​I believe that for a few years I’ll step back and keep a lower profile, because I want to carve out space to do my own thing. We play every other day, and there’s hardly any time left for ourselves. I’m craving the chance to be present at my kids’ tournaments, to watch their school plays, and to immerse myself more deeply in their lives. I want to be there for the moments that matter outside of basketball, to share in their milestones and everyday events, and to be a stronger, more involved father during this period.
This isn’t about stepping away from the game forever; it’s about prioritizing family in the near term and re-centering my life so I can contribute in the ways that matter most to them. I want to support my kids as they grow, attend their activities, and be a steady presence during their formative years. The grind of an NBA schedule leaves little room for a normal family routine, and I’m ready to recalibrate—spend mornings at their bedsides, watch school performances, and cheer them on at their games.
I recognize the value of my role on the court, but I also recognize the importance of my role at home. Balancing elite competition with a fulfilled family life will require time, patience, and careful planning. I anticipate a period where I’ll scale back just enough to create the space necessary for those moments that can’t be replicated later. The goal isn’t to disappear from the game entirely, but to step back temporarily so I can step forward later with renewed focus and energy, carrying with me the experiences and lessons from those intimate, everyday moments with my children.
In this time away from the spotlight, I’m committed to being more accessible for them—attending their school events, traveling to their tournaments, and simply being a constant in their daily lives. I want to be involved in their interests, listen to their stories, celebrate their successes, and offer guidance when they need it. It’s about building a foundation of memories, trust, and presence that will endure long after the basketball season ends.
I know what I’m asking isn’t easy, and I’m not taking this lightly. The decision to pause the relentless rhythm of the NBA will require discipline, sacrifice, and clear communication with my team, my family, and my supporters. But I truly believe this is the right move for our family at this stage. I’m excited about the possibility of returning to the game with a sharpened focus and a deeper sense of purpose, enriched by the time I’ve spent supporting my kids and being an active part of their lives. That time away will be a catalyst for personal growth, as a father, a teammate, and a person, and I’m ready to embrace it.