Washington Wizards CEO Ted Leonsis shared a powerful message for former franchise guard John Wall.
Point guard John Wall has announced his retirement from the NBA after spending 11 seasons on league rosters over his career. Wall was the No. 1 pick in the 2010 NBA Draft by the Washington Wizards and defined the franchise's 2010s as its leader.
While Wall left the Wizards in 2020, he's still beloved by the franchise and the city for his years of service. He led Washington to four playoff appearances while making it to five NBA All-Star teams and one All-NBA Team.
The Wizards are owned by Monumental Sports Entertainment (MSE) under CEO Ted Leonsis. Leonsis shared an emotional and lengthy message for Wall's retirement on social media.
"Fifteen years ago, the Washington Wizards selected John Wall with the first overall pick out of Kentucky. We knew we were getting an elite point guard to join the Wizards ranks… and we ended up with so much more. Ten years of John Wall on the Wizards and a legacy to last a lifetime. John was simply outstanding. In his time on the Wizards, he went from Rising Star in his rookie year to a five-timeNBA 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. We could all feel how much John genuinely loved DC – and The District loved him back. His investment in the community through philanthropy events and youth basketball programs made a difference in the lives of so many… his loyalty, community involvement, and passion went above and beyond what was expected, and we all loved him for it.
"As the news breaks of John's retirement from the game, I know all of us in DC are sending him our well wishes and are excited to see what's coming next. Thanks for everything, John. On behalf of all of us at the Washington Wizards and MSE, congratulations on your retirement."
Fifteen years ago, the @WashWizards selected @JohnWall with the first overall pick out of Kentucky. We knew we were getting an elite point guard to join the Wizards ranks… and we ended up with so much more. Ten years of John Wall on the Wizards and a legacy to last a lifetime.… pic.twitter.com/umrQTeVEmm
— Ted Leonsis (@TedLeonsis) August 19, 2025
John Wall Made $272.2 Million from Contracts Signed with Washington Wizards
Wall's value to the Wizards franchise was always on display whenever it came time for a new contract. After signing a four-year, $22.9 million contract as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2010 NBA Draft, Wall's early success in the NBA prompted a $65.6 million extension over four years.
The Wizards would then hand Wall one of the first supermax contracts in NBA history, signing him to a four-year, $170 million contract in the summer of 2017. Unfortunately, he ruptured his left Achilles tendon in January 2019 and would never be the same again.
Wall was traded to the Houston Rockets in December 2020, with the franchise taking on the final two years of his contract. This, coupled with the $4.2 million contract he signed with the Los Angeles Clippers in 2022, means Wall's total career earnings come to $276.4 million, with all but $4.2 million coming to him as a result of contracts he signed with the Wizards.
He averaged 19.0 points, 9.2 assists and 4.3 rebounds in 573 games over his Wizards tenure.
John Wall Shared His Retirement Comments on Social Media
Wall shared a video across his social media platforms after news of his retirement came out, sending a strong message to his fans and well-wishers after this decision at 34 years old.
“I’ve been chasing the ball since I could barely walk. Driveways, parks, packed gyms, 5 AM workouts – I gave this game everything I had.
“Every jersey I’ve worn meant more than just wins or stats. It was about representing something bigger. It was something I couldn’t do without you. To my family, especially my mom – Thank you for all your sacrifices. I hope I made you proud. To my teammates, trainers, and coaches – thank you for believing in me. To the fans – you made me feel unstoppable.
“Today. I’m stepping off the court, but not away from the game. Basketball will always be a part of my life… Thank you for every cheer and every moment. Retired, but never done. I’m doing it the Wall Way.”
Wall averaged 18.7 points, 8.9 assists and 4.2 rebounds in 647 regular-season games over his career. He represented the Washington Wizards, Houston Rockets and L.A. Clippers over 11 seasons in the NBA.
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This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Aug 19, 2025, where it first appeared in the NBA section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Category: Basketball
