Chris Paul Announces Final NBA Season, Reflects on Illustrious Career

Veteran NBA guard Chris Paul, a twelve-time All-Star, confirmed on Saturday that the 2025-26 season will be his final year in professional basketball. Paul, who was in Charlotte with the Los Angeles Clippers to play against the Hornets, shared a heartfelt message on X accompanied by a 75-second video highlighting key moments from his career, beginning with his selection as the fourth overall pick in the 2005 NBA Draft.

"Back in NC!!! What a ride... Still so much left...GRATEFUL for this last one!!" Paul wrote, expressing his gratitude and excitement for his closing chapter.

At 40 years old and in his 21st NBA season, Paul boasts an impressive legacy. He ranks second all-time in NBA history in both assists (12,532) and steals (2,727), trailing only Hall of Famer John Stockton. With 1,364 games played, only 15 players have appeared in more NBA contests.

Paul’s accolades include being named the 2006 Rookie of the Year, earning four All-NBA First Team selections, capturing five NBA assists titles, six steals championships, and being a seven-time First Team All-Defensive member. He also secured the NBA All-Star Game MVP award in 2013 and was honored with a selection to the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team in 2021. Internationally, Paul won Olympic gold medals with Team USA in both 2008 and 2012.

His career has seen him don multiple jerseys: six seasons with New Orleans, a significant stint with the Clippers starting in 2011, followed by periods with Houston (2017-19), Oklahoma City (2019-20), Phoenix (2020-23), and Golden State (2023-24).

Last season, Paul experienced a resurgence with the San Antonio Spurs, playing all 82 games for the first time since 2014-15 and averaging 8.8 points along with 7.4 assists per game. He joined the Clippers again in July but has seen limited playing time this season, appearing in 10 games with averages of 2.5 points and 3.3 assists.

Over his illustrious career, Paul has averaged 16.9 points, 9.2 assists, 4.4 rebounds, and 2.0 steals per contest. Reflecting on his journey, Paul’s announcement marks the conclusion of one of the most distinguished careers in NBA history.