving on from playing. I had a great run. I’m announcing it now. … I’ve been hinting at it the last few years. You get to a point where you just don’t want to do it anymore but I’ve enjoyed it. I’ve loved it.”

Hill signed a two-year, $4 million contract with the Clippers last year, joining a team that looked as if it could make a run at the Western Conference title. Led by Chris Paul and Blake Griffin, the Clippers reeled off a 17-game winning streak during the season, and many expected Hill to provide some veteran leadership.

But Grant Hill only saw action in one playoff game, a 118-105 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies in Game 6 in the first round.

As Grant Hill retired, the Clippers honored him for his service to the team and recognized his place in NBA history.

“The entire Clippers organization wants to congratulate Grant on an incredible career,” Clippers vice president of basketball operations Gary Sacks said. “For 19 years, Grant has always been the embodiment of class, a true professional and not only one of the best players — but one of the finest individuals I have been around. We were fortunate to have Grant with us last season, and we wish him all the best in his next endeavor.”

Grant Hill’s career will be remembered for never quite reaching the potential he had entering the league. After winning two national championships at Duke and an Olympic gold medal in the 1996 Olympics, Hill was expected to become one of the NBA’s best players. For several years he was, earning five All-NBA honors as well as co-rookie of the year in 1994-95.

But Hill was plagued by ankle injuries that would cause him to miss the majority of several seasons.

Grant Hill retires averaging 16.7 points, 6.0 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and 1.2 steals. He also played in a total of 1,026 games in his career.