On November 22, Chris Paul announced his intention to retire from the NBA after this current season, marking his 21st year as a professional. Shortly after, the Clippers waived him in a shocking move that Paul learned about in the middle of the night while the team was in Atlanta.

In the week that followed, various reports surfaced discussing the dynamics between Paul and the Clippers coach Ty Lue. Lue denied claims that he and Paul were at odds, amidst discussions of how Paul was learning about his status with the team.

To clarify his perspective, Paul recently spoke with People, stating, “I’m actually at peace with everything. More than anything, I’m excited about being around and getting a chance to play a small role in whatever anything looks like next.”

While Paul seeks a more suitable conclusion to his illustrious career than his abrupt exit from the Clippers, he embraces the chance to be home during the season and will attend his son’s game for the first time.

“I have never seen my son play a game in person,” Paul expressed. “Not a middle school game, not a high school game. So I’m excited about seeing him play.”

His unexpected free time has given him a preview of what retirement life might look like as he considers his future in the NBA.