It’s been a while since we last saw Will Barton lace up for an NBA game. The 2022-23 season marked his final run, suiting up for the Wizards and Raptors before slipping off the radar. Then came the overseas journey—a quick tour through Spain, China, and Puerto Rico with teams like Covirán Granada and the Guangdong Southern Tigers. But after nearly two years out of the league spotlight, Barton has officially called it a career at 34.
Barton entered the league as the 40th pick in the 2012 NBA Draft and spent over a decade grinding it out with stops in Portland and Denver. In 679 career games, he put up a respectable 11.2 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per night. On top of that, he hit 43.0% from the field and knocked down 35.5% from beyond the arc. No flash, just real consistency.
On Wednesday night, Barton took to Instagram to share the big news. “13 years pro. 11 years in the NBA. Man, where did the time go? Crazy when I was, young I never seen the end in my vision. But here we are. Man, what a time I promise it was everything I dreamed of plus way more,” he wrote. Then came the gratitude: “GOD thank you for taking me on this amazing journey & blessing me with not only a talent but a vision & faith.”
Moreover, he made sure to recognize every step and soul along the way. “Thanks to everyone who helped me at any stage or was apart of this ride at any point. Close or not close, you were needed & I appreciate you. I pray I gave others hope & inspired some,” Barton expressed. “Ups & downs, it was all worth it & this game gave me purpose. I look forward to the next chapter in my life.”
However, Barton expressed he will be fine without hoping and ready for the next step in his life and career. “& I know that because of you basketball I’ll be ok because you taught me to never give up & keep fighting. Thank you to the greatest game ever. Thanks for changing my life forever & giving me something to believe in. I will always love you & remember everything you taught me. Cheers…to the game forever!” he added.
And with one last line that hit just right: “Damn, we really did it huh…still surreal even though we planned it… Thrill you did that shorty no doubt!”
This is a developing story…
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