Rodney Hood’s retirement from the NBA has closed the chapter on a basketball journey that began in Meridian, Mississippi and saw him reach the highest levels of the sport. After making a name for himself at Duke University, where he played a key role under the legendary Coach Mike Krzyzewski during the 2013-2014 season, Hood became a first-round pick in the 2014 NBA Draft, selected 23rd overall by the Utah Jazz.
Hood’s early years in the NBA were marked by promise and solid contributions, particularly during his time with the Jazz, where he developed into a reliable scorer and perimeter shooter. Known for his smooth shooting stroke and offensive versatility, he averaged a career-best 16.8 points per game during the 2017-18 season while playing in Utah. Hood’s career included stints with notable teams such as the Portland Trail Blazers, where he played a key role in several playoff runs, including a memorable Game 6 overtime performance against the Denver Nuggets in the 2019 Western Conference Semifinals.
Unfortunately, injuries played a significant role in derailing Hood’s career trajectory. An Achilles injury in December 2019 significantly impacted his ability to maintain a consistent role in the league. In his final NBA years, he played for the Cleveland Cavaliers, Milwaukee Bucks, Toronto Raptors, and Los Angeles Clippers, often struggling to find stable playing time due to both injuries and team dynamics. After his last NBA appearance with the Clippers in 2022, Hood attempted a comeback by signing with the Memphis Hustle, the G-League affiliate of the Memphis Grizzlies, but he was unable to secure a return to the NBA.
Reflecting on his career, Hood expressed deep gratitude for the experiences and relationships forged through basketball. He highlighted his transformative time at Duke, crediting Coach K for his early leadership role and the chance to play on the biggest stage in college basketball. Hood emphasized how his journey was about more than just basketball, cherishing the cultural and personal growth he experienced along the way.
With his official retirement, Rodney Hood leaves behind a legacy of resilience and perseverance, having navigated the challenges of professional basketball while remaining grateful for every moment on the court.
Rodney Hood had a solid NBA career, and his performance at Duke definitely set the foundation for his professional journey. His shooting skills, particularly from three-point range, made him a valuable asset to the teams he played for. At Duke, his stats highlighted his versatility, being able to contribute not only in scoring but also in rebounds and assists. Hood’s journey from a college star to a dependable NBA player, despite facing challenges later in his career, showcases his dedication and adaptability on the court. His retirement marks the end of a notable chapter, particularly for Duke fans and the teams that benefited from his unique offensive talents.
