Chris Paul, one of the NBA's most iconic point guards, has officially signaled that his illustrious career is approaching its final chapter. In a series of recent interviews and public appearances, the 40-year-old veteran made it clear that he plans to play "at the most, a year" more in the league, marking the upcoming 2025-26 season as likely his swan song.
Paul's announcement came during a candid conversation with journalist Jemele Hill at the American Black Film Festival on July 6, 2025, where he reflected on his two decades in professional basketball. "I just finished my 20th season, which is a blessing in itself," Paul said. "I've been in the NBA for more than half of my life, which is a blessing. But these years, you do not get back with your kids, with your family." This heartfelt admission sheds light on the personal considerations that are guiding his decision to wind down a career that has been nothing short of remarkable.
Drafted fourth overall in the 2005 NBA Draft by the New Orleans Hornets, Paul quickly established himself as a premier talent. His rookie season earned him NBA Rookie of the Year honors and a spot on the All-Rookie First Team. Over six seasons with the Hornets, Paul transformed the franchise, most notably during the 2007-08 season when New Orleans posted a franchise-best 56-26 record. That year, Paul earned his first All-NBA First Team and All-Defensive Second Team honors, leading the Hornets to the Western Conference's second seed. Although the Hornets fell to the San Antonio Spurs in a hard-fought seven-game series in the playoffs, Paul's impact was undeniable.
Throughout his career, Paul has been a fixture among the league's elite. He boasts 11 All-NBA selections, including four First Team nods, and nine All-Defensive team honors. His on-court excellence is reflected in his career totals: 23,011 points, 12,499 assists, and 2,717 steals, placing him second all-time in assists and steals behind only NBA legend John Stockton. Paul has also led the league in assists five times and steals six times, cementing his status as one of the greatest point guards in history.
Paul's journey has seen him don the jerseys of seven NBA teams. After his tenure with New Orleans, he spent six years with the Los Angeles Clippers, where he continued to build his legacy. Subsequent stops included the Houston Rockets, Oklahoma City Thunder, Phoenix Suns, Golden State Warriors, and most recently, the San Antonio Spurs.
The 2024-25 season with the Spurs was a testament to Paul's durability and professionalism. Defying age-related expectations, he started all 82 games for the first time in his career and became the first player to do so in his 20th NBA season or later. Over those games, he averaged 8.8 points, 3.6 rebounds, 7.4 assists, and 1.3 steals per game, while shooting 42.7% from the field and 37.7% from beyond the arc. These numbers, while modest compared to his prime, underscore his continued value as a floor general and locker room leader.
Despite his declining scoring average—8.8 points per game marked the lowest of his career—Paul's playmaking and defensive acumen remain sharp. His 7.4 assists per game highlight his ongoing ability to orchestrate offenses, and his 1.3 steals per game demonstrate his defensive tenacity. Moreover, Paul averaged just 28 minutes per game last season, his second-lowest mark, indicating a more measured role designed to preserve his effectiveness.
As a free agent this offseason, Paul's next destination remains uncertain. He has expressed a strong desire to be close to his family, who reside on the West Coast, particularly in Los Angeles. This personal priority has influenced his free agency considerations, as he weighs offers from various teams. Notably, he has reportedly declined interest from the Charlotte Hornets and Dallas Mavericks but has held talks with the Milwaukee Bucks. The Los Angeles Clippers and Phoenix Suns, two franchises with which he shares deep history, are also in the mix.
One key factor in Paul's decision will be his role on the team. Throughout his career, he has been a starter, except during his lone season with the Golden State Warriors, where he came off the bench in 40 games. Paul has indicated a preference to maintain a starting position, which narrows his options given roster compositions around the league.
Beyond the hardwood, Paul has built a reputation as a consummate professional and humanitarian. He has earned accolades such as the 2016 ESPYs Humanitarian of the Year and the Mannie Jackson Human Spirit Award from the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Off the court, Paul's leadership and character have been as impactful as his on-court exploits.
Looking back, Paul's career highlights include leading the Phoenix Suns to the 2021 NBA Finals, where they came agonizingly close to a championship before falling to the Milwaukee Bucks in six games. This remains the closest Paul has come to securing the elusive Larry O'Brien Trophy, a title that has eluded him despite his stellar career.
As the 2025-26 season approaches, all eyes will be on Chris Paul as he embarks on what is likely his farewell tour. Whether he returns to familiar territory with the Clippers or Lakers, or embraces a new challenge elsewhere, Paul's presence will undoubtedly be a boon for any team seeking veteran leadership and playoff experience. Moreover, his role in helping to establish Mitch Johnson's first year as San Antonio Spurs head coach could be a fitting coda if he remains in San Antonio.
Chris Paul's NBA journey has been a masterclass in resilience, skill, and leadership. From a standout rookie in New Orleans to a seasoned veteran guiding teams across the league, his impact on the game is profound. As he prepares to step away from professional play, fans, teammates, and rivals alike will celebrate a career that has left an indelible mark on basketball history.
