NBA Free Agency: Paul chose Spurs for chance to play with Pop
Chris Paul chose the San Antonio Spurs for the chance to compete and play with coach Gregg Popovich more than chasing a ring.
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PAUL CHOSE SPURS FOR CHANCE TO COMPETE, PLAY WITH POP
Furthermore, Paul chose the Spurs mainly for a chance to compete and play with Popovich.
Moreover, the 39-year-old veteran point guard was featured in his introductory news conference.
He told reporters basically what was on his mind when he made the decision.
“I love nothing more than the opportunity to play and contribute and hoop,” Paul said after signing his one-year, USD11-million contract.
“And I love basketball so much that I could be close to home but if I’m not playing, I’m not happy,” he added.
Interestingly, Paul could have played near Los Angeles where his kids are based but chose to take his talents to Texas.
CP3 SAYS THE CHANCE TO PLAY FOR POP ‘AN HONOR AND A PRIVILEGE’
Furthermore, the man also known as “CP3” says the chance to play for Popovich was “an honor and a privilege.”
“When you’re in this for a while, there’s so much respect there,” Paul said.
“Not only for his basketball IQ, but just for who he is as a person,” he added.
Moreover, he described his meeting with Popovich before signing a contract as a conversation.
On the other hand, Paul is also intrigued by playing with reigning top rookie Victor Wembanyama.
“I played against (Wembanyama) this season and I tell you there’s probably no player in the league talks about after the game like him,” he said.
HARRISON BARNES TURNED DOWN EXTRA CASH TO PLAY FOR POP
Furthermore, another new veteran recruit, Harrison Barnes, turned down extra cash for a chance to play for Popovich.
The 32-year-old forward was acquired as part of the three-team trade that led to DeMar DeRozan going to the Sacramento Kings.
Barnes waived his 10% trading bonus to facilitate the deal that transferred him from the Kings to the Spurs.
Moreover, he chose that decision, like Paul, for the chance to play for Popovich.
“I think the opportunity to come here (Spurs) and play for Pop and play for this group I think is exciting,” Barnes said.
“He talks to every single player differently, and he knows how to connect with him,” he added on Popovich.
“So I think that’s why me and him kind of hit it off. He’s a straight shooter. I like that,” he added.
Interestingly, Barnes played under Popovich with Team USA that competed in the 2019 FIBA World Cup.
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