Legendary Career Comes to an End

NBA superstar Chris Paul officially announced his retirement from professional basketball on February 13, 2026, ending one of the most impactful careers in league history. The announcement followed his release by the Toronto Raptors, who acquired him in a three-team trade but did not have him play. Paul shared his decision on social media, expressing gratitude for the game and reflecting on his 21-season journey.

Career Highlights and Achievements

People consider Paul to be one of the best point guards who ever played in the NBA.

 

• His professional basketball career lasted 21 seasons during which he played for seven different teams.

 

• He participated in more than 1,370 games that counted as regular-season matches.

 

• He received 12 All-Star selections and 11 All-NBA team selections throughout his career.

 

• He won two Olympic gold medals for the United States in the years 2008 and 2012.

 

• He received the NBA Rookie of the Year award when he played his first season in 2006.

 

• He ranks second all-time for assists because he recorded 12,552 assists and for steals because he recorded 2,728 steals which puts him behind only legendary player John Stockton.

 

Paul made a major impact on basketball even though he never won an NBA championship because he served as a leader during games and outside of them.

Final Season and Retirement Announcement

Paul finished his career by experiencing multiple player movements and organizational modifications. The Los Angeles Clippers waived him in December after he played 16 games following his November 2025 announcement that the 2025–26 season would be his final year. The Raptors acquired him through a trade but decided to keep him off their active roster.

Paul announced his retirement through an Instagram post which showed his emotional state. He declared his retirement from basketball after more than 21 years of professional play. The game has played a major role in his life according to his message which he used to express his happiness and gratitude and complete contentment with his decision.

Legacy and Impact on the Game

Paul's impact reaches beyond his statistical achievements. He transformed point guard position assessment through his NBA career as one of the league's most respected floor generals who demonstrated exceptional court vision and leadership skills and basketball intelligence. The Clippers' "Lob City" period from 2011 to 2017 featured him as a key player who helped the team achieve multiple playoff berths and division championships.

The NBA 75th Anniversary Team honored Paul because his leadership and performance excellence established him as one of basketball's greatest players in history.

Future Plans

Paul plans to stop playing basketball but he suggested that he will continue his basketball career while he spends more time with his family and investigates new possibilities.  The sports industry will maintain his cultural impact because his accomplishments and his leadership skills as a competitor and game ambassador will sustain his legacy.