Chris Paul – “The Point God”

Table of Contents

1. Early Life and Background
2. College Career
3. NBA Career Overview
4. Career Timeline by Team
5. Playing Style and Legacy
6. International Career
7. Personal Life and Business
8. Historic Milestones and Records
9. Awards and Honors
10. Current Status and December 2025 Developments
11. Hall of Fame Legacy

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Early Life and Background

Family and Nickname Origin

Paul’s family gave him the nickname “CP3“ because all three men in his immediate family—Paul (his father), Charles (his full name), and his older brother C.J.—shared the same first initial “C” and middle initial “P.” This playful family nickname would eventually become iconic throughout his NBA career.

Athletic Development

Charles Edward Paul Sr. actively coached his sons in both basketball and football during their childhood, instilling in them a strong work ethic, competitive spirit, and love of the game. This early mentorship shaped Chris Paul’s approach to basketball and his understanding of the sport’s fundamentals.

College Career

Paul attended Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, playing for the Demon Deacons (2003-2005). During his two-year college tenure, he established himself as one of the nation’s premier point guard prospects.

Achievements and Recognition

• Named a McDonald’s All-American before college
• Led Wake Forest to competitive success
• Attracted significant attention from NBA scouts
• Demonstrated elite-level playmaking and defensive abilities
• Averaged impressive statistics that foreshadowed his NBA success

His college performance confirmed that Paul possessed the skills, basketball IQ, and competitive drive necessary to succeed at the highest level of professional basketball.

NBA Career Overview

Chris Paul is in his 21st season in the league in 2025, and he already announced that 2025-26 would be his final season. Throughout his two-decade NBA career, Paul has established himself as one of the greatest point guards in basketball history.

>Career Timeline by Team

New Orleans Hornets (2005-2011)

The New Orleans Hornets selected Paul with the 4th overall pick in the 2005 NBA Draft. In his rookie season, Paul won the NBA Rookie of the Year Award, immediately establishing himself as an elite point guard.

Impact: Paul’s arrival was transformative for New Orleans. He led the league in assists five times throughout his career, with his first assist title coming during his Hornets tenure. His presence helped the franchise rebuild following Hurricane Katrina, establishing the Hornets as a playoff contender and making basketball relevant again in New Orleans.

Achievements:

• Multiple NBA All-Star selections
• Consistent All-NBA and All-Defensive Team honors
• Leading the league in steals multiple times
• Building the Hornets into a Western Conference competitor

Los Angeles Clippers (2011-2017)

On December 14, 2011, Paul was traded to the Los Angeles Clippers in a multi-team deal. This trade marked the beginning of one of the most successful eras in franchise history.

Six Seasons of Excellence:

• Transformed the Clippers from a perennial lottery team into playoff contenders
• Formed dynamic partnerships with Blake Griffin and later DeAndre Jordan
• Made the Clippers one of the most entertaining teams in the Western Conference
• Multiple playoff appearances and growing franchise relevance
• Made 12 NBA All-Star selections across his career

Legacy in Los Angeles: Paul’s six seasons with the Clippers fundamentally changed the franchise’s trajectory. He is widely considered one of the greatest players in Clippers history, establishing winning culture and consistent excellence during his tenure.

Houston Rockets (2017-2019)

In the summer of 2017, Paul signed a four-year contract with the Houston Rockets. Playing alongside James Harden, the backcourt formed one of the most dynamic duos in the league.

Highlights:

• 2017-18 season: Rockets won a franchise-record 65 games
• Western Conference Finals appearance
• Elite two-way performances in the backcourt
• Despite individual excellence, injuries and playoff matchups limited championship success

Oklahoma City Thunder (2019-2020)

Paul was traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2019 as part of the Rockets’ roster restructuring. Despite being in his mid-30s, Paul logged his 12,000th career assist during his time with the Thunder, becoming only the third player ever to reach this milestone.

Phoenix Suns (2020-2023)

In the summer of 2020, at age 35, Paul signed with the Phoenix Suns, beginning what many expected to be a quiet twilight chapter. Instead, his three seasons in Phoenix proved to be one of his most impactful periods.

Historic Three-Season Run:

• 2020-21 Season: Led the previously-mediocre Suns to the NBA Finals for the first time in franchise history, losing to the Milwaukee Bucks in six games
• 2021-22 Season: The Suns won a franchise-record 64 games with Paul as the primary playmaker
• 2022-23 Season: Led the league in assists at age 37, demonstrating that age was merely a number for his basketball intelligence and ability

Impact: Paul’s veteran leadership, clutch performances, and basketball genius were instrumental in the Suns’ resurgence. He proved that experience and basketball IQ could compete with youth and athleticism.

Golden State Warriors (2023-2024)

Paul signed with the Golden State Warriors for the 2023-24 season, reuniting with longtime rival Stephen Curry. This was the first time in his career that Paul came off the bench consistently. Despite limited playing time, he provided veteran leadership and playoff experience to a Warriors team seeking a championship run.

