By 2024, several top NBA players have decided to hang up their sneakers and retire from the league. This list includes notable names who have had tremendous careers in the NBA and impacted the game in a variety of ways. Here are some of the players who retired in 2024.
1. Gordon Hayward
Hard-working forward Gordon Hayward had an impressive career with teams including the Utah Jazz, Boston Celtics and Charlotte Hornets. After playing for 13 years, Hayward decided to retire at the end of the 2023-2024 season. Known for his shooting, leadership and basketball IQ, Hayward was an All-Star and contributed significantly to each of his teams. He was instrumental in leading the Utah Jazz to multiple playoff runs and provided consistent play wherever he went.
- Career Highlights:
- NBA All-Star (2017)
- Averaged 15.4 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists throughout his career
- Memorable performances with the Jazz and Celtics
2. Otto Porter Jr.
Otto Porter Jr. announced his retirement in 2024 after a decade of service. A highly effective wing player, Porter Jr. excelled on offense and defense, known for his three-point shooting and versatility. His career peaked during his time with the Washington Wizards and later the Golden State Warriors, where he played a key role in their 2022 NBA Championship
- Career Highlights:
- 2022 NBA Champion with the Warriors
- Strong three-point shooter, shooting over 40% from beyond the arc during his career
3. Derrick Rose
Derrick Rose’s retirement in 2024 marked the end of a historic journey. Once the youngest player to ever win an NBA MVP award, Rose’s career was defined by his explosive athleticism, but even during battles with injury he came back plenty, from franchise player who played for the Chicago Bulls to a veteran contributor for teams like the New York Knicks and Detroit Pistons His resilience and work ethic that made the transition made him one of the most beloved figures in the league one of the characters.
- Career Highlights:
- 2011 NBA MVP
- 3-time NBA All-Star
- Inspirational comeback stories after multiple knee injuries
4. Mike Muscala
Mike Muscala retired in 2024 after a solid career as a stretch big man. Known for his ability to shoot from the perimeter, Muscala was a valuable user for several teams like the Atlanta Hawks and Oklahoma City Thunder and his three-point shooting from the power-forward center position could be niche as a bench valuable piece in the NBA.
- Career Highlights:
- Noted for his three-point shooting (35.9% from beyond the arc in his final season)
- Provided depth to multiple playoff teams
5. Joe Harris
Joe Harris, one of the best three-point shooters of his generation, decided to retire in 2024. After a successful career with the Brooklyn Nets, Harris became known for Harris’ ability to throw an incredible shot and won the NBA three-point championship in 2019. Injuries limited playing time in the latter part of his career; But Harris’ contributions as a sharpshooter were pivotal to the Nets’ playoff run.
- Career Highlights:
- 2019 NBA Three-Point Contest Champion
- Shot 40.7% from three-point range in his career
6. D.J. Wilson
D. J.S. Wilson quietly retired in 2024 after a career that saw him play as a roaming big man for teams like the Milwaukee Bucks and Toronto Raptors. Wilson was known for his versatility on both sides of the floor, and contributions often flew under the radar, but he was always a presence on teams in need of frontcourt depth
7. Jontay Porter
Jonte Porter, NBA star Michael Porter Jr. brother has decided to retire in 2024 after a series of injuries cut his career short. Despite being a very good player in college, Porter struggled to stay healthy in the NBA, eventually forcing an early retirement.
- Career Highlights:
- Known for his versatility and basketball IQ
- Struggled with injuries throughout his career
8. Zavier Simpson
Defenseman Xavier Simpson, known for his leadership and playmaking ability, retired after a brief NBA career. His time in the league was mostly spent in backup roles, but his contributions in minutes were invaluable, especially during his time with the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Table: NBA Players Who Retired in 2024
| Player Name | Last Team Played For | Seasons Played | Key Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gordon Hayward | Charlotte Hornets | 13 | NBA All-Star (2017) |
| Otto Porter Jr. | Toronto Raptors | 10 | 2022 NBA Champion |
| Derrick Rose | Memphis Grizzlies | 15 | 2011 NBA MVP, 3x All-Star |
| Mike Muscala | Oklahoma City Thunder | 10 | Known for his three-point shooting |
| Joe Harris | Detroit Pistons | 11 | 2019 NBA Three-Point Contest Champion |
| D.J. Wilson | Philadelphia 76ers | 6 | Versatile big man |
| Jontay Porter | Toronto Raptors | 3 | Highly talented but injury-prone |
| Zavier Simpson | Memphis Grizzlies | 2 | Known for his leadership and playmaking skills |
The Impact of Retirements
These retirements spell the end of seasons for many teams and the league as a whole. Gordon Hayward, Derrick Rose and Joe Harris in particular left a legacy of overcoming adversity, helping run championships and setting standards for shooting and play.
Each of these players has left a distinct footprint in the NBA, from individual awards and championships to comeback stories and leadership roles. As these veterans step away from the game, the league looks forward to a new generation carrying the torch forward.
The 2024 NBA season will be remembered not only for the rising stars but also for the fond farewell of these veterans.
Sam, a dedicated blogger, has immersed himself in the world of content creation for the past five years. His journey reflects a profound passion for storytelling and insightful commentary. Beyond the digital realm, Sam is a devoted NBA enthusiast, seamlessly blending his love for sports with his writing pursuits.