Chris Paul has officially called it a career, closing the book on one of the most respected and enduring runs the NBA has ever seen. After 21 seasons, the 12-time All-Star and two-time Olympic gold medalist is stepping away from the game at age 40, bringing an end to a journey that spanned three decades, countless highlight reels, and a legacy that goes far beyond the box score.
The final chapter came with a bit of drama, fitting for a player who’s been in the middle of so many defining moments. Paul was briefly acquired by the Toronto Raptors in a surprising move, only to be flipped again just hours later.
That whirlwind of trades capped off a season where he suited up for 16 games, averaging 2.9 points and 3.3 assists while shooting 32.1% from the field and 33.3% from deep. Not the numbers we’re used to seeing from CP3, but at this stage of his career, it was clear the end was near.
What wasn’t expected was how quickly it all came together. According to a report from Marc Spears, Paul made the announcement while giving away shoes in Compton-a fittingly humble and heartfelt setting for a player who’s always been about more than just basketball.
Spears also noted that Paul had originally planned to retire after the season, but life had other plans. With a tournament scheduled for his daughter this weekend, it seems family time took priority, and Paul decided it was time.
“This is it! After 21 years I’m stepping away from basketball,” Paul wrote in an Instagram post.
“Mostly I’m filled with so much joy and gratitude! While this chapter of being an ‘NBA player’ is done, the game of basketball will forever be ingrained in the DNA of my life.”
That DNA includes stints with some of the league’s most storied franchises: the Clippers, Suns, Rockets, Warriors, and Spurs. And while he never captured that elusive NBA championship, Paul’s impact on the game is undeniable. He was the engine behind playoff runs, the vocal leader in locker rooms, and the floor general who elevated everyone around him.
His 2021 Finals appearance with the Phoenix Suns was the closest he came to a ring, and though the title slipped through his fingers, it was a reminder of just how much he still had in the tank even in the twilight of his career. Paul’s combination of skill, IQ, and competitiveness made him one of the most feared and respected point guards of his generation.
And let’s not forget the longevity. Over 21 seasons, Paul not only maintained relevance-he adapted.
From the lob city days in L.A. to orchestrating offenses in Phoenix and Golden State, he found ways to contribute, lead, and win. Few players have done it for this long, this well.
Chris Paul’s retirement may not come with a championship banner, but it comes with something just as rare: universal respect. Teammates, opponents, coaches, and fans alike know what he brought to the game. He didn’t just play point guard-he defined it for a generation.
So, while CP3 won’t be suiting up again, don’t be surprised if you see him courtside, coaching youth games, or back in the league in some other role. Because as he said himself, basketball is forever part of his DNA. And the game is better for it.