Golden State Warriors center Kristaps Porzingis announced Friday that he is stepping away from basketball to focus on his health, after his body did not respond as hoped while he prepared for the season.
"This season I was really looking forward to running it with this group, but as I ramped up, my body didn't respond the way I anticipated," Porzingis wrote in a statement posted to social media. "I'm doing good, but I know what it takes, and I'm not where I want to be to perform at the level that I expect from myself. At this point, I've made the decision to prioritize my health and step away from the game I love."
Porzingis, 31, has not played this season. He has been dealing with symptoms of postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, known as POTS, a nervous system disorder that can affect heart rate and blood flow. He disclosed the diagnosis in 2025, and the symptoms first became an issue late in the 2024-25 season with the Boston Celtics.
The announcement did not describe the decision as a retirement, and Porzingis said he hopes to work with the Warriors to find a solution that makes sense for both sides. He remains under contract with Golden State after signing a two-year, $40 million extension in the summer.
Porzingis was acquired by the Warriors in a February trade with the Atlanta Hawks and appeared in 15 games last season, averaging 16.1 points, 5.3 rebounds and 2.3 assists. He helped the Boston Celtics win the NBA championship in 2024. ESPN reported this week that the Warriors were withholding payments on his $20 million salary for this season because he was not rendering services, and that the team was exploring a trade.
Golden State has started the season 6-3 and is on a six-game winning streak without its starting center.
