Chris Paul Set for Final NBA Season

It seems Chris Paul might be gearing up for his farewell tour. The 2025-2026 NBA season is shaping up to possibly be his last as a player.

On Saturday, ESPN reported that Paul intends to retire following this season. Just last month, he began his 21st season in the league.

In a post on X, Paul, a North Carolina native, expressed his excitement, saying, “I’m back in North Carolina!!! It’s been a great ride…I still have a lot left…I’m grateful to have ridden at the end!!” He also shared a video montage showcasing his time with different teams and key moments in his career.

Reportedly, Paul’s decision to retire came months after he signed a one-year deal to rejoin the Los Angeles Clippers.

Paul was drafted by New Orleans in the first round of the 2005 NBA Draft, eventually leaving for the Clippers after the 2010-2011 season. He spent six seasons in Southern California.

Soon after signing his contract, Paul mentioned that he hadn’t fully decided on his basketball future yet. He really just wanted to soak in the experience of the season ahead.

Reflecting on his journey, Paul told ESPN’s Marika Andrews back in July, “Throughout this season, at some point, I’m thinking about retired players that I know and different types of things, you know, figuring it out for yourself. I understand that. But more than anything, I’m definitely going to enjoy this season. I’m not going to take this for granted.”

This season, Paul is averaging 2.5 points and 3.3 assists per game while dedicating just over 13 minutes on the court per game. As of Saturday’s matchup against the Charlotte Hornets, the Clippers held a record of 4 wins and 11 losses.