Chris Paul, one of the best point guards in the league, says he’ll only play one more season in 2025-26. He made that announcement after his 20th season with the San Antonio Spurs and becoming the first player in 20 years to play all 82 games in a season. He told Jemele Hill at the American Black Film Festival, according to USA Today.
At 40 years old, Paul is still a force to be reckoned with. He started every game for the Spurs in the 2024-25 season and was a leader and starter. Even though his stats from last season weren’t as gaudy as when he played for the Los Angeles Clippers or New Orleans Hornets, he’s still dominant. He’s known as the “Point God” because of his accurate passing and game reading.
Jemele Hill asked him how much longer he’d be playing and he said, “Just one more year, probably.” The fans were devastated. He’s been a fan favorite for a long time. 12 time All-Star, 11 time All-NBA, 2 time Olympic gold medalist (2008 and 2012).
He was drafted 4th in the NBA Draft by the New Orleans Hornets in 2005 and started his career there. In 2008 he led the Hornets to their best season in franchise history, 56-26 in the Western Conference. He was All-NBA First Team and All-Defensive Second Team.
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He played 6 years with the Los Angeles Clippers after the Hornets. He led the team to multiple playoff appearances but never made it to the championship series. He also played for the Golden State Warriors, Oklahoma City Thunder, Houston Rockets and Phoenix Suns. He raised the bar for every team he played for with his leadership and passing but never won an NBA title.
He’s a free agent and many teams are after him. He might consider the Phoenix Suns or Los Angeles Clippers, teams he’s played for before. He wants to be near his family in LA which could be a factor in his decision. His last chance to win a title might be with a team that’s in contention for one, like the Lakers or Clippers.
Paul has a crazy resume in the NBA. He has almost 2,500 steals, over 21,000 points and over 11,500 assists. He’s 3rd all time in assists and 4th in steals in the NBA. Every team he plays for gets better with him.
Under Mitch Johnson he played for the San Antonio Spurs last season. For a 40 year old he started and played every game. He’s a role model for young players. He’s a mentor to players like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander who considers him a brother and friend.
The countdown has begun for fans as he’s only playing one more season. No matter what team he chooses, many hope he gets a ring next season because he’s never won an NBA title. Fans know he’ll give it his all like he always does.
Paul is not just a basketball player but a role model for his teammates. He makes the competition better and helps young players develop. He’s liked by fans and other pros for his on court and off court commitment.
Paul said he’ll put his family first when talking about the future. He lives in LA with his family and kids. Which team he chooses for next season will be based on the balance of time he spends playing basketball and time with his family. And he wants to be a starter which makes it harder.
Whether he wins a title or not Chris Paul will have a lasting legacy in the NBA. He’ll always be remembered as one of the all time greatest point guards. This will be the last time to see him play in the 2025-26 season. His fans hope he goes out with a bang.
Mark Phury is a dynamic sports enthusiast with a knack for capturing the thrill of the game. With 3 years at Hindustan Times, he delivers sharp, engaging stories that resonate with fans. Reach him at markphury@gmail.com for insights that score every time.