Chris Paul, the renowned 12-time All-Star point guard, has officially announced his retirement from the NBA after 21 remarkable seasons. At age 40, Paul concluded his professional career after a notable tenure that included stints with several teams, the most recent being the Toronto Raptors, who waived him shortly after acquiring him at the trade deadline.
Chris Paul’s Transition to Retirement
Paul shared the news of his retirement on Instagram, reflecting on his long-standing journey in basketball. He expressed mixed feelings, filled with joy and gratitude, stating, “This is it! After over 21 years I’m stepping away from basketball.” He acknowledged the profound impact the sport has had on his life, noting that it has been a significant part of his identity for over half his lifetime.
Career Milestones and Achievements
- Drafted fourth overall in the 2005 NBA Draft by the New Orleans Hornets.
- Noteworthy tenure with the Los Angeles Clippers, where he formed the famous “Lob City” alongside Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan.
- Played for several teams including the Houston Rockets, Oklahoma City Thunder, Phoenix Suns, Golden State Warriors, and San Antonio Spurs.
- Made his NBA Finals debut in 2021 with the Phoenix Suns, averaging 21.8 points and 8.2 assists per game in the Finals.
- Internationally represented the U.S., winning gold medals in the 2008 and 2012 Olympic Games.
Career Statistics
Throughout his career, Paul showcased impressive statistics:
| Statistic | Average |
|---|---|
| Points | 16.8 |
| Shooting Percentage | .469 |
| Three-Point Percentage | .370 |
| Assists | 9.2 |
| Rebounds | 4.4 |
| Minutes per Game | 33.5 |
As a player who dedicated over two decades to the game, Chris Paul’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. His contributions to the NBA and international basketball will continue to be remembered as he transitions to the next phase of his life beyond professional sports.