San Antonio Spurs (2024-2025)

In July 2024, Paul signed a one-year, $11 million deal with the San Antonio Spurs, seeking more playing time after his bench role with Golden State. During the 2024-25 season, he made history:

Historic Achievements:

• November 15, 2024: Logged his 12,000th career assist, joining John Stockton and Jason Kidd as only the third player to reach this milestone
• December 8, 2024: Passed Jason Kidd for second all-time in career assists
• February 20, 2025: Passed Kidd for second all-time in career steals
• April 13, 2025: Became the first player in NBA history to accumulate 23,000 points with at least 12,000 assists, recording 15 points, seven rebounds, six assists, and four steals in a 125-118 win over Toronto

Los Angeles Clippers (2025 – Present)

On July 21, 2025, Paul signed a one-year, $3.6 million contract to reunite with the Los Angeles Clippers for his 21st NBA season. He called this decision a “no-brainer,” as it gave him the chance to complete his career with the franchise where he made his mark.

The Homecoming:

• Returning to the franchise where he spent six seasons and became a legend
• Opportunity to retire as a Clipper after his first stint (2011-2017)
• Playing a veteran off-the-bench role to support championship aspirations

December 2025: The Shocking Exit

Breaking News – December 3, 2025:

Chris Paul’s time with the Los Angeles Clippers is over. Paul was sent home by the franchise late on Tuesday night in the middle of their five-game road trip. The Clippers confirmed that they were parting ways with Paul early on Wednesday morning.

How It Happened:

For the Point God Chris Paul, what he saw on his phone screen in an Atlanta hotel room was a harsh digital finality to a storybook homecoming that had soured almost from the start. “Just Found Out I’m Being Sent Home,” his Instagram story read, a stark six-word epitaph for his second stint with the Los Angeles Clippers.

Official Statement:

“We are parting ways with Chris and he will no longer be with the team,” Clippers president Lawrence Frank said. “We will work with him on the next step of his career.” Frank also stated: “Chris is a legendary Clipper who had a historic career. I want to make one thing very clear. No one is blaming Chris for our underperformance. I accept responsibility for the record we have right now. There are a lot of reasons why we’ve struggled. We’re grateful for the impact Chris has made on the franchise.”

Context and Circumstances:

The Clippers are in Atlanta ahead of a game against the Hawks. Paul is in his 21st season in the league, and he already announced that it will be his last. The 40-year-old has averaged 2.9 points and 3.3 assists per game this season while coming off the bench consistently.

Timing and Shock:

The move comes at 3AM EST during the Clippers road trip. The move has sent shockwaves through the NBA overnight. This wasn’t supposed to be how it ended. Not for Paul, the legendary “Point God” in his 21st season, and not for the Clippers, a team drowning in desperation with a dismal 5-16 record. When he signed a one-year, $3.6 million deal last offseason, it was billed as a “no-brainer,” a final ride with the franchise he once lifted to relevance.

Team Performance:

The Clippers are currently in Atlanta, preparing for a game against the Hawks. The Clippers have struggled significantly this season, entering their upcoming game with a disappointing 5-16 record. They have lost five consecutive games and eight of their last nine.

Player Response:

The decision was met with criticism from league observers and analysts. It appears the LA Clippers have chosen to send Chris Paul into early retirement with their latest move.

What’s Next:

It remains uncertain what the future holds for Paul as he navigates the closing chapters of his storied career following this unexpected separation from the Clippers.

Playing Style and Legacy

“The Point God” – Revolutionary Playmaker

Chris Paul led the league in assists five times and led the league in steals six times throughout his career. He revolutionized the point guard position with his exceptional basketball intelligence, leadership, and two-way excellence.

Defensive Excellence

Paul is considered one of the greatest defensive point guards in NBA history. His nine All-Defensive Team selections reflect his consistent ability to defend opposing guards and impact the game on that end of the court. His low center of gravity, quick hands, and anticipation made him nearly impossible to score against.

Clutch Performances

Throughout his career, Paul demonstrated an uncanny ability to deliver in high-pressure moments. His playoff performances, leadership in critical games, and ability to execute when it matters most established him as a clutch performer and ultimate winner.

Basketball IQ

More than any statistical measure, Paul’s basketball IQ and understanding of the game set him apart. His ability to make every player around him better, run complex offenses, and make decisions that won games made him invaluable to every franchise he played for.

International Career

FIBA World Championship and Olympics

Paul made his international debut for the United States at the 2006 FIBA World Championship in Japan, where he finished with a tournament-high 44 assists, helping Team USA win the bronze medal.

At the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, Paul played a key role off the bench in gold-medal-winning Team USA, scoring 13 points in the final game victory against Spain.

For the 2012 Olympics in London, Paul was promoted to the starting point guard position, averaging 8.2 points, 5.1 assists, and 1.6 steals per game en route to another gold medal and an undefeated tournament run.

