Theo Pinson, once a key contributor to the 2017 NCAA Champion UNC Tar Heels, has officially stepped away from professional basketball. The 29-year-old former Dallas Maverick announced his retirement after five seasons in the NBA and a stint in the G League, signaling the end of a journey filled with memorable moments, leadership, and contributions on and off the court.
From NCAA glory to NBA opportunity
Pinson’s basketball story began at the University of North Carolina, where he played a pivotal role in the Tar Heels’ national title win over Gonzaga in 2017. Known for his defensive versatility and high basketball IQ, he became a cornerstone of a championship-winning squad. Despite going undrafted in 2018, Pinson earned a spot with the Brooklyn Nets, carving out a role as a reliable bench player.
NBA highlights: Playoff moments and team contributions
Pinson’s NBA career included stints with the Nets, New York Knicks, and Dallas Mavericks. He was a member of the surprising 2019 Brooklyn Nets team that made the playoffs, led by a core of D’Angelo Russell, Jarrett Allen, Caris LeVert, and Spencer Dinwiddie. Pinson later joined the Mavericks, where he became part of their run to the 2022 Western Conference Finals alongside Luka Dončić.
In his final NBA season (2022-23), Pinson averaged 2.4 points, 1.6 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game while shooting 35.5% from three-point range. Though his on-court stats were modest, his impact extended beyond the box score. Pinson was widely recognized as a vocal leader and energy booster, helping to keep locker rooms united.
A rare triple-double and career milestones
One of Pinson’s standout performances came in April 2023, when he recorded a 20/12/12 triple-double—the first Maverick outside of Luka Dončić to achieve that feat since 1999. Over his 127-game NBA career, Pinson posted averages of 2.7 points, 1.4 rebounds, and 1.1 assists while shooting 32.0% from the field.
Retirement and life after basketball
Pinson confirmed his retirement during a conversation with Dwain Price of Mavs.com. “A possible return to the NBA—or playing overseas—hasn’t even crossed my mind,” Pinson stated, emphasizing his decision to step away from the game for good.
Legacy beyond the stats
While Pinson’s NBA career numbers might not jump off the page, his contributions to the teams he played for are undeniable. He was a vocal leader, a reliable teammate, and an energy player who could galvanize those around him. His journey from NCAA champion to NBA journeyman is a testament to perseverance and the value of intangibles in professional sports.
As Pinson transitions into the next phase of his life, his time in basketball—whether as a champion at UNC, a key playoff contributor, or a locker room leader—will remain an inspiring chapter in the sport’s rich history.
