Clippers Guard Chris Paul Says He Will Retire After 2025-26 Season
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Los Angeles — Los Angeles Clippers point guard Chris Paul announced on Saturday that the 2025-26 campaign will be his final NBA season, confirming earlier speculation that he was entering the last year of his career.
The 12-time All-Star delivered the news in an Instagram reel featuring career highlights and the caption, “Back in NC!!! What a ride Still so much left GRATEFUL for this last one!!” ESPN’s Shams Charania first reported Paul’s plans.
Paul, 39, is in Charlotte for the Clippers’ only visit of the season. The veteran grew up in North Carolina and played collegiately at Wake Forest.
Now in his 21st NBA season, the future Hall of Famer has appeared in more than 1,300 regular-season games, averaging 16.9 points, 9.2 assists, 4.4 rebounds and 2.0 steals. His postseason resume includes averages of 20.0 points and 8.3 assists across 149 playoff contests.
Paul’s list of accolades features 11 All-NBA selections, nine All-Defensive nods, six league steals titles, five assist titles, the 2006 Rookie of the Year award and inclusion on the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team.
After starring for the Clippers from 2011 to 2017, Paul spent time with the Rockets, Thunder, Suns, Warriors and Spurs before returning to Los Angeles on a one-year contract this summer. His role has since shifted to a reserve spot, where he is averaging 2.5 points and 3.3 assists while shooting 27 percent in 10 appearances.
Paul hinted during the offseason that retirement was approaching, and Saturday’s announcement sets the timeline: he will finish out this season and next, then walk away at the conclusion of 2025-26.
Source: Hoops Wire