Personal Life and Business

Family

Paul married Jada Crawley in 2011. The couple maintains a relatively private family life despite Paul’s celebrity status and global recognition.

Business Ventures and Leadership

Paul became the president of the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA) from 2013 to 2021, where he advocated for player rights, benefits, and better working conditions. His leadership in this role demonstrated his influence beyond the basketball court.

Ownership and Investments

In November 2025, Paul bought a stake in NWSL club Angel City, expanding his portfolio into women’s professional sports and demonstrating his interest in sports ownership and development.

Endorsement Deals

Among the highest-paid athletes globally, Paul holds endorsement deals with major companies including Jordan Brand, State Farm, and Gatorade, leveraging his reputation as an elite competitor and respected basketball figure.

Historic Milestones and Records

Career Assists Records

• 12,000th Career Assist: November 15, 2024 (3rd player ever—after John Stockton and Jason Kidd)
• Second All-Time in Career Assists: December 8, 2024 (surpassed Jason Kidd)
• 23,000 Points with 12,000+ Assists: April 13, 2025 (first and only player in NBA history to achieve this combination)

Career Steals Records

• Second All-Time in Career Steals: February 20, 2025 (surpassed Jason Kidd)
• Led League in Steals: 6 times (most in NBA history)

Career Statistics (1,354 Games)

• Points Per Game: 16.9
• Assists Per Game: 9.2
• Rebounds Per Game: 4.4
• Steals Per Game: 2.0
• Field Goal %: 47.5%

Awards and Honors

Individual Recognitions

• NBA Rookie of the Year (2006)
• NBA All-Star Game MVP (2013)
• 12x NBA All-Star (2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019)
• 11x All-NBA Team (4x All-NBA First Team)
• 9x NBA All-Defensive Team (6x First Team)
• NBA 75th Anniversary Team (2021)

League-Leading Achievements

• Led NBA in Assists: 5 times (2005-06, 2006-07, 2013-14, 2014-15, 2022-23)
• Led NBA in Steals: 6 times (all-time record)

Team Achievements

• NBA Finals Appearance: 2021 (Phoenix Suns)
• Western Conference Finals: Multiple appearances
• Playoff Appearances: 16 consecutive seasons

Hall of Fame Status and Legacy

While Chris Paul has not yet been officially inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, he is widely regarded as a future Hall of Famer. While he’s not won an NBA championship, there is no doubt that Paul is a future Hall of Famer and one of the best point guards to ever play in the league.

Championship Question

The one significant achievement that eluded Paul throughout his 21-year career was an NBA championship. Despite multiple deep playoff runs, championship-caliber teams, and sustained excellence, he never won the ultimate prize. This remains the primary storyline of his legacy.

Legacy Beyond Statistics

Paul’s influence on the game extends far beyond his statistical achievements. He elevated every franchise he played for, won at every level, and set standards for excellence that younger generations of point guards have attempted to emulate. His leadership, basketball intelligence, and competitive excellence made him invaluable to every organization.

The Point God’s Impact

Devin Booker on Chris Paul: “A lot of memories. Even before we were teammates, watching him and learning from him, being inspired by him. Ultimate winner. I’m happy he’ll get his flowers that he deserves. Should be every arena that he goes to because he’s changed the landscape of the NBA forever”.

JJ Redick speaks on Chris Paul’s legacy: “I hope he doesn’t win an NBA championship because that would mean the Clippers win an NBA championship…That’s who Chris Paul is, he’s the ultimate winner”.

Current Status (December 2025)

As of December 3, 2025, Chris Paul’s career status is uncertain following his unexpected release by the Los Angeles Clippers. The final few months of Paul’s career after this sudden split with the Clippers is suddenly in jeopardy.

Paul faces multiple options:

• Continue Playing: Sign with another NBA team for the remainder of the season
• Early Retirement: End his career earlier than anticipated
• Transition to Business: Focus on his ownership stakes and business ventures

Legacy Considerations

Regardless of how his final chapter unfolds, Chris Paul’s 21-year NBA career has cemented his place among the greatest point guards of all time. His combination of playmaking, defense, leadership, and sustained excellence over two decades represents one of basketball’s most remarkable achievements.

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Last Updated: December 3, 2025

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Frequently Asked Questions (People Also Ask)

Q: How many assists does Chris Paul have? A: Chris Paul has 12,000+ career assists, second all-time in NBA history as of April 2025.

Q: Did Chris Paul win an NBA championship? A: No, Chris Paul never won an NBA championship despite multiple deep playoff runs and Finals appearance in 2021.

Q: Is Chris Paul in the Hall of Fame? A: Chris Paul is not yet inducted but is considered a future Hall of Famer.

Q: When is Chris Paul retiring? A: Paul announced the 2025-26 season would be his final NBA season before being released by the Clippers on December 3, 2025.

Q: Why did the Clippers release Chris Paul? A: The Clippers parted ways with Paul to shake up their struggling roster (5-16 record), though they stated Paul was not responsible for the team’s poor performance.