Malcolm Brogdon announces retirement after nine-year NBA career, weeks after signing with Knicks

Veteran guard Malcolm Brogdon has officially announced his retirement from professional basketball, bringing an end to a nine-year career in the NBA that included two major individual honors and stints with five franchises.

The 32-year-old made his announcement in the early hours of Thursday, October 16 (Philippine Standard Time), releasing a heartfelt statement through NBA insider Shams Charania of ESPN.

“Today, I officially begin my transition out of my basketball career,” Brogdon wrote. “I have proudly given my mind, body, and spirit to the game over the last few decades. With the many sacrifices it took to get here, I have received many rewards. I am deeply grateful to have arrived at this point on my own terms and now to be able to reap the benefits of my career with my family and friends. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, to all who have had a place in my journey.”

OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

The decision comes as a surprise to many, especially considering Brogdon had signed a one-year deal with the New York Knicks this offseason and appeared in four preseason games. Reports suggested he was competing for the final roster spot.

Malcolm Brogdon was set to make the Knicks’ regular season roster, but had been contemplating retirement and informed Knicks officials on Wednesday of his decision. Full statement from Brogdon on his sudden retirement: https://t.co/Z8IdTGBznj pic.twitter.com/WX2Gfc7bHv

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) October 15, 2025

Drafted 36th overall by the Milwaukee Bucks in the 2016 NBA Draft, Brogdon made an immediate impression, becoming the first second-round pick since 1965 to win the NBA Rookie of the Year award. In his third season, he etched his name in the history books by becoming just the eighth player in league history to post a 50-40-90 shooting season, averaging 50.5% from the field, 42.6% from three, and a league-best 92.8% from the free-throw line.

After three seasons in Milwaukee, Brogdon joined the Indiana Pacers, where he transitioned into a larger role as a starter. He later moved to the Boston Celtics, where he made a significant impact off the bench during the 2022–23 season, averaging 14.9 points per game and shooting a career-high 44.4% from beyond the arc, ultimately earning the NBA Sixth Man of the Year honor.

Brogdon also had brief stints with the Portland Trail Blazers and Washington Wizards, and had been eyeing a return to the court with the Knicks prior to his unexpected retirement.

Over 435 regular-season games, Brogdon averaged 15.3 points, 4.7 assists, and 4.1 rebounds in 29.1 minutes per game, consistently contributing on both ends of the floor. Known for his high basketball IQ, steady leadership, and efficient play, he retires as one of the most respected professionals of his draft class.

Though his career ends earlier than anticipated, Brogdon walks away from the game on his own terms, with accolades that few second-round picks have matched. His legacy will endure as a testament to perseverance, professionalism, and impactful play—both as a starter and in a sixth-man role.

👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and join the community of passionate basketball fans.