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Veteran point guard Chris Paul joined the San Antonio Spurs, at least in part, because he couldn’t pass up the opportunity to play with a phenom.
While speaking to reporters during his introductory press conference on Tuesday, Paul said that the chance to play alongside 2024 Rookie of the Year Victor Wembanyama influenced his decision to sign with the Spurs following his release from the Golden State Warriors.
Paul is at the tail-end of his legendary career, so he will impart valuable knowledge to the 20-year-old throughout the next year. While the Spurs are unlikely to be in title contention, it will be fun to watch the floor general facilitate things for Wembanyama.
The 39-year-old said he was contacted by former Spurs stars and Hall of Famers Tim Duncan, Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili after signing with the team:
Wembanyama, the No. 1 pick in the 2023 NBA draft, didn’t take long to prove he can be a dominant superstar in the league. He averaged 21.4 points, 10.6 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 1.2 steals and a league-high 3.6 blocks. He finished second in Defensive Player of the Year voting and earned a selection to the All-Defensive first team.
The 2024-25 season will be a major step in Wembanyama’s development, as playing with Paul will undoubtedly be beneficial to his career.