Former 6-foot-9 Celtics star announces retirement at 34 with new job already confirmed

Former Boston Celtics forward Jared Sullinger has announced his retirement from professional basketball.

The 34-year-old announced the news on X with a heartfelt statement.

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“After a lifetime of giving everything I have to this game, it’s time for me to officially step away from playing basketball,” Sullinger said.

“What a journey it has been. From a kid with a dream in Columbus, Ohio, to wearing an Ohio State jersey, hearing my name called on NBA Draft night, representing the Boston Celtics, and having the honor of putting on jerseys for teams across the world – every city, province, country, community, teammate, coach, fan, and organization became a part of my story.

“I want to thank my family and friends who stood beside me through every high and low.

“Most importantly, thank you to my father, Satch, for laying the foundation and teaching me what this game and life is really about. To my beautiful mother: THANK YOU.”

Sullinger was drafted by the Celtics with the 21st overall pick in the 2012 NBA Draft and played four seasons in Boston.

His NBA tenure was unfortunately marred by a multiple left foot injuries, primarily recurring metatarsal stress fractures.

Unfortunately, the increase in playing time after a strong sophmore season led to issues with his foot which would later need to be addressed surgically.

He would undergo surgery in the 2016-17 season, and after just 11 appearances for the Toronto Raptors, his time in the NBA came to an end.

He would before move overseas to play in China, South Korea and Puerto Rico.

Abroad, Sullinger was named CBA’s International MVP in 2024, and helped the KBL’s Anyang KGC win a championship in 2021.

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Sullinger to return to Ohio State in coaching role

Alongside announcing his retirement from basketball, Sullinger revealed is new job is where it all began, in a development role at Ohio State basketball.

“Basketball has given me more than I could ever repay, but while one chapter ends, another one begins,” Sullinger continued.

“I’m beyond grateful and proud to announce that I’ll be joining The Ohio State University staff — a dream of mine from the moment I knew coaching would be in my future.

“I get to come home, pour into the next generation, represent the Scarlet and Gray again, and give back to the place that gave so much to me.

“I’m hanging up the jersey, but I’m not walking away from the game. I’m just changing seats. Forever a Buckeye. Jared Sullinger.”

Sullinger spent two seasons as a Buckeye, averaging 17.3 points per game shooting at a 52 percent clip, 9.7 rebounds, 1.2 assists and 1.2 steals.

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He was a consensus All-American in both seasons, and a two-time All-Big Ten representative.

Sullinger’s transition ensures his vast experience across the college, NBA, and international ranks won’t go to waste.

The Buckeyes now welcome battle-tested voice in the facility who understands firsthand what it takes to reach the game’s highest levels.