NBA Legend Chris Paul Announces Retirement After 21-Year Career

The iconic point guard leaves the game as one of the all-time greats, though a championship eludes his illustrious resume.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Chris Paul, one of the NBA's most impactful point guards, has announced his retirement after a remarkable 21-season career. Ranking second all-time in both assists and steals, Paul's departure marks the end of an era for a player who consistently elevated the game with his skill, leadership, and competitive fire.

Why it matters

Paul's retirement signifies the end of an era for one of the league's most influential players of the modern era. Despite never winning a championship, he redefined the point guard position and left an indelible mark on the game through his statistical brilliance, leadership, and impact on his teammates and opponents.

The details

Drafted fourth overall in 2005 by the New Orleans Hornets (now Pelicans), Paul quickly established himself as a dynamic force. Over the next two decades, he played for a total of seven franchises – the Hornets, Clippers, Rockets, Thunder, Suns, Warriors, Spurs, and Raptors – leaving an indelible mark on each organization. Paul retires with career averages of 16.8 points and 9.2 assists per game across 1,370 regular season appearances. A 12-time All-Star and 11-time All-NBA selection, he consistently ranked among the league's elite.

  • Paul was drafted by the New Orleans Hornets in 2005.
  • He announced his retirement in February 2026 after being traded to the Toronto Raptors earlier that month.

The players

Chris Paul

One of the NBA's most impactful point guards, ranking second all-time in both assists and steals.

New Orleans Hornets

The team that drafted Chris Paul fourth overall in 2005, now known as the New Orleans Pelicans.

Toronto Raptors

The team that acquired Chris Paul in a trade in February 2026, shortly before his retirement announcement.

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What they’re saying

“Chris Paul was the ultimate competitor and one of the greatest point guards to ever play the game. His impact on the sport will be felt for generations.”

— Klay Thompson (Twitter)

“CP3 was a true maestro on the court. His vision, leadership, and tenacity made him a joy to watch and a nightmare to play against.”

— Donovan Mitchell (Instagram)

What’s next

Paul has expressed a desire to remain involved in the game, potentially in a mentorship or broadcasting role, where his basketball knowledge and leadership qualities would be invaluable.

The takeaway

Chris Paul's retirement marks the end of an era for one of the NBA's most influential players of the modern game. Though he never won a championship, his statistical brilliance, leadership, and impact on the point guard position cemented his legacy as one of the all-time greats.