Chris Paul officially retires after 21 NBA seasons

NBA point-guard icon Chris Paul has announced his retirement from professional basketball, bringing an end to a 21-season NBA career that saw him cement his place among the greatest floor generals in league history.

Paul confirmed his decision Friday in a heartfelt social-media post, stepping away from the game after spanning three decades on the hardwood. 

A 12-time NBA All-Star and nine-time All-Defensive Team selection, Paul – also known as the “Point God” – wrote, “This is it! After over 21 years I’m stepping away from basketball,” reflecting on a career defined by leadership, competitiveness and consistency. 

Drafted fourth overall by the New Orleans Hornets in 2005, Paul quickly emerged as one of the league’s premier guards, earning Rookie of the Year honors and establishing himself as a perennial All-Star early in his career. Over 1,370 games, he averaged 16.8 points, 9.2 assists and 4.4 rebounds per game, ranking second all-time in both assists (12,552) and steals (2,728) behind only John Stockton. 

Paul’s impressive resume includes:

• 12 NBA All-Star selections
• 11 All-NBA team honors
• Nine All-Defensive team honors
• Two Olympic gold medals
• NBA 75th Anniversary Team
• First to reach 20,000 points and 10,000 assists – a milestone since matched only by LeBron James and Russell Westbrook. 

Despite never capturing an NBA title – coming closest with the Phoenix Suns in the 2021 Finals – Paul’s influence spanned far beyond championship hardware, earning admiration for his craft, basketball IQ and leadership. 

Paul’s final campaign was marked by unexpected twists. After signing with the Los Angeles Clippers for his 21st season, his time with the team ended abruptly as the franchise moved on in December amid struggles and reported disagreements. He was subsequently traded to the Toronto Raptors near the deadline but never suited up before being waived – prompting his retirement announcement shortly after. 

In his retirement announcement, Paul touched on the emotional weight of the decision, saying he felt grateful for the journey and excited for what comes next off the court, particularly spending more time with his family. 

Paul exits the game as one of the most influential and respected point guards in NBA history. His ability to control games, elevate teammates and consistently impact winning basketball across multiple franchises – from New Orleans and Los Angeles to Phoenix, Houston, Oklahoma City, Golden State and San Antonio – has left an indelible mark on the league’s modern era. 

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver hailed Paul as “one of the greatest point guards in league history and a true steward of our sport,” praising not only his on-court brilliance but also his leadership, including his tenure as NBA Players Association President. 

As Chris Paul transitions away from playing, conversations already swirl about his imminent Hall of Fame induction – a fitting tribute to a career spent redefining what excellence and longevity look like at the point guard position.