NBA Legend Chris Paul Retires After Storied 21-Year Career

The 12-time All-Star and 2-time Olympic gold medalist walks away from the game with over 20,000 points and 10,000 assists.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Chris Paul, one of the greatest point guards in NBA history, has announced his retirement from professional basketball after being waived by the Toronto Raptors. The 40-year-old Paul, a likely future Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer, walks away from the game with a decorated resume that includes 12 All-Star selections, 11 All-NBA honors, and two Olympic gold medals with Team USA.

Why it matters

Paul's retirement marks the end of an era for one of the most accomplished and influential players of his generation. As a floor general known for his elite playmaking, leadership, and clutch performances, Paul helped redefine the point guard position and left an indelible mark on the game of basketball.

The details

Over his 21-year NBA career, Paul amassed over 20,000 points and 10,000 assists, becoming the first player in league history to reach those statistical milestones. He played for several teams, including the New Orleans Hornets (now Pelicans), Los Angeles Clippers, Houston Rockets, Oklahoma City Thunder, Phoenix Suns, and Golden State Warriors, making 12 All-Star teams and earning 11 All-NBA selections along the way. Paul also won two Olympic gold medals with Team USA in 2008 and 2012.

  • Chris Paul announced his retirement on February 13, 2026.
  • Paul's final NBA season was with the Toronto Raptors in 2025-26, though he never played a game for the team after being waived in December 2025.
  • Paul's first NBA stint was with the New Orleans Hornets (now Pelicans) from 2005 to 2011.
  • He played for the Los Angeles Clippers from 2011 to 2017 and then returned to the team for the 2025-26 season, his final year in the NBA.

The players

Chris Paul

A 12-time NBA All-Star, 11-time All-NBA selection, and 2-time Olympic gold medalist, Chris Paul is considered one of the greatest point guards in NBA history.

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What they’re saying

“It's time for me to show up for others and in other ways. This last season, I knew I couldn't do it unless I was at home with my family.”

— Chris Paul (Instagram)

What’s next

Paul's retirement will likely lead to his induction into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in the near future, cementing his legacy as one of the all-time greats of the game.

The takeaway

Chris Paul's retirement marks the end of an illustrious career that saw him become one of the most dominant and influential point guards of his era. His combination of elite skills, leadership, and commitment to winning will ensure that he is remembered as a true basketball legend.