Malcolm Brogdon, a versatile guard celebrated for his efficiency and unique achievement as a second-round pick to win Rookie of the Year, has announced his retirement from the NBA after nine seasons, opting to step away just weeks after signing with the New York Knicks.
In a move that caught many by surprise just a week before the NBA season was set to tip off, veteran guard Malcolm Brogdon officially announced his retirement from professional basketball on a recent Wednesday. The 32-year-old’s decision comes just over a month after he inked a one-year, $3.3 million deal with the New York Knicks, where he was considered a strong candidate to earn a roster spot as a backup point guard to franchise star Jalen Brunson.
Brogdon’s statement, initially shared via ESPN’s Shams Charania, underscored a desire to conclude his career on his own terms. “I am deeply grateful to have arrived to this point on my own terms and now to be able to reap the benefits of my career with my family and friends,” Brogdon stated. He added, “Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, to all who have had a place in my journey.” This sentiment highlights a player prioritizing long-term well-being and personal fulfillment over continued play, especially after years of battling injuries.
A Career of Unprecedented Achievements for a Second-Round Pick
Malcolm Brogdon’s NBA journey was far from typical, marked by significant accolades that defied his draft position. After a standout collegiate career at Virginia from 2011 to 2016, where he earned consensus first-team All-American honors as a senior and was named the Atlantic Coast Conference Player of the Year in 2015-16, he was selected 36th overall by the Milwaukee Bucks in the 2016 NBA Draft.
His impact was immediate. In the 2016-17 season, Brogdon captured the NBA Rookie of the Year award, averaging 10.2 points, 4.2 assists, and 2.8 rebounds with impressive shooting splits of 45.7/40.4/86.5. This achievement placed him in an exclusive club, as he remains one of only three second-round picks in NBA history to win Rookie of the Year, joining legends Terry Dischinger (1963) and Willis Reed (1965). His alma mater, Virginia, further honored his legacy by retiring his No. 15 jersey in 2017.
From Celtics’ Sixth Man Sensation to Injury Challenges
Brogdon’s versatility and efficiency continued to shine throughout his career with various franchises. After three seasons with the Bucks and another three with the Indiana Pacers, he was traded to the Boston Celtics ahead of the 2022-23 season. In his lone season in Boston, Brogdon excelled in a reserve role, earning the prestigious Sixth Man of the Year award. He played a crucial part in the Celtics’ success, helping them finish just one game behind the Bucks at the top of the Eastern Conference.
However, the latter part of his career was increasingly hampered by injuries. Over the last two seasons, split between the Portland Trail Blazers and the Washington Wizards, Brogdon missed substantial time. He played in 39 games with the Trail Blazers in 2023-24 and a career-low 24 contests with the Wizards during the same season. His performance with Washington saw averages of 12.7 points, 4.1 assists, and 3.8 rebounds. Notably, his shooting percentage plummeted to a career-worst 29% during this period, indicating the struggles he faced on the court due to his physical condition.
These persistent physical tolls are believed to have played a significant role in his decision to step away. While his official statement focused on gratitude and control over his exit, the cumulative effect of injuries undoubtedly contributed to his contemplation of retirement for weeks leading up to the announcement.
A Consistent and Versatile Contributor’s Legacy
Brogdon concludes his nine-season NBA career with robust averages of 15.3 points, 4.7 assists, and 4.1 rebounds over 463 games, of which he started 296. His career reflects a player who consistently brought efficiency, intelligence, and two-way play to every team he joined. His ability to impact the game as both a starter and a key reserve highlights his adaptability and value.
His impressive career accolades include:
- 2017 NBA Rookie of the Year
- 2023 NBA Sixth Man of the Year
- One of only three second-round picks to win Rookie of the Year
- A consistent three-point shooter, often above 40%
- An over 79% career free-throw shooter
The Knicks’ Roster Adjustment
Brogdon’s retirement presents an unexpected challenge for the New York Knicks. Having just signed him to bolster their backcourt depth, especially behind Jalen Brunson, the team now faces an immediate need to re-evaluate their roster construction. The Knicks had high hopes for Brogdon’s veteran presence and playoff experience, which would have been invaluable for a team aiming to contend in the Eastern Conference. The Knicks themselves acknowledged his career, posting a message on X (formerly Twitter) stating, “Congrats on your retirement, Malcolm! Best of luck in your next chapter.”
For fan communities, this development immediately sparks discussions about potential free agent acquisitions or internal promotions to fill the void left by Brogdon. The team will need to adjust its strategy as it heads into the new season, with the loss of a proven, efficient guard impacting their depth chart. His departure reinforces the unpredictable nature of sports, where a player’s long-term health and personal decisions can swiftly alter a team’s outlook.
Malcolm Brogdon’s career, defined by overcoming draft odds, earning major awards, and battling through adversity, provides a powerful narrative of determination and ultimately, self-awareness. His decision to retire “on his own terms” ensures that he steps away from the game with his health and future firmly in mind, leaving behind a respected legacy as one of the league’s most efficient and decorated guards.
