Rodney Hood, the versatile wing who played eight seasons in the NBA, has officially announced his retirement. The 31-year-old departs the game after a career marked by solid contributions and memorable moments across several teams.
A Consistent Contributor
Hood, drafted 23rd overall by the Utah Jazz in 2014, quickly established himself as a reliable scorer. Known for his smooth shooting and ability to create offense, he averaged 10.3 points per game over his career.
After four seasons with the Jazz, Hood had stints with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Portland Trail Blazers, Toronto Raptors, and Milwaukee Bucks, often serving as a key role player. His best statistical season came in 2017-18, when he averaged 16.8 points per game for Utah before being traded to Cleveland.
One of Hood’s most memorable performances came during the 2019 playoffs with Portland, where he hit a clutch game-winning shot in a triple-overtime thriller against the Denver Nuggets. His contributions helped the Blazers reach the Western Conference Finals that year.
Injuries and Challenges
Hood’s career was hampered by injuries, most notably a torn Achilles tendon in 2019 while playing for Portland. Though he returned to the court, he never fully regained his previous form. Despite these setbacks, Hood remained a respected figure in the league for his professionalism and perseverance.
Farewell to the Game
In his retirement announcement, Hood expressed gratitude to his family, teammates, and coaches. “Basketball has given me so much, and I’m thankful for the journey,” he said. “It’s time to focus on the next chapter of my life.”
Legacy
Rodney Hood will be remembered as a steady and skilled player who made his mark in the league. His contributions on and off the court have left a lasting impression, and fans will undoubtedly celebrate his accomplishments as he transitions to life after basketball.
