Blake Griffin retired from the Boston Celtics, concluding a 12-season NBA career marked by power, playmaking, and multiple All-Star selections. The power forward and center last played for Boston during the 2023–24 season before officially retiring from the league. This clarification matters because his final months included a brief, high-profile stint in Phoenix and a trade to Boston after his buyout from Brooklyn. Below is a concise, verified timeline of his final team changes and the official retirement decision.
From Detroit to Boston: Griffin’s Final NBA Chapters
Brooklyn to Phoenix and the Buyout
In February 2023, the Brooklyn Nets traded Griffin to the Phoenix Suns. A few months later, the Suns bought out his contract when they exceeded the luxury tax and sought to clear roster space. After the buyout, Griffin remained unsigned through the 2023 offseason.
Boston Celtics: The Final NBA Team
In September 2023, Griffin agreed to a one-year, veteran-minimum contract with the Boston Celtics. He appeared in 42 games during the 2023–24 season, contributing depth on defense and limited scoring off the bench. The Celtics reached the 2024 Eastern Conference semifinals, where they were eliminated by the Cleveland Cavaliers. Following the season, on August 16, 2024, Griffin announced his retirement from professional basketball.
| Team | Season | Role/Status | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brooklyn Nets | 2022–23 | Active roster, traded midseason | Traded to Phoenix in February 2023 |
| Phoenix Suns | 2022–23 | Active roster, then buyout | Waived after tax apron issues; sat out remainder of season |
| Boston Celtics | 2023–24 | Veteran-minimum contract; retired after season | 42 games; playoffs ended in semifinals |
Retirement Timeline and Official Confirmation
- February 2023: Traded from Brooklyn to Phoenix.
- March 2023: Suns buyout; becomes free agent.
- September 2023: Signs one-year deal with Boston.
- August 16, 2024: Griffin announces retirement from the NBA.
The official NBA record shows Blake Griffin’s last team was the Boston Celtics, where he played the 2023–24 season before retiring. While Phoenix and Brooklyn were part of his final year narrative, Boston represents the final team on his roster before stepping away from professional play.
Career Context and Legacy
Across 12 seasons and 821 regular-season games, Blake Griffin became a seven-time All-Star and one of the most athletic players of his generation. He won Kia Rookie of the Year with the Los Angeles Clippers (2011), made multiple All-NBA teams, and led the league in scoring during 2019–20. His move to Boston provided a veteran presence on a deep Celtics roster, even if his role was reduced late in his career.
Postretirement Status and Future Plans
As of mid-2025, Griffin has not announced any return to playing. He has engaged in media appearances and stated interests in business and entertainment ventures. NBA teams may consider front-office or ambassadorial roles for him given his profile and basketball IQ, though no official postretirement role has been confirmed.
Quick Comparison: Final Team and Key Details
| Team | Season Played | Contract Type | Notable Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boston Celtics | 2023–24 | Veteran minimum | Playoff run; retirement announcement after season |
Frequently Asked Questions
- Did Blake Griffin play his last games with Boston? Yes; he suited up for the Celtics in the 2023–24 season and retired afterward.
- Was Griffin traded or signed by Boston? He signed a one-year, veteran-minimum contract as a free agent after clearing waivers.
- Has he formally retired from all basketball? Yes; he announced his retirement from the NBA on August 16, 2024.
- Could he return to play in the NBA? As of mid-2025, he has not indicated any plans to return to playing.
In summary, Blake Griffin retired from the Boston Celtics, the team for which he played in the 2023–24 season. His path to Boston included a trade from Brooklyn and a buyout from Phoenix, but Boston was the final NBA roster he wore before choosing to end his 12-year career.