RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) — John Wall’s basketball legacy runs deep in the Triangle. Before he became one of the fastest, most electrifying point guards in the NBA, he got his start right here in the Capital City.
On Tuesday, the 34-year-old Wall announced his retirement from the game, vowing to be “retired, but never done,” and to do it the “Wall Way.”
That kind of instilled in me to have that gritty, dog mentality. Don’t back down from anybody. I wouldn’t change my exposure of where I’m from for nothing in the world.
– John Wall, on growing up in Raleigh
On Thursday, Wall chatted with ABC11 on what closing this chapter means. “Bittersweet,” said the five-time All-Star. “That I’m leaving the game I gave so much to and dedicated my whole life to. But there’s always a lot more life outside of basketball.”
John Wall in action for the Washington Wizards against the Brooklyn Nets on Dec. 1, 2018.
Nick Wass
Wall played most of his career with the Washington Wizards after they drafted him out of Kentucky. He explained how his upbringing in Raleigh made him into the competitor we saw turn into the NBA’s top overall pick in 2010.
“That kind of instilled in me to have that gritty, dog mentality. Don’t back down from anybody. I wouldn’t change my exposure of where I’m from for nothing in the world. The south side of Raleigh, North Carolina, made me the (basketball) player that I am today.”
Washington Wizards first draft pick John Wall holds up the No. 1 jersey with coach Flip Saunders, right, and team President Ernie Grunfeld on June 25, 2010.
Alex Brandon
Just two weekends ago, the John Wall Family Foundation completed its annual reunion and backpack giveaway. Wall went on to explain why he’s always been so visible in his community.
“This is what my mom instilled in me,” he said. “I like to give my time and presence and give all these kids hope that no matter what you want to be in life, you’ve got an opportunity to do it,” he said.
Wall’s mother, Francis Pulley, died in 2019, and he credits her with many things, including the spirit of giving back.
Flanked by Word of God Christian Academy’s Dr. Frank Summerfield and Wall’s sister Tonya Pulley, John Wall discusses his decision to play at Kentucky on May 20, 2009.
Gerry Broome
“Even though she’s not here, she’s always here watching down on us. She loved giving back to the community. She always gave her time, even when I was in the league, she was still working AAU tournaments, doing concession stands, or even giving out the tickets.”
As for what’s next, Wall, who was also the 2014 Slam Dunk champion, said he’s joining Amazon Prime as an analyst in its inaugural season covering the NBA.
“I had an opportunity to do the G-League showcase, then NBA TV gave me a couple of games this past year, and I just fell in love with it,” he said.
Wall finished his NBA career averaging 18.7 points and 8.9 assists per game in 11 seasons. He and the NBA on Prime Video are set to begin their coverage this fall.
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