NBA Icon Chris Paul Concludes Storied 21-Season Career
Chris Paul, widely revered as one of the most exceptional point guards in the history of the National Basketball Association (NBA), has officially announced his retirement from professional basketball. The announcement came on Saturday, February 14, 2026, following his waiver by the Toronto Raptors, marking the end of a remarkable 21-season journey that solidified his status as a legendary figure in the sport.
A Journey Through Multiple Franchises
Paul, affectionately known by nicknames such as 'Point God' and 'CP3', entered the league as the fourth overall pick in the 2005 Rookie Draft, selected by the New Orleans Hornets. He remained with the Hornets franchise until 2011, showcasing his early prowess. Over the years, his career spanned several teams, including the Houston Rockets, Oklahoma City Thunder, Phoenix Suns, Golden State Warriors, San Antonio Spurs, and Los Angeles Clippers, the latter of which traded him to the Raptors. This diverse experience across multiple franchises highlights his adaptability and enduring impact on the game.
Accolades and Statistical Dominance
At 40 years old, Paul's retirement caps off a career decorated with numerous accolades. He is a 12-time All-Star, an 11-time member of All-NBA teams, a nine-time All-Defensive teams member, Rookie of the Year, two-time Olympic gold medalist, and a distinguished member of the NBA's 75th Anniversary Team. Statistically, Paul ranks second in the league with an impressive 12,552 assists and 2,728 steals. He achieved the rare feat of being the first player to score at least 20,000 points while recording at least 10,000 assists, a milestone shared only with LeBron James and Russell Westbrook. Throughout his NBA career, he averaged 16.8 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 9.2 assists per game, underscoring his all-around excellence on the court.
Personal Reflections and League Tributes
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Paul reflected on his retirement, stating, 'While this chapter of being an 'NBA' player is done, the game of basketball will forever be engrained in the DNA of my life. I've been in the NBA for more than half of my life, spanning three decades.' This sentiment echoes his earlier hints this season that 2026 would be his final year. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver paid tribute to Paul, saying, 'After 21 remarkable seasons, Chris Paul retires as one of the greatest point guards in NBA history and a true steward of our sport.' Silver praised Paul's savvy playmaking, elite competitiveness, work ethic, and leadership as president of the Players Association, noting his crucial role in negotiating collective bargaining agreements and addressing societal issues.
Legacy Beyond the Hardwood
Beyond his on-court achievements, Paul's influence extends off the hardwood. He served as the past president of the National Basketball Players Association, where he championed initiatives to strengthen ties with historically black colleges and universities, demonstrating his commitment to social impact. Additionally, Paul is one of only six players in league history to have reached $400 million in career earnings, and he joins an elite group of seven players who have played at least 21 seasons, further cementing his enduring presence in the NBA. His retirement marks the close of an era, but his legacy as a transformative figure in basketball will continue to inspire future generations.
