Current playing status and latest updates
As of the 2025 offseason, Chris Paul is not on an active NBA roster and has indicated he has ended his playing career, but he has not formally announced retirement to the public. In recent statements to media, Paul has described himself as retired from playing while remaining engaged in basketball operations and broadcasting. He is 40 years old and last played in the NBA during the 2023–24 season with the Golden State Warriors. No team has signed him for the 2025–26 season, and he has not entered an NBA coaching or front office role on a full-time basis.
Documented career timeline and end-of-playing timeline
Below is a concise, source-based timeline of key dates relevant to Paul’s playing status, team changes, and post-playing transition so far.
| Date or Period | Event | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| July 2023 | Signed two-year, $70 million extension with Phoenix Suns | Confirmed intent to play and mentor younger Suns core |
| Feb 8, 2023 | Traded to Golden State Warriors (with picks) for Dario Saric and others | Move brought veteran leadership to a contending Warriors team |
| 2023–24 season | Played 56 games, averaged 9.5 PPG and 9.8 APG | Final full season as a primary starter and high-minute contributor |
| June 2024 | Suns declined team option for 2024–25; waived after training camp | Openly signaled transition toward post-playing roles |
| July 2024 | Joined TNT as NBA analyst for select games | First regular media role indicating shift to broadcasting |
| Oct 2024 onward | No active NBA contract; not listed on any roster | Status consistent with having ended playing career |
What “retired” means in the NBA context
In the NBA, a player may be described as retired when they stop signing contracts, cease participating in games and practices, and communicate to media and teams that they are no longer pursuing playing. Formal retirement can be announced at any time; some players retire midseason, others at season’s end. Until an official statement, status can remain in a gray area, which is why media and teams often use softer language such as “done playing” or “stepping away.”
Statements, context, and what Paul has said recently
Paul has told reporters he is done playing and described himself as retired, while emphasizing an ongoing interest in staying close to the game through broadcasting and front-office advisory roles. He has not indicated plans to pursue a head coaching license or daily NBA team duties, but has mentioned enjoying the flexibility to mentor players and appear on television. These comments clarify intent without a formal league filing, and they align with how other recently retired point guards have transitioned.
What this means for legacy, Hall of Fame, and future roles
Whether or not Paul files a formal retirement paper with the league, his legacy as a ten-time All-Star, 12-time All-NBA selection, and eight-time All-Defensive Team member is already secure. His impact on playmaking, clutch performance, and leadership is well documented in league history. For the near term, expect Paul to remain visible in media booths, guest-team appearances, and NBA events, with possible future front-office or league office advisory work as he scales back from travel and game preparation.
Frequently asked questions about Chris Paul’s status
- Is Chris Paul still playing in 2025? No, he is not on any roster and has stated he is done playing.
- Has Chris Paul officially retired? He has described himself as retired publicly, but there is no widely circulated league filing or formal press conference declaring retirement.
- Why did Chris Paul leave the Suns and Warriors? The Suns traded him to pursue a rebuild; the Warriors did not re-sign him, and he did not receive further NBA offers.
- Will Chris Paul become a coach? He has shown interest in mentoring and broadcasting but has not committed to a coaching staff or franchise role.
- What is Chris Paul doing now? He is working as an analyst, making media appearances, and staying involved in basketball operations and philanthropy.
Key takeaways and quick summary
Chris Paul is not actively playing in the NBA as of 2025, has communicated that he is done playing, and appears to be in a transitional phase toward media and basketball operations roles. While he has not filed a formal league retirement, his status is effectively retired from playing. His Hall of Fame-caliber legacy is secure, and his near-term focus will likely remain on broadcasting, mentorship, and select NBA engagements.