Kristaps Porzingis Steps Away From Basketball to Focus on Health

Golden State Warriors center Kristaps Porzingis is stepping away from professional basketball after determining that his physical condition prevents him from performing at his usual level. The decision, announced Friday, November 6, 2026, is not an official retirement and leaves his contractual situation with the NBA team unresolved.

Porzingis said he had intended to play this season after signing a two-year, $40 million contract extension with Golden State in late June. However, his body did not respond as expected when he attempted to increase his training intensity ahead of training camp.

The Warriors can still include his $20 million salary in a trade before February's deadline, according to team and league sources cited by ESPN. The organization has no plans to void his contract and continues monitoring potential trade opportunities.

Porzingis expressed his willingness to cooperate with the franchise in determining the next steps. In a social media statement Friday, he emphasized his commitment to finding an acceptable arrangement.

"I want to show the utmost respect for the Golden State Warriors and work with them to find a solution that makes sense," Porzingis wrote.

He also explained that his current physical condition falls short of the standards he expects from himself as a professional basketball player.

"I'm doing good, but I know what it takes, and I'm not where I want to be to perform at the level I expect of myself," Porzingis wrote.

Porzingis' departure followed several discussions with the Warriors. Two days before the team's first practice, he contacted general manager Mike Dunleavy and informed him that he would not report to training camp.

The Warriors initially allowed him to remain away from the team's facilities for two weeks. The organization then arranged a meeting in early October, expecting him to reconnect with the team. However, Porzingis subsequently chose to leave again and eventually decided to step away from the NBA entirely.

According to ESPN, Golden State has not been making payments toward his $20 million salary. Neither Porzingis nor the players' association has challenged that arrangement.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future, Porzingis is open to being traded. His contract could appeal to teams seeking to reduce longer-term financial commitments because only $3 million is guaranteed for next season.

ESPN reported that Porzingis would also be open to a buyout following a potential trade, which could provide additional financial savings for the acquiring team.

The 11-year NBA veteran has experienced recurring health problems since contracting a viral illness while playing for Boston two seasons ago. He has also dealt with multiple leg injuries throughout his career.

Meanwhile, Golden State has started the season with a 6-3 record and is riding a six-game winning streak as the organization evaluates its roster options.