Close to retirement, Chris Paul gets real about choosing San Antonio as destination
Despite pushing 40, the legendary Chris Paul is putting up decent numbers for his new team San Antonio Spurs.
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Chris Paul
Chris Paul recently opened up to Tony Parker about the challenges he faced last season with the Golden State Warriors. Paul admitted that coming off the bench was difficult for him, and the fact that his family resides in Los Angeles made it even tougher. He felt that if he was going to be away from his loved ones, he needed to be playing more regularly.
The San Antonio Spurs ultimately provided Paul with the perfect opportunity, offering a balance of playing time and a chance to win games. Paul couldn’t pass up the chance to join the Spurs, citing the team’s competitive culture and his desire for regular playing time.
Last year was probably one of the toughest years for me. I just love to hoop. I wanna play. If I’m gonna sacrifice my family and be away from them, then I at least need to be playing.
Chris Paul said on Spurs’ YouTube channel
CP3 on why he chose to play for the Spurs this season:
— CP3REGION (@cp3region) December 12, 2024
“Last year was probably one of the toughest years for me. I just love to hoop. I wanna play. If I’m gonna sacrifice my family and be away from them, then I at least need to be playing.”
(Via Spurs YouTube) pic.twitter.com/wk2KQHf7Xl
The San Antonio Spurs have been a surprise team in the NBA this season, with a 12-12 record that has them sitting just outside the playoff picture in the Western Conference. While superstar center Victor Wembanyama has been a major factor in the team’s success, Paul has also made a significant impact. After a down season with the Golden State Warriors, Paul has bounced back with a strong campaign.
Paul’s numbers are up across the board, as he’s averaging 10.2 points, 8.5 assists, and 1.4 steals per game. He’s also shooting the ball well, with a 42.8% field goal percentage and a 35.2% mark from three-point range. Recently, Paul made history by passing Jason Kidd for the second-most career assists in NBA history.
Spurs’ Chris Paul speaks on possible retirement
Chris Paul, the veteran guard of the San Antonio Spurs, is aware that his playing career is nearing its end. However, he’s not ready to retire just yet. In the conversation with Spurs legend Tony Parker, Paul expressed his desire to continue playing for “maybe a year or two.” He’s still weighing his options and considering his future in the league.
39 year old Chris Paul says he plans to only play 1-2 more years in the NBA.
— Courtside Buzz (@CourtsideBuzzX) December 12, 2024
Appreciate the ‘Point God’ while he’s still balling! ?
CP3 is averaging 10.2 PPG, 8.5 APG, 4.0 RPG, & 1.8 TOV in 28.9 MPG for San Antonio! ? pic.twitter.com/HroqEt2JZc
For Paul, the hardest part of playing at this stage of his career is being away from his family. The 39-year-old admitted that sacrificing time with his loved ones is a difficult trade-off.
If I’m gonna sacrifice my family and be away from them, then I at least need to be playing.
Chris Paul said
Despite being past his prime, Paul is still making significant contributions to the Spurs. He’s started all 24 games this season, providing veteran leadership and guidance to the team’s young core. While he may not be the same player who earned numerous accolades, including Rookie of the Year, All-Star nods, and All-NBA selections, Paul still remains a valuable asset to the Spurs.
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Anubhav Bajpeyee
(255 Articles Published)