Chris Paul has made it official: the 2025–26 NBA campaign will be his last.
The 12-time All-Star confirmed the news Saturday through an Instagram reel packed with career highlights, writing, “Back in NC!!!
What a ride… Still so much left… GRATEFUL for this last one!!”
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The announcement comes as Paul and the Clippers visit Charlotte — a fitting backdrop for the North Carolina native and Wake Forest legend.
The decision had been expected since summer, when Paul hinted he had “one year left” and later signed a one-year deal with the Clippers. ESPN’s Shams Charania reported the retirement plan before Paul himself made it public.
Now in his 21st season, Paul closes out a career that has already cemented him as one of the greatest point guards of all time. He’s a member of the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team, an 11-time All-NBA selection, a nine-time All-Defensive honoree, and a five-time assists leader and six-time steals leader. He won Rookie of the Year in 2006 and guided Phoenix to the 2021 NBA Finals at age 35.
Paul’s role has naturally diminished in recent seasons as he’s moved from Phoenix to Golden State, San Antonio, and now back to the Clippers, where he starred from 2011–17 during the Lob City era. This season he has appeared in a limited bench role, averaging 2.5 points and 3.3 assists on 27% shooting in 10 games.
Over more than 1,300 career games, Paul has averaged 16.9 points, 9.2 assists, 4.4 rebounds and 2.0 steals. His 149 playoff appearances include averages of 20.0 points and 8.3 assists.
Paul’s impact extends far beyond numbers — his command of the floor, leadership, and basketball IQ have shaped teammates and influenced a generation of guards.
As former teammate Deandre Ayton put it: “Chris Paul definitely taught me high-level basketball… we went straight to the Finals with him.”
Paul’s farewell tour begins now. His next stop is certain: the Hall of Fame.
