Chris Paul Rises to Second on NBA's All-Time Assists List
In a remarkable milestone, basketball veteran Chris Paul has etched his name further into NBA history by surpassing Jason Kidd to claim the second spot on the league’s all-time assists list. This achievement is a testament to Paul’s court vision, passing accuracy, and enduring excellence over his two-decade career.
Currently playing for the San Antonio Spurs, the 39-year-old point guard is not only impressing with his playmaking skills but also adapting to his role as a starter for the team this season. His journey to this point has been as impressive as it is storied, with Paul previously contributing his talents to the Golden State Warriors, where he mostly came off the bench. Now, as a member of the Spurs, he is once again showcasing his legendary ability to orchestrate an offense from the starting position.
Entering his 20th year in the league, Paul reflects on his enduring passion for the game. “I love this, practice today and all that. I love hooping, I love all of that,” Paul shared, highlighting the joy he still finds in the daily grind of the NBA. However, balancing his personal and professional life presents its challenges, notably missing the opportunity to watch his children’s games live. "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," he admitted.
Paul's prowess on the court has been well acknowledged throughout his career. As a 12-time All-Star, he has consistently been recognized among the elite, and his game intelligence and leadership have made him a valuable asset to every team he has played for. Now with the Spurs, he continues to demonstrate that his influence extends beyond just numbers, as he provides mentorship to younger teammates while still delivering performances that remind everyone of his prime days in the league.
The thought of life after basketball seems to be increasingly on Paul’s mind. When asked about possible future endeavors, he expressed an interest in transitioning to team ownership, with a particular focus on the Charlotte Hornets or perhaps a new expansion team. Addressing his timeline for moving on from playing, he noted, "Maybe a year or two, I'm still trying to feel it out." Importantly, Paul is considering his family in these decisions. "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," he explained.
Beyond team ownership, Paul is also pondering other post-career avenues, including coaching, a path he had previously ruled out. “I always said I wasn't going to coach, but I'm open to a whole bunch of things now,” he remarked, leaving the door open to numerous possibilities.
As Chris Paul continues to make headlines with his on-court performances and off-court reflections, he stands as a compelling figure in the NBA narrative. His record-setting assists mark another chapter in a career characterized by excellence, dedication, and an evolving legacy that promises to inspire future generations.