Former Charlotte Hornets forward Taj Gibson announced his retirement on Monday, ending a 17-year NBA career. The veteran big man, who spent the 2024-25 season in Charlotte, will immediately transition to coaching with the Chicago Bulls. Gibson's retirement news comes as the Hornets look to build on their recent form, which includes a 110-96 victory over the New York Knicks on April 12, 2026.
Gibson joined the Charlotte Hornets for the 2024-25 campaign, appearing in 37 games. He averaged 2.9 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 0.5 blocks per game during his single season with the franchise. His role extended far beyond the box score, however.
He served as a key veteran presence in the locker room and on the practice floor. Gibson was specifically credited with aiding the development of young big man Moussa Diabate, who recently won the team's Hustle Award. His mentorship provided invaluable guidance for Charlotte's emerging talent during a season of transition.
He played 1,012 total games across 17 seasons, with averages of 8.3 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 1.0 block per contest. His tenure included eight seasons with the Bulls, where he became a fan favorite for his relentless energy and defensive toughness.
Gibson earned NBA All-Rookie First Team honors for the 2009-10 season. He also finished in the top 10 of the Sixth Man of the Year voting three separate times.
Following his retirement, Gibson has agreed to return to the Chicago Bulls as an assistant coach. He joins the staff of the franchise that drafted him, beginning the next chapter of his basketball life. For the Charlotte Hornets, the focus shifts to the current roster and its development.
The team's recent results show a mixed bag. Their last five games feature a 3-2 record (WLLWW), with the most recent being that 110-96 home win against the Knicks. Prior to that, they fell 118-100 to the Detroit Pistons on April 10 and 113-102 to the Boston Celtics on April 8. They secured victories over the Minnesota Timberwolves (122-108 on April 5) and the Indiana Pacers (129-108 on April 3).
Gibson's departure marks the end of a specific era of veteran influence in Charlotte. The Hornets will now rely on other leaders to guide their young core, including Diabate, as they prepare for future seasons. Fans can track the team's progress and upcoming schedule on our schedule page. His legacy in Charlotte, though brief, was defined by professionalism and a commitment to helping the next generation succeed.
