Chris Paul has officially retired. These words are painful to comprehend, knowing a legend of the LA Clippers did not get to finish his Hall-of-Fame NBA career the way everyone hoped, with a ring, yet the 12-time All-Star ultimately moved on with the decision he felt was best, which he conveyed in an Instagram announcement. This has shocked the Clipper community, as he was expected to sign with a contender to complete his farewell tour.
"This is it! After over 21 years I am stepping away from basketball..."Chris Paul
Paul likely had an opportunity at his fingertips after his trade from the Clippers to the Toronto Raptors, given his lengthy resume of accomplishments and broken records, but, in his defense, it has been a roller coaster of a season that is a lot to handle at his age (40).
Though no one knows whether his jersey will be up in the Clippers’ rafters following a sour ending, one thing is for sure: Paul meant the world to fans worldwide, and will always be regarded as one of the greatest to ever suit up in red, white, and blue.
Chris Paul wrapped up one of the best careers of the 21st century
Chris Paul had an exceptional 21 seasons. His days, specifically in an LA Clippers uniform, of breaking ankles, throwing lobs as the captain of a showtime era, and effortlessly recording double-doubles are cemented in the fanbase's memory.
For the Clippers, he is first in assists, second in steals, sixth in three-pointers, sixth in points, and eighth in minutes. However, as a point guard, he was named to the NBA's 75th Anniversary Team, earned close to 10 All-Defensive honors, and won numerous statistical titles in assists and steals.
He set the standard for what up-and-coming, undersized floor generals should strive to be like, and was the last of a lost breed still shining in the modern era of basketball.
Additionally, the all-time point guard debate would be incomplete without Paul’s name. He has proven all of these years that he belongs, in his own way, next to the Stephen Currys, Magic Johnsons, and John Stocktons of the conversation.
That said, the fact that Paul retired ringless stings, especially because he should have won with the Clippers, yet his career is to be celebrated with an extensive round of applause. Everything he did for the game, A to Z, is truly unforgettable.