NBA Legend Chris Paul Retires After 21 Seasons

Steph Curry pays tribute to former Warriors teammate and future Hall of Famer

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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After 21 illustrious seasons in the NBA, legendary point guard Chris Paul has announced his retirement from professional basketball. Paul, a 12-time All-Star, 11-time All-NBA selection, and 9-time All-Defensive team member, is widely regarded as one of the greatest floor generals in NBA history. Golden State Warriors superstar Steph Curry, who played alongside Paul for one season, released a video message congratulating his former teammate on a remarkable career.

Why it matters

Chris Paul's retirement marks the end of an era for the NBA, as he was one of the league's most dominant and influential players over the past two decades. His combination of elite playmaking, defense, and leadership made him a perennial All-Star and helped shape the modern point guard position. Curry's tribute underscores the respect and admiration Paul commanded from his peers, cementing his legacy as an all-time great.

The details

Paul, 41, announced his retirement via an Instagram post, stating 'This is it.' Over his 21-year career, he played for the New Orleans Hornets, Los Angeles Clippers, Houston Rockets, Oklahoma City Thunder, San Antonio Spurs, and most recently, the Toronto Raptors and Golden State Warriors. He was named Rookie of the Year in 2006, made 12 All-Star teams, 11 All-NBA teams, and 9 All-Defensive teams. Paul also led the league in steals 6 times and assists 5 times, solidifying his status as one of the greatest point guards in NBA history.

  • Chris Paul announced his retirement on February 13, 2026.
  • Paul spent the 2023-24 season playing alongside Steph Curry on the Golden State Warriors.

The players

Chris Paul

A future Hall of Fame point guard who played 21 seasons in the NBA, making 12 All-Star teams, 11 All-NBA teams, and 9 All-Defensive teams. He is considered one of the greatest floor generals in NBA history.

Steph Curry

A two-time NBA MVP and superstar for the Golden State Warriors, who played one season alongside Chris Paul in 2023-24.

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What they’re saying

“C.P., just wanted to say congratulations man. An unbelievable career. 21 amazing years. A lot of battles against you. A great year playing with you. Enjoy retirement… Beyond well deserved.”

— Steph Curry (Golden State Warriors)

What’s next

Chris Paul's retirement will be celebrated across the NBA, as he is widely regarded as one of the greatest point guards to ever play the game. His induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame is expected to be a formality in the coming years.

The takeaway

Chris Paul's retirement marks the end of an era for the NBA, as he was a dominant and influential player for over two decades. His combination of elite playmaking, defense, and leadership made him a perennial All-Star and cemented his legacy as one of the greatest point guards in league history. Steph Curry's heartfelt tribute underscores the profound impact and respect Paul commanded from his peers.