Chris Paul Retires After Legendary 21-Year Career

The Point God steps away from the game after a storied run across multiple teams.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Chris Paul announced his retirement from the NBA on Friday with a post on social media, ending a legendary 21-year career. Paul's announcement came shortly after he was waived by the Raptors, who had acquired him at the trade deadline in a deal with the Clippers. The retirement tour soured quickly, as Paul's final season was marked by tensions and an unceremonious exit from the Clippers before being traded to Toronto.

Why it matters

Paul is considered one of the greatest point guards of his generation, known for his high basketball IQ, fierce defense, and ability to elevate his teams. His retirement marks the end of an era and the departure of a true NBA icon.

The details

Over his 21-year career, Paul played for the Hornets, Clippers, Rockets, Thunder, Suns, Warriors, and Spurs. He was a 12-time All-Star, 4-time assists leader, and 9-time All-Defensive team selection. Despite sustained regular season success, Paul struggled to reach the NBA Finals until his final years, finally making it in 2021 with the Suns before losing to the Bucks.

  • Paul announced his retirement on Friday, February 15, 2026.
  • He was waived by the Raptors shortly before his retirement announcement.

The players

Chris Paul

A 21-year NBA veteran and one of the greatest point guards of his generation, known for his high basketball IQ, fierce defense, and ability to elevate his teams.

Devin Booker

The young star Paul paired with on the Phoenix Suns, helping the team reach the NBA Finals in 2021.

James Harden

Paul's former backcourt teammate on the Houston Rockets, where the two formed a dynamic duo that revolutionized the team's offense.

Blake Griffin

One of Paul's Lob City teammates with the Los Angeles Clippers, known for their high-flying alley-oop connections.

DeAndre Jordan

The other half of the Lob City duo with Paul and Griffin on the Clippers, finishing countless Paul lobs with thunderous dunks.

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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)

What’s next

Paul's retirement marks the end of an era, as one of the greatest point guards of his generation steps away from the game. His legacy as a fierce competitor, floor general, and leader will undoubtedly cement his place in the Basketball Hall of Fame.

The takeaway

Chris Paul's retirement closes the book on a legendary 21-year NBA career that saw him establish himself as one of the greatest point guards of his era. Despite never winning a championship, Paul's impact on the game through his leadership, basketball IQ, and two-way play will ensure his lasting legacy as a true NBA icon.