Chris Paul Announces NBA Retirement After This Season

Los Angeles Clippers guard Chris Paul announced that the current season will be his last in the NBA, sharing the news through a social media video ahead of his team's game against the Charlotte Hornets on Saturday in Charlotte, North Carolina.

The 40-year-old Paul, a native of Winston-Salem, North Carolina, posted an Instagram reel featuring highlights from his childhood, high school, college days at Wake Forest University, and 21-year professional career across multiple teams. The video included audio from his 2005 draft night and ended with the message "Never Delay Gratitude." In the caption, Paul wrote, "Back in NC!!! What a ride Still so much left GRATEFUL for this last one!!" The post came about 90 minutes before tipoff, marking a poignant return to his home state for what he described as his final game there.

ESPN's Shams Charania reported that Paul confirmed his plans to retire at the end of the 2024-25 season, aligning with expectations set when he signed a one-year contract with the Clippers in the offseason. Paul had previously indicated he envisioned playing no more than one additional year. Clippers coach Tyronn Lue addressed the moment before the game, saying, "I...