With his NBA career in the books, Blake Griffin could become the first player to have his jersey retired by the Los Angeles Clippers . Asked about it on the Run It Back podcast, Blake said he would be happy if the organization decides to honor him that way.
"It's obviously a huge honor. I wouldn't turn that down," he said . "But in my mind, I don't know that I do necessarily deserve it. … It's not something that I would say I am expecting. If it happens, that's awesome. It's a huge honor, and I'd greatly appreciate it."
Clipper legend
Although he failed to lead the Clippers to a championship, Blake has a great argument for why the organization should immortalize his number. His impact on the franchise's success and cultural shift weighs more than anyone could imagine, as Ty Lue has argued. Without him, the Clips might still be one of the league's laughingstocks.
Griffin's arrival in 2009 as the top overall pick saw a major rebirth for the franchise. As the main man of their "Lob City" era, Blake put the Clippers on the map and raised them to new heights with his thunderous dunks and highlight reel plays.
Blake enjoyed the peak of his career while wearing a Clips jersey, securing five All-Star selections and four All-NBA honors. In seven and a half seasons with the team, he led L.A. to seven straight postseason appearances.
A special moment in Clippers' history
Retiring Blake's jersey would be special for the Clippers, given that they are one of the two NBA teams that have yet to honor one of their former players that way—the Toronto Raptors are the other.
Griffin's potential jersey retirement ceremony would be held at the Intuit Dome. In addition to being a fitting way to honor one of the organization's legends, it would be a great way to kickstart the new era for the Clippers.
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