Home
Paul Millsap, a four-time All-Star and longtime NBA veteran, has announced his retirement from professional basketball after 16 seasons, on Tuesday. The 39-year-old, who was selected as the 47th pick in the 2006 NBA Draft, concluded his career with the Brooklyn Nets and Philadelphia 76ers during the 2021-22 season.
Throughout his illustrious career, Millsap played for several teams, including the Utah Jazz, Atlanta Hawks, Denver Nuggets, Brooklyn Nets, and Philadelphia 76ers. Known for his versatility and leadership on both ends of the court, Millsap's accomplishments are notable. He is one of only eight players in NBA history to record 500 3-pointers, 1,000 blocks, and 1,000 steals.
A Distinguished Career Across Five NBA TeamsMillsap was particularly effective between 2013 and 2017 with the Atlanta Hawks, where he earned four consecutive All-Star selections. His contributions helped the Hawks make multiple playoff appearances, including a standout 2015 season when they reached the Eastern Conference Finals.
Key Achievements and Impact on the Hawks
During his time with the Hawks, Millsap averaged 17.3 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game. He was instrumental in Atlanta’s success, especially in the 2014-15 season when the team finished with a franchise-record 60 wins and earned the top seed in the Eastern Conference. That season, Millsap was the team's leading scorer and rebounder, playing a key role in their postseason run.
His consistent play during this period earned him All-Star status four times, and he remained a key player for Atlanta’s competitive playoff teams. After his four years with the Hawks, Millsap signed with the Denver Nuggets in 2017, where he continued to play a vital role in their postseason aspirations.
A Leader with the Nuggets and Beyond
Millsap's tenure with the Denver Nuggets was marked by three playoff appearances over four seasons. His leadership helped the Nuggets make their first trip to the Western Conference Finals in 2020. Known for his defensive prowess, versatility, and work ethic, Millsap was an integral part of the Nuggets' rise to playoff contention.
A Solid Career Across the NBA
In total, Millsap played 1,085 regular-season games, averaging 13.4 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 2.2 assists. He also appeared in 130 postseason games, with averages of 12.1 points and 6.8 rebounds per game. While he played for multiple teams, his time with the Hawks from 2013 to 2017 was undeniably his best, with Millsap averaging 17.4 points and 8.3 rebounds per game.
Millsap’s career was marked by consistent performance, leadership, and significant contributions to every team he played for. As a second-round pick, his accomplishments are all the more impressive, as he carved out a successful career in the NBA.
The End of an Era
After his stints with the Nuggets, Millsap briefly joined the Brooklyn Nets for the 2021-22 season before being traded to the 76ers as part of the James Harden-Ben Simmons deal. He completed his final NBA season with the 76ers, marking the end of his remarkable career.
Millsap's retirement brings an end to a career that saw him become a four-time All-Star, a key player on competitive playoff teams, and a leader for his various franchises. Despite being drafted in the second round, Millsap became one of the league’s most consistent and respected players, solidifying his place in NBA history.
