Almost 17 years have passed since NBA veteran Chris Paul debuted for Team USA. He was a 20-year-old rookie back then, having had an impressive NBA season with the New Orleans Hornets. Despite producing over 600 assists in his debut year, Paul was still considered a rookie among the top stars like LeBron James and Dwyane Wade. In a video shared on Twitter, James and Wade can be seen “hazing” him by making him carry training bags. Today, Paul is a seasoned veteran and one of the best point guards of his generation. However, he had a season plagued by injuries, playing only 37 matches for the Phoenix Suns. In the upcoming season, he will join the Golden State Warriors alongside Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson, hoping to win his first championship.
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On the international stage, Paul’s debut didn’t go as planned. Team USA ended up winning the bronze medal, losing in the semifinals to Greece. Spain took home the gold, while the USA defeated Argentina to secure third place.
Chris Paul was made to do dirty work by the senior players on the Banana Boat crew
The Banana Boat crew consisted of Carmelo Anthony, LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Paul, who was the youngest member of the team. Being surrounded by young superstars, Paul received the treatment typically given to rookies.
In a Twitter video, Paul and Wade were seen signing autographs for fans. However, Wade started teasing Paul right away, prompting Paul to say, “get off me!”
Despite Paul’s protest, Wade continued his playful antics and ended up hanging his bag over Paul. The other Team USA players joined in, and soon Paul found himself holding a bunch of training bags.
LeBron James joins the party and hangs his bag on Paul, who disappears into the player tunnel. Paul was the 4th overall pick in the 2005 NBA draft, while Wade, Carmelo, and LeBron all entered the NBA in 2003.
All four had successful careers, but Anthony retired without a ring. Paul is also seeking his first title. He almost achieved it in 2021 when he reached the NBA finals with the Suns. However, they lost 4-2 against Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Milwaukee Bucks.
Paul is one of the modern NBA greats
Paul, despite not having won the NBA title, has had a remarkable career. He will be remembered as one of the league’s greatest classical point guards.
At 38 years old, Chris Paul remains an elite passer and mid-range shooter who can still perform at a high level. Known as the “point god,” he has a significant impact on younger players and serves as a true leader both on and off the court. His presence will greatly benefit the experienced Warriors roster.
Paul’s basketball intelligence is among the best of his generation, and he can adapt to various roles for the Warriors. Many basketball fans would be thrilled to see him secure a championship before he eventually retires.
