Chris Paul Retires as One of NBA's Greatest Point Guards

The 12-time All-Star walks away from the game after a storied 21-year career.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Chris Paul announced his retirement on Friday, ending a 21-year NBA career that cemented his status as one of the greatest point guards of all time. Paul retires ranked second all-time in assists and steals, with 11 All-NBA selections and 15 playoff appearances.

Why it matters

Paul's retirement marks the end of an era for one of the most dominant and influential point guards of his generation. His combination of elite playmaking, scoring ability, and tenacious defense made him a perennial All-Star and one of the most respected players in the league.

The details

Over his 21-year career, Paul made 12 All-Star teams, won an Olympic gold medal, and led his teams to the playoffs 15 times. While he never won an NBA championship, he came close in 2021, leading the Phoenix Suns to the Finals before falling to the Milwaukee Bucks.

  • Chris Paul announced his retirement on Friday, February 13, 2026.
  • Paul retires ranked second all-time in assists and steals.

The players

Chris Paul

A 12-time NBA All-Star and one of the greatest point guards of his generation, who announced his retirement after a storied 21-year career.

Magic Johnson

A legendary point guard who won 5 NBA championships and 3 MVP awards with the Los Angeles Lakers, known for his versatility and orchestration of the 'Showtime' offense.

Steph Curry

A 4-time NBA champion and 2-time MVP with the Golden State Warriors, renowned for his prolific 3-point shooting and ability to warp defenses.

Oscar Robertson

Also known as the 'Big O', he averaged a triple-double in his first 5 pro seasons and was a 6-time assist champion and NBA champion.

Bob Cousy

An NBA pioneer who effectively invented the point guard position, winning 6 championships with the Boston Celtics and an MVP award.

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What they’re saying

“Chris Paul announced his retirement Friday, ending a 21-year career as one of the greatest point guards in NBA history.”

— Sean Keane, Author (yardbarker.com)

“It's a testament to Paul that people still call him the 'Point God' even when Magic Johnson exists.”

— Sean Keane, Author (yardbarker.com)

The takeaway

Chris Paul's retirement marks the end of an era for one of the most dominant and influential point guards of his generation, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest to ever play the position in the NBA.