CLEVELAND, Ohio — In a surprising turn of events, Cleveland Cavaliers All-Star point guard Darius Garland has announced his resignation from professional basketball, citing a persistent toe injury that has plagued him throughout the 2024–25 NBA season.
Garland, 25, has been a cornerstone of the Cavaliers’ resurgence in recent years, earning multiple All-Star selections and leading the team to consecutive playoff appearances. However, a sprained left big toe sustained late in the regular season proved to be a lingering issue, ultimately leading to his decision to step away from the game.
A Season Marred by Injury
The injury occurred during a late-season matchup, causing Garland to miss several critical games, including the Cavaliers’ first-round playoff series against the Miami Heat. Despite hopes for a swift recovery, the toe injury persisted, limiting his mobility and effectiveness on the court.
In a brief return during Game 3 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the Indiana Pacers, Garland managed to contribute 10 points, but it was evident that he was not at full strength. The Cavaliers secured a 126–104 victory in that game, but the series ultimately highlighted the challenges Garland faced in overcoming his injury.
A History of Resilience
Garland’s career has been marked by both exceptional talent and resilience in the face of adversity. In the 2023–24 season, he suffered a fractured jaw after a collision with Boston Celtics center Kristaps Porziņģis, sidelining him for 19 games. The injury required his jaw to be wired shut, leading to significant weight loss and a challenging recovery process.
Despite these setbacks, Garland returned to form, averaging 21 points and six assists per game in the 2024–25 season, with shooting splits of 48% from the field, 42% from three-point range, and 87% from the free-throw line.
The Decision to Step Away
In a statement released through his agent, Garland expressed the difficulty of his decision:
> “Basketball has been my passion and my life. After consulting with medical professionals and my family, I’ve made the tough decision to step away from the game I love to focus on my health and well-being.”
Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson acknowledged the impact of Garland’s departure:
> “Darius has been an integral part of our team’s success. His leadership and dedication will be greatly missed. We support his decision and wish him the best in his recovery.”
Looking Ahead
Garland’s resignation leaves a significant void in the Cavaliers’ roster. The team will need to explore options to fill the gap left by their star point guard, whether through internal development or external acquisitions.
For Garland, the future remains open. While he steps away from professional play, his passion for basketball and his resilience suggest that he may find new avenues to contribute to the sport, whether in coaching, mentorship, or other roles within the basketball
