Chris Paul, the legendary 12-time NBA All-Star, has revealed that he plans to play just one more season before retiring from professional basketball. The 39-year-old point guard made the announcement during a conversation with Jemele Hill at the American Black Film Festival, acknowledging he is in the “twilight” of his career.
Paul’s Historic 20th Season
Paul just wrapped up his 20th NBA season with the San Antonio Spurs, where he achieved a remarkable milestone:
✅ Started all 82 games—the first time since the 2014-15 season (with the Clippers).
✅ First player in NBA history to start every game in his 20th season.
While his production wasn’t flashy (8.8 PPG, 7.4 APG, 3.6 RPG), his leadership and durability proved invaluable for a young Spurs squad.
Where Will CP3 Play His Final Season?
Now a free agent, Paul faces a major decision for his 21st and final year. Key factors in his choice:
🏀 Contender or Homecoming?
- Los Angeles Lakers – A chance to team up with LeBron James, his close friend, and chase a championship.
- LA Clippers – A potential reunion with the franchise where he spent six prime seasons.
- Family First – Paul emphasized that his decision will heavily weigh where his family is based (they’ve remained in LA while he played elsewhere).
“I love to play basketball, but I love my kids and my family more. That is gonna weigh a huge part on my decision.”
🏆 The Elusive Championship
Despite his Hall of Fame résumé, Paul has never won an NBA title. Joining a playoff-ready team (like the Lakers or Clippers) could be his last shot at a ring.
CP3’s Legendary Career by the Numbers
📊 12x NBA All-Star
🏅 11x All-NBA Team
🛡️ 9x All-Defensive Team
🎯 5x Assists Leader (2nd all-time in assists – 12,499)
✋ 6x Steals Leader (2nd all-time in steals – 2,717)
Only John Stockton (15,806 assists, 3,265 steals) ranks above him in both categories.
What’s Next?
Paul’s farewell tour will be one of the NBA’s biggest storylines in 2025-26. Whether he reunites with LeBron, returns to the Clippers, or chooses another contender, his final season promises to be an emotional ride for fans.
