Malcolm Brogdon, the New York Knicks guard has announced his retirement from professional basketball on Wednesday, marking the end of a nine-year NBA journey. The 32-year-old Malcolm, who most recently played for the Washington Wizards, was expected to join the Knicks’ final roster for the 2025–26 season but instead he decided to step away from the game to focus on life beyond basketball.
Brogdon was capable of immediately turning heads with his poise and court vision that earned him the NBA Rookie of the Year award in 2017 which is a rare feat for a second-round pick. He went on to play for the Indiana Pacers, Boston Celtics, Portland Trail Blazers and Wizards, where he steadily built his reputation as one of the league’s smartest and most dependable players.
A career built on poise, purpose, and quiet excellence
The peak in his career came in the 2022–23 season, when he captured the NBA Sixth Man of the Year award with the Celtics, averaging 14.9 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 3.7 assists. Over his career, he maintained averages of 15.3 points, 4.7 assists, and 4.1 rebounds, numbers that spoke less to flash and more to efficiency and consistency.
After nine NBA seasons, Malcolm Brogdon has decided to retire from basketball. In his statement to ESPN, Brogdon reflected, “Today, I officially begin my transition out of my basketball career. 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.” He thanked fans, teammates, and mentors, adding, “Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, to all who have had a place in my journey.” The New York Knicks also congratulated him on his retirement.
His decision reportedly caught the Knicks off guard, as the franchise had viewed him as a stabilising veteran presence in their evolving backcourt. His leadership and experience were expected to complement the younger roster during the 2025–26 campaign.
But Brogdon’s exit on his own terms, fits the rhythm of his career: understated, thoughtful, and purposeful.
While he hasn’t disclosed what comes next, those close to him suggest he’ll focus on family and community work. For a player nicknamed “The President” for his intellect and calm demeanour, this next chapter may be his most fulfilling one yet.
