Chris Paul Climbs the NBA's Assist Ladder While Eyeing a Future Beyond the Court
Chris Paul's illustrious NBA career continues to reach new heights as the veteran point guard recently surpassed Jason Kidd to claim the second spot on the league's all-time assists list. Now in his 20th season, the 39-year-old maintains his influence on the court as a starter for the San Antonio Spurs.
This season marks a return to a starting role for Paul after his stint with the Golden State Warriors, where he primarily came off the bench. The transition to the Spurs has not only allowed him to chase individual milestones but also to be a pivotal element in a youthful San Antonio lineup eager for veteran leadership.
"I love this, practice today and all that. I love hooping, I love all of that," Paul shared, reflecting on his ongoing passion for the game. "The hardest part is when I get home and I gotta watch my kids’ games on my iPad. That's the tug-of-war right now."
At an age when most NBA careers have long since ended, Paul's enduring presence in the league attests to his skill, vision, and basketball IQ. A 12-time All-Star, Paul approaches each game with the same zeal that has characterized his career from the beginning. His role with the Spurs, both as a player and mentor, aligns with the imprint he's made throughout two decades in the sport.
Beyond his current accolades, Paul is contemplating life after basketball. He recently expressed his intention to involve himself in team ownership, specifically targeting the Charlotte Hornets or a potential NBA expansion team. Such aspirations mark a transition from player to potential executive, a path many iconic athletes have pursued later in their careers.
As Paul ponders this future, he is cautious about rushing into any commitments immediately post-retirement. "Maybe a year or two, I'm still trying to feel it out," he remarked, acknowledging the time he wishes to invest in his family. "I definitely know I don't want to do it right off the bat whenever I finish because I definitely want to be present for the kids."
Despite previous assertions that coaching was not in his future, Paul has shown a newfound openness to the possibilities that lie ahead. "I always said I wasn't going to coach, but I'm open to a whole bunch of things now," he noted, revealing a flexibility that could see him explore various roles within the sport.
Regardless of what the future holds for Chris Paul, his impact on the NBA is undeniable. As he continues to build on his legacy, both through his play and his potential off-court ventures, Paul's career remains a testament to talent and tenacity. For now, he will keep weaving his magic on the court, inspiring the next generation of players who watch as he crafts one of the most storied careers in NBA history.