The world of basketball just got a major update from one of its biggest stars, and it arrived with a classic mix of humor and heart. A new State Farm commercial has officially become the setting for a major NBA retirement announcement for Chris Paul, bringing together two generations of basketball greatness for a final send-off.

This lighthearted video also featured a special and succinct message from one of the game’s newest stars to one of its departing legends. Indiana Fever superstar Caitlin Clark looked directly at the camera and delivered a simple, powerful four-word tribute to Chris Paul, saying, “Thanks for everything, CP.”

This moment served as the official send-off speech within the commercial’s storyline. The ad itself is built around Paul finally answering the question he has been asked all season. It features a checklist for a proper retirement party, with Clark and the iconic Jake from State Farm ensuring every item is covered.

The checklist includes comfy shoes, a framed sweater vest, and a brand new microwave. Jake from State Farm steps up to handle the official speech, beginning with “Christopher Emanuel…” before Clark interrupts with her grateful and now viral four-word message. The ad creates a full-circle moment for Paul, who has been a face of the State Farm brand since the 2008 season.

Chris Paul is closing his career after a legendary 21 year run in the NBA. His resume is packed with incredible achievements that cement his legacy as one of the greatest point guards to ever play the game. He is a 12 time NBA All Star and an 11 time member of the All NBA Team.

The future Hall of Famer was also named to the NBA’s prestigious 75th Anniversary Team. His retirement marks the end of an era for one of the most accomplished and recognizable players of his generation. His partnership with State Farm is one of the longest running athlete endorsements in modern advertising history.

This is not the first time Clark and Paul have shared the screen for the insurance giant. In a previous commercial that aired just days earlier, Clark was the one putting Paul on the spot. She fired off a question about retirement that made the veteran point guard visibly squirm with a tense and awkward reaction.

That earlier ad was designed to feel authentically uncomfortable, and it successfully sparked conversation among fans. Clark joined State Farm as its first college athlete partner back in 2023. Paul’ first WNBA co star in a State Farm commercial was Sabrina Ionescu in a 2021 spot.

A Professional Bond

The relationship between Caitlin Clark and Chris Paul is primarily a professional one, built through their shared role as State Farm endorsers. Their collaborations in these commercials symbolize a passing of the torch between an NBA legend and a rising WNBA phenomenon. Paul has publicly supported Clark’s game in the past.

During an Indiana Fever game in June, he took to social media to praise her performance, specifically highlighting three deep three pointers in a row. He also congratulated her last September when she broke the WNBA’s single season assist record, noting “Assisting is what we do.”

Their on screen chemistry in the retirement ad feels genuine because of this existing mutual respect. The video also featured Paul’s daughter and sportscaster Taylor Rooks. For Clark, this high profile partnership is another sign of her exploding influence in the sports world.