NBA Legend Chris Paul Announces Retirement After Raptors Release

The 12-time All-Star and future Hall of Famer steps away from the game after over two decades in the league.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Chris Paul, the former Los Angeles Clippers star and 12-time NBA All-Star, has announced his retirement from professional basketball. The announcement comes shortly after Paul was waived by the Toronto Raptors, ending his brief stint with the team. Paul, who is second in NBA history in both assists and steals, cited a desire to spend more time with his family as the primary reason for his decision to step away from the game.

Why it matters

Paul's retirement marks the end of an era for the NBA, as he was one of the league's most dominant point guards over the past two decades. His departure leaves a void in the league, and his legacy as a fierce competitor and leader will be remembered by fans and players alike.

The details

Chris Paul was selected 4th overall by the New Orleans Hornets in the 2005 NBA Draft and was named Rookie of the Year the following season. He went on to play for the Los Angeles Clippers, Houston Rockets, Oklahoma City Thunder, Phoenix Suns, Golden State Warriors, and San Antonio Spurs before signing a deal to return to the Clippers last summer. However, his reunion with the Clippers was short-lived, as he was traded to the Raptors in early February 2026 and then waived shortly after.

  • Chris Paul was selected 4th overall by the New Orleans Hornets in the 2005 NBA Draft.
  • Paul was named NBA Rookie of the Year in 2006.
  • Paul played for the Los Angeles Clippers from 2011 to 2017.
  • Paul signed a $3.6 million deal to return to the Clippers in the summer of 2025.
  • Paul was traded to the Toronto Raptors on February 4, 2026 and then waived shortly after.

The players

Chris Paul

A 12-time NBA All-Star and future Hall of Famer who is second in NBA history in both assists and steals.

Blake Griffin

Paul's former teammate with the Los Angeles Clippers, with whom he led the team to six winning seasons, two Pacific Division titles, and three playoff series victories.

Jada Paul

Chris Paul's wife, with whom he plans to spend more time in his retirement.

Chris Paul II

Chris Paul's son, who he cited as a reason for stepping away from the game to spend more time with his family.

Camryn Paul

Chris Paul's daughter, who he also cited as a reason for his retirement to spend more time with his family.

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What they’re saying

“This is it! After over 21 years I'm stepping away from basketball. As I write this, it's hard to really know what to feel, but for once — most people would be surprised — I don't have the answer lol! But, mostly I'm filled with so much joy and gratitude!”

— Chris Paul (Instagram)

“Playing basketball for a living has been an unbelievable blessing that also came with lots of responsibility. I embraced it all. The good and the bad. As a lifelong learner, leadership is hard and is not for the weak. Some will like you and many people won't. But the goal was always the goal, and my intentions were always sincere (Damn, I love competing!!)”

— Chris Paul (Instagram)

What’s next

There are no clear next steps related to Chris Paul's retirement announcement, as he has indicated he plans to step away from basketball to spend more time with his family.

The takeaway

Chris Paul's retirement marks the end of an era for the NBA, as the 12-time All-Star and future Hall of Famer leaves behind a legacy as one of the greatest point guards in league history. His decision to step away from the game to focus on his family is a testament to his priorities and the impact he has had both on and off the court.