Chris Paul, who ranks second all-time in the NBA in assists and steals, has announced that he will be stepping away from the game.

In a post on Instagram, Paul wrote in part“This is it! After a career of over 21 years, I am stepping away from basketball. As I write this, it’s hard to really know what to feel, but only this time – most people will be surprised – I don’t have an answer lol! But mostly, I’m filled with so much joy and gratitude! The game of basketball will forever be etched into the DNA of my life until this chapter as an ‘NBA player’ is over. ”

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver praised Paul’s work ethic and his role as former president of the National Basketball Players Association.

“After 21 incredible seasons, Chris Paul retires as one of the greatest point guards in NBA history and a true steward of our sport,” Silver said in a statement. “From the moment he entered the league, Chris distinguished himself with his savvy playmaking skills, elite competitiveness and hard work. He also dedicated significant time and energy to his role as Players Association President, providing a thoughtful and principled perspective to strengthen our game and business.”

His leadership on behalf of the players has been essential in negotiating collective bargaining agreements, guiding the league through the pandemic, and addressing important social issues. On behalf of the NBA, I congratulate Chris on his extraordinary career and thank him for his friendship, partnership and lasting contributions to our game. ”

Paul was traded to Toronto at the trade deadline, a move he did not have to report to the team. According to multiple reports, the Raptors abandoning pole.

The Raptors knew Paul would never play in Toronto, which raised the question of whether the Wake Forest legend would try to finish the season with another team in pursuit of what he didn’t get: an NBA title.

Last summer, he said he hated missing events with his children in recent years, but now he can focus more on his family and other interests.

The Clippers parted ways with Paul in early December after he rejoined the team as a free agent last July.

Paul, 40, had played 21 seasons in the NBA. suggested in november That would be his last. A 12-time All-Star and two-time Olympic gold medalist, he was named to the All-NBA First Team four times and ranks second in NBA history in assists (12,552) and steals (2,728). He became the first player to score at least 20,000 points while recording at least 10,000 assists.

He became perhaps the greatest player in Clippers franchise history, leading the team to winning seasons in six seasons, including the Clippers’ first two Pacific Division titles and three playoff series wins from 2011 to 2017.

He averaged 2.9 points and 3.3 assists this season, playing just 14.2 minutes per game (career lows), and missed five consecutive games at all in mid-November.

From Winston-Salem A video has been published on social media in november Approximately 90 minutes before tipoff, the show will show highlights of the man who played for multiple NBA teams during his 21-year pro career. The video covers Paul’s childhood, high school days, and his days playing at Wake Forest and being drafted into the league.

in Post by XPaul wrote, “We’re back in North Carolina!!! It’s been an amazing ride…so much more to go…Finally, thank you!!”

I’m back in North Carolina!!! What an amazing ride it was… there’s so much more left… I’m so grateful to be on this last ride!! 🤞🏾 pic.twitter.com/1ZaJSqsWRD

— Chris Paul (@CP3) November 22, 2025

After releasing the video before the Clippers-Hornets game in North Carolina, Paul declined an interview request to discuss his future through the team’s public relations staff. He quietly exited the Spectrum Center alongside staff members wearing brown plaid flannel coats.

Afterward, he met up with several family members who had come to watch the game and exchanged hugs.

Paul was selected fifth overall by the New Orleans Hornets in 2005 and was named to the NBA All-Defensive First Team seven times. He has played for seven different NBA teams and is already in the Hall of Fame. The 2008 Olympic “Redemption Team” was recognized as part of the Class of 2025.

It won’t be long before he becomes independent.

Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.