Veteran NBA guard Malcolm Brogdon announced his unexpected retirement from professional basketball on Wednesday, just over one month after signing a one-year contract with the New York Knicks. His distinguished nine-season career comes to an end merely one week before the Knicks’ season opener, catching the organization and fans off guard.
A Personal Decision Made on His Own Terms
After contemplating the move during training camp, Brogdon informed Knicks officials on Wednesday of his retirement decision. The former Sixth Man of the Year revealed that his passion and drive for the game had diminished during the preseason. His choice stemmed from the belief that he could no longer meet the physical and mental requirements necessary for success at the professional level.
“Today, I officially begin my transition out of my basketball career,” Brogdon stated in an exclusive statement to ESPN. “I have proudly given my mind, body, and spirit to the game over the last few decades.” The 32-year-old expressed deep gratitude for arriving at this point on his own terms and being able to enjoy the benefits of his career with family and friends.
Historic Career Achievements
Making history as one of only two players in the NBA to win both Rookie of the Year and Sixth Man of the Year awards, Brogdon joined Mike Miller in this exclusive club. With the Milwaukee Bucks in 2016-17, he captured Rookie of the Year honors. In 2022-23, he earned Sixth Man of the Year recognition while playing for the Boston Celtics.
Milwaukee selected him as the 36th overall pick in the 2016 draft despite being a second-round selection. He became the first player drafted outside the first round to win Rookie of the Year since 1966. During his college career at Virginia, Brogdon was named the Atlantic Coast Conference Player of the Year in 2015-16. The school retired his No. 15 jersey in 2017 after he earned consensus first-team All-American honors.
Career Statistics and Earnings
Throughout nine NBA seasons, Brogdon averaged 15.3 points, 4.7 assists, and 4.1 rebounds per game across 463 career contests, including 296 starts. His professional journey took him through five organizations: the Milwaukee Bucks (2016-19), Indiana Pacers (2019-22), Boston Celtics (2022-23), Portland Trail Blazers (2023-24), and Washington Wizards (2024-25).
The veteran guard amassed approximately $133.78 million in career earnings, with the bulk coming from his stint with Indiana where he earned around $62.4 million. His most recent contract with the Knicks was a one-year, non-guaranteed deal worth $2.3 million at the veteran minimum.
Injury Struggles in Final Seasons
Brogdon’s last two seasons were significantly impacted by injuries, limiting his availability and performance. With Portland during the 2023-24 season, he appeared in just 39 games. Last season with Washington, he played a career-low 24 contests, averaging 12.7 points, 4.1 assists, and 3.8 rebounds. The physical toll and effort required to recuperate became overwhelming at this stage of his career.
During his brief preseason with the Knicks, Brogdon struggled to find his rhythm. He was competing for playing time with backup guards Jordan Clarkson, Miles McBride, and Landry Shamet.
Impact on the New York Knicks
The Knicks graciously acknowledged Brogdon’s retirement on social media: “Congrats on your retirement, Malcolm! Best of luck in your next chapter”. He was expected to serve as a backup point guard behind Jalen Brunson under coach Mike Brown. His sudden retirement creates a roster consideration for the organization before the regular season begins.
With Brogdon’s non-guaranteed contract, the Knicks now have flexibility to adjust their roster without incurring a salary cap penalty. The team anticipates having an available roster position following his retirement.
