There was plenty of intrigue for on-court talent at the G League Showcase this past weekend in Orlando, but one of the more talented players of the past decade drew plenty of interest off the court.
John Wall, the No. 1 pick in the 2010 NBA Draft, made his broadcasting debut at the showcase, providing analysis for a pair of games on Saturday.
While Wall enjoyed his stint with the broadcast, he still holds out hope of returning to the NBA in a playing capacity again. Now 34, Wall holds some frustration that injuries have kept him from leaving the league on his terms and it’s part of why he hasn’t officially retired yet.
“It’d mean the world,” Wall said. “You want to go out on your terms. I want to finish it the way I want. If I play my last game, I want to walk off the court my way.”
NBA Career
Wall last played in 2022-23, averaging 11.4 points and 5.2 assists for the Los Angeles Clippers in what was his 11th NBA season.
Upon first entering the league, Wall dazzled with his electric speed and athleticism. Injuries and natural aging took their toll and impacted his effectiveness the last several years. Moreover, as the league has become more predicated on 3-point shooting, Wall’s struggles from distance have become detrimental to his appeal as a player.
The five-time All-Star hasn’t shot better than 32 percent in each of the last three seasons he’s played, while his free-throw shooting has also significantly dipped. He has shot 71.5 percent at the line in his last three seasons combined after hovering around 80 percent through his peak.
Potential Landing Spots
At this stage of his career, it seems highly unlikely any contender would be willing to take a chance on Wall. Even teams that are in and around the playoff hunt may pass on the opportunity.
If all Wall is looking for is a chance to go out on his terms then perhaps a reunion with the league-worst Washington Wizards is within the realm of possibility. The level of his game on a tanking team won’t be as relevant in a low stakes environment and it may just give fans in Washington just a little something to look forward to.
Wall spent nine seasons with the Wizards, earning all five of his All-Star selections during that time and one All-NBA team selection in 2016-17. He also made one All-Defensive Team in 2014-15.
