‘I hope I made you proud’

WASHINGTON (7News) — John Wall, the first overall pick in the 2010 NBA draft by the Washington Wizards, is retiring. The Wizards superstar shared a personal message across his social media platforms Tuesday morning, making the announcement.

“I gave this game everything I had,” Wall said. “I hope I made you proud.”

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Wall, an NBA All-Star, played nine seasons with the Wizards before being traded to the Houston Rockets in 2020.

The D.C. team posted a personal congratulations to Wall on their X page: “One of our franchise all-time greats. The definition of an era. A lasting legacy. A forever Wizard. Congratulations on your retirement, John Wall.”

Wizards owner Ted Leonsis said, “John was simply outstanding. In his time on the Wizards, he went from Rising Star in his rookie year to a five-time @NBA All Star. Alongside Bradley Beal, the “dynamic duo” led the team in four playoff runs. Our DC fans adored John for the player he was on the court and the person he is off of it.”

The Raleigh, North Carolina, native declared for the NBA draft after one season with at the University of Kentucky. Wall’s 11-year career spans three franchises, including the Wizards, Rockets and Los Angeles Clippers.