Introduction
Chris Paul — often dubbed “CP3” or “The Point God” — remains one of the most respected and accomplished point guards in NBA history. As the 2025-26 season unfolds, Paul’s career is facing a turbulent yet reflective phase: from being released/waived by teams to delivering modest on-court production, while also hinting at the end of a storied 21-year journey. This article delves into the latest on Paul — covering his release/waiver status, his performance this season, biographical roots, and a look back at his career stats and legacy.
Hometown & Early Life
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Chris Paul was born on May 6, 1985 in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA.
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In high school, he earned the title of a McDonald’s All-American (2003) and was named North Carolina Mr. Basketball (2003).
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He played collegiate basketball for two seasons at Wake Forest Demon Deacons, where he helped the team reach a No. 1 ranking — laying the groundwork for his professional career.
His North Carolina upbringing, combined with early recognition and strong college play, set the stage for a legendary NBA journey.
Release / Waived Status — What’s Happening Now
Recent Moves
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In June 2024, after his stint with Golden State Warriors, the Warriors decided to waive Chris Paul rather than keep him under contract. This made him an official free agent at the start of the 2024 free-agency period.
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In July 2025, he re-signed with Los Angeles Clippers — the franchise where he previously had some of his most influential seasons.
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However, recent reports indicate that the Clippers are now parting ways with Paul again: per a December 2025 update, they “sent him home from a road trip early,” effectively severing ties with the veteran guard in this final NBA season.
What Does This Mean?
Being released/waived at this stage likely signals a transition point — possibly toward the end of his active career. At age 40 and after two decades in the league, Paul may be winding down, whether as a mentor, limited-minute contributor, or eventual retirement.
Indeed, several major outlets have reported that the 2025-26 season may be Paul’s final one.
2025-26 Season Stats (So Far)
According to recent stats from the Clippers and NBA summaries:
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In this season, Paul has appeared in a limited number of games (as of latest available data) — posting modest per-game numbers such as ~2.9 points, ~3.3 assists, and ~1.8 rebounds in roughly 14.3 minutes per game.
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Compared to his prime years, this represents a significantly reduced role. For comparison, over his career Paul has averaged 16.8 points, 9.2 assists, and 4.4 rebounds per game.
This statistical decline is in line with a veteran player transitioning toward a supporting or mentorship role, rather than as a team’s primary playmaker.
Career Overview & Legacy
Accomplishments
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Drafted 4th overall in 2005 by the then-New Orleans Hornets.
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A 12-time NBA All-Star, multiple-time All-NBA and All-Defensive selection, and one of the most prolific play-makers and defenders in league history.
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Known for his floor leadership, elite court vision, and defensive acumen — particularly in steals and assists, where he ranks among the NBA’s all-time leaders.
Career Stats (Per Game, Regular Season)
According to aggregated career data:
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Points per game (PPG): ~16.8
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Assists per game (APG): ~9.2
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Rebounds per game (RPG): ~4.4
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Steals per game (SPG): ~2.0
Beyond per-game averages, Chris Paul’s long-term impact extends to consistency, leadership, and intangible influence — qualities that many analysts consider as important as raw numbers.
What Does The Future Hold?
Given his recent release/waiver and sharply reduced role, plus his age, Paul seems poised to wrap up his playing career. Indeed, media reports indicate that the 2025-26 season will likely be his final one.
Yet, regardless of what happens next — re-signing elsewhere, retirement, or a transition to mentoring/coaching — Chris Paul’s legacy as one of the greatest point guards in NBA history is secure.
FAQs
Q: Is Chris Paul still playing in the NBA in 2025–26?
A: As of now, yes — but his role has been significantly reduced. He re-signed with the Los Angeles Clippers for the 2025–26 season.
Q: Has Chris Paul been released or waived this season?
A: Yes. The Warriors waived him in June 2024, making him a free agent. Then in December 2025, the Clippers parted ways with him during the 2025–26 season.
Q: What are Chris Paul’s stats this season?
A: Current per-game averages show around 2.9 points, 3.3 assists, and 1.8 rebounds per game in ~14.3 minutes per game — a far cry from his prime.
Q: Where is Chris Paul from?
A: He hails from Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA.
Q: What is Chris Paul’s career legacy?
A: Over his 20+ year career, Paul has built a resumé as one of the all-time greatest point guards — admired for his assists, steals, leadership, consistency, and court IQ. His career averages (approx. 16.8 PPG, 9.2 APG, 4.4 RPG) plus multiple All-Star and All-Defensive honors cement his status among the elite.
Conclusion
Chris Paul’s 2025-26 season may not be celebrated for eye-popping stats — but it marks a poignant chapter in the story of one of basketball’s most enduring stars. From his roots in North Carolina to decades of dominance in the NBA, CP3’s journey has been defined by elite playmaking, defensive tenacity, and leadership. As he faces release/waiver and transitions toward the twilight of his career, his legacy remains intact: a future Hall-of-Famer whose impact transcends numbers.
Whether he returns to another team, takes on a reduced playing role, or chooses to retire, basketball fans will remember Chris Paul not just for what he did on the court — but for how he did it: with class, intelligence, and unwavering passion.
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