After over 20 years of elite playmaking, fierce competitiveness, and strong leadership, Chris Paul has officially announced that the 2025–26 NBA season will be his last.
Speaking with veteran journalist Jemele Hill at the American Black Film Festival, Paul confirmed what many had long expected. The “Point God” is ready to take his final bow in what will be his 21st and final NBA season.
“At most? I’ve got one more year in me,” Paul said. “I just want to enjoy this last ride, stay close to my family, and walk away on my terms.”
A Farewell Tour Worth Watching
The announcement rippled through the world of basketball, from the locker rooms to the living rooms. Chris Paul isn’t merely an NBA legend; he’s one of the most revered and longest-lasting players in his class. As the league gets ready to bid farewell to one of the all-time greats floor generals. Fans and fellow competitors alike already start to bask in his amazing legacy.
This upcoming season will serve as a farewell tour for Chris Paul, with each NBA city expected to honor the veteran who helped redefine the modern point guard role. While it’s still uncertain which team he’ll finish his career with, Paul has expressed. A desire to stay close to his family in Los Angeles — suggesting a possible move to either the Lakers or a return to the Clippers.
Humble Beginnings in North Carolina
Chris Paul’s path to greatness began in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, where he initially gained notice as a high school phenom at West Forsyth High School. A McDonald’s All-American and Mr. Basketball of North Carolina, Paul’s high school career was the stuff of legend, highlighted by a still-remembered 61-point game against Carver High School in honor of his late grandfather, who was killed by two men just a few days before his 61st birthday.
Paul had exactly 61 points, then deliberately missed a free throw to make certain that he would not reach that symbolic mark. That evening solidified Paul’s reputation as a player of deep emotional complexity and maturity — qualities that would typify his career.
Rise to NBA Stardom
Paul joined the NBA in 2005 as the 4th overall selection by the New Orleans Hornets and quickly made a name for himself, winning Rookie of the Year. His blindingly quick court vision, precision ball-handling, and natural leadership soon established him as one of the top point guards in the league.
Paul would wear the jerseys of various NBA teams over the years — the Los Angeles Clippers, Houston Rockets, Phoenix Suns, Oklahoma City Thunder, and most recently, the Golden State Warriors. Everywhere he went, he made his presence felt on the floor and in the locker room.
He has an impressive list of achievements:
- 12-time NBA All-Star
- 11 All-NBA Team selections
- 9-time All-Defensive Team honoree
- Led the league in assists 5 times
- Top 5 in career win shares for point guards
Stats That Speak Volumes
Even among the greatest, Chris Paul’s stats are in a league of their own. He ranks:
- 2nd all-time in assists (12,499)
- 2nd all-time in steals (2,717)
- Behind only John Stockton in both categories.
His inclusion in the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team in 2022 further validated his status as one of the best ever to play the game.
Remarkably, in his 20th season, Paul became the first player in league history to start all 82 regular-season games — a testament to his durability, discipline, and sheer will to compete.
A Mentor, Leader, and Teammate
Paul’s impact extends far beyond numbers. He’s universally considered one of the most intelligent players ever to take the court. His basketball IQ is the stuff of myth — capable of breaking down defenses in the moment, controlling tempo, and lifting his teammates.
He has guided many young stars, among them Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who attributed Paul’s leadership during their Oklahoma City days as a major contributor to his becoming an All-NBA player.
Chris Paul was also the NBA Players Association President from 2013 to 2021 and played an integral part in negotiations that resulted in better financial and safety conditions for players, as well as during the NBA Bubble in 2020.
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Legacy Beyond the Hardwood
Paul’s legacy goes far beyond the basketball court. He’s a devoted father, husband, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. With the Chris Paul Family Foundation, he’s aided education, social justice efforts, and youth leadership programs nationwide.
As he told the Hill in their interview:
“For the last six years, I’ve spent the season away from my family. My children are growing up. I want to be home. I want to be a dad.”
A Last Dance with Purpose
The 2025–26 season won’t be just another NBA year — it will mark the culmination of a career defined by greatness, integrity, and relentless effort. Across the league, every arena will pay tribute to Chris Paul as fans witness the final chapter of one of the most remarkable journeys in NBA history.
Whatever team he plays for next, or if he returns to Los Angeles, one fact remains:
Chris Paul’s retirement tour will be appointment viewing.
From Winston-Salem to NBA arenas around the world, Chris Paul has touched the lives of millions. With his last season looming, the league will bid adieu to a giant of the sport — the Point God himself.