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"I'm actually at peace with everything" - Chris Paul stays calm amid uncertainty in his final NBA year
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- "I'm actually at peace with everything" - Chris Paul stays calm amid uncertainty in his final NBA year
In an ideal world, Chris Paul would be relishing every game of the final year of his decorated career, relishing the adoration and applause from people who have watched him light up the NBA for decades. However, things don't always go according to plan, and Paul finds himself at home, told he was no longer needed by the very same team — the Los Angeles Clippers — he helped bring to new heights in the 2010s
Despite all the hubbub and furor caused by his dismissal, which has had NBA fans, players and the media discussing it for days, CP is curiously at peace. Instead of simmering with resentment and anger, he's taking his forced sabbatical as a chance to re-evaluate everything. Above all, he's relishing the opportunity to be around the one constant in his life: his family.
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In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Paul opened up about his mindset as he faces the end of his NBA days and talked candidly about the emotions he went through in the wake of his departure from the Clippers.
Enjoying his time with his family
A lot has been said regarding the developments involving the Point God. Some, like Kendrick Perkins and Paul Pierce , surmised that CP must have done something to get expelled from the team, like a mischievous child being sent to his room. Others have been more sympathetic, saying that the 12-time All-Star deserved better.
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Despite all the noise surrounding his departure, Chris Paul himself has remained surprisingly calm. He hasn't lashed out at anyone or engaged in any public drama. Instead, he has chosen to focus on what really matters: his family.
"Stuff's been a little crazy in the past few days — to say the least," CP told PEOPLE. "But honestly, I'm home. My daughter had tryouts yesterday. My nephew had a basketball game. My son has a game coming up on the 12th."
Being an NBA player comes with many perks. Plenty of money in their bank account. A nice house. Fame and fortune abound. However, one drawback is that they're not at home for most of the year, which means they miss many ballgames, birthdays, and memorable moments with family.
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However, with CP being told to stay away from the Clippers while the team's decision-makers ponder their next move, he has been able to participate in things that he has missed out on due to his demanding career.
"I have never seen my son play a game in person," he said. "Not a middle school game, not a high school game. So I'm excited about seeing him play."
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CP3 is at peace
Professional athletes rarely get the ending they feel they deserve. Some stay on for too long and retire as severely diminished versions of their former selves. Others are forced into early retirement due to injury or other unforeseen circumstances. However, with CP3's situation, he has found a silver lining.
"I'm actually at peace with everything," CP declared. "More than anything, I'm excited about being around and getting a chance to play a small role in whatever anything looks like next. "
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"That's life. The whole thing took on a life of its own, you know? But I'm excited to be back here with my family," he added.
Chris's journey with the Clippers may have come to an end, but many believe it's only a matter of time before he finds his place with another team. Here's hoping that he does. CP3 has poured everything into the game, and he deserves nothing less than a proper farewell.
This story was originally published by Basketball Network on Dec 10, 2025, where it first appeared in the Latest News section. Add Basketball Network as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
