In a heartfelt and unexpected announcement, veteran guard Malcolm Brogdon has officially retired from professional basketball, ending a nine-year NBA career marked by consistency, leadership, and accolades. The 32-year-old made the announcement just one week before the start of the 2025–26 season, during which he was expected to suit up for the New York Knicks.
Brogdon entered the league in 2016 as the 36th overall pick by the Milwaukee Bucks and quickly made history by becoming the first second-round pick to win Rookie of the Year since 1966. Known for his poise, basketball IQ, and off-court activism, Brogdon went on to play for the Bucks, Pacers, Celtics, Wizards, and most recently, the Knicks.
He earned Sixth Man of the Year honors in 2023 with Boston and was widely respected for his ability to contribute in any role; starter, reserve, or locker room leader.
“Today, I officially begin my transition out of my basketball career,” Brogdon said in a statement shared via ESPN’s Shams Charania. “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 to this point on my own terms and now to be able to reap the benefits of my career with my family and friends.”
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
Brogdon had signed a non-guaranteed one-year deal with the Knicks earlier this offseason and participated in four preseason games. Though he was projected to serve as a backup to Jalen Brunson, he reportedly had been contemplating retirement for weeks.
While Brogdon’s playing days are over, his legacy as a thoughtful and impactful figure in the NBA remains strong. A former president of the National Basketball Players Association Foundation and a vocal advocate for social justice, Brogdon is expected to continue his work in philanthropy and public service.
