LeBron James and Chris Paul have spent over two decades as two of the NBA’s most respected veterans, aging stars who continued competing at a high level long after most of their peers stepped away. This season marks the final chapter for Paul, who announced that he will retire at the end of the season.
His decision closes the book on one of the greatest careers ever by a point guard. Across 21 seasons, Paul established himself as the “Point God.” He ranks near the top of the league’s all-time lists in assists and steals, led numerous playoff runs, made double-digit All-Star appearances, and much more.
As Paul prepares to say goodbye, James, now the league’s oldest active player, has stepped forward with support. When the retirement news became public, he made sure to commend Paul’s longevity, influence, and consistency with a social media post.
After the Lakers’ narrow win over the Utah Jazz, James expanded on that message. He explained that more than anything, he wants Paul to approach this final season with a sense of joy.
“Hope he can just get joy out of this final year. …I hope he takes it all in. This is his last hoorah, so we’ll never get this moment again once you’re done to be able to go out and be in the arena,” James SAID.
“Hope he can just get joy out of this final year. …I hope he takes it all in. This is his last hoorah, so we’ll never get this moment again once you’re done to be able to go out and be in the arena.” – LeBron James on what he wishes for Chris Paul in his final season pic.twitter.com/7CL5j1MlIF
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) November 24, 2025
It was a gesture rooted in experience, coming from someone who understands how rare it is to play this long and remain competitive. The bond between the two veterans has always gone beyond the court, and James’ expression of support reflects that connection.
Both entered the league in the early 2000s. Both carried franchises on their backs. And both faced enormous expectations from the moment they were drafted. One career is getting ready to wind down while the other is in its final stretch.
LeBron James Didn’t Like Missing Games
While James offered guidance to Paul on his last run, he also faced questions about his own durability and future. This season has already been a challenge for him. A sciatic nerve issue sidelined him for the first part of the year, forcing him to miss the opening stretch, a first in his life.
James admitted that the absence took a mental toll. Having played basketball continuously since childhood, beginning a season on the sidelines felt completely unnatural.
“It was just fun to be out there with the guys, man. It’s been rough mentally for me,” James said after the game, “this is the first time I’ve started a basketball season and not played since I’ve started playing basketball, like nine years old, I’ve never missed the beginning of a basketball season.”
His return this week, playing in back-to-back games against the Utah Jazz, brought relief, not just for him, but for his fans as well. Missing those early games reminded him how much he still values the experience of competition.
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