NBA Veteran Will Barton Announces Retirement After 11 Years

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Will Barton, a former NBA star and 11-year veteran, announced his retirement on Wednesday.

Dubbed “The Thrill,” the 34-year-old guard shared the news on Instagram, reflecting on his career. “13 years pro. 11 years in the NBA. Man where did the time go?” Barton wrote, noting how he never envisioned the end of his playing days. “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.”

Barton, who was a second-round draft pick in 2012, spent significant time with teams like the Denver Nuggets, and he last played during the 2022-23 season. Over his career, he averaged 11.2 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game, and he finished fourth in the Sixth Man of the Year voting in both 2016 and 2018.

Before his NBA career, Barton showcased his talent at Memphis, where he played under then-head coach Josh Pastner. He spent two seasons with the Tigers, earning Conference USA Player of the Year honors as a sophomore while averaging 18.0 points per game. He concluded his college career with 1,062 points and helped lead Memphis to the NCAA tournament in 2011 and 2012.

Barton is among several former Tigers who have played in the NBA recently, including Jalen Duren and Precious Achiuwa. His retirement marks the end of a memorable journey in professional basketball.