Chris Paul gets iconic number thanks to Bradley Beal
March 10, 2013; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Clippers point guard Chris Paul (3) during a stoppage in play against the Detroit Pistons during the first half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Back with the Clippers for what appears to be his final NBA season, Chris Paul was able to get his preferred number, 3. A situation that could have created tensions with Bradley Beal, who also wore this number throughout his career, but which was ultimately resolved through a nice display of sportsmanship.
Chris Paul (@CP3) will wear No. 3 for the #Clippers. Number last worn by himself in 2017. #NBA pic.twitter.com/aJ1VTn9yS0
— Etienne Catalan (@EtienneCatalan) July 22, 2025
A gesture of respect from Bradley Beal to the legend
The question of number 3 was legitimate for the Clippers. Chris Paul wore it between 2011 and 2017 during the Lob City era, while Bradley Beal hasn’t worn any other number since 2012, whether in Washington or Phoenix. But according to Lawrence Frank, the franchise’s president of basketball operations, there was no debate.
« He’s worn number 3 his entire career and I believe he’s scored over 17,000 points with it, » Frank said about Beal. « But he also knows what this number means to Chris, there’s a reason why they call him ‘CP3’. As soon as he heard there was a possibility Chris might come back, he said he wanted to give him the number. I don’t even think Chris knew about it, but it’s great that Brad made such a strong gesture. »
A number destined for retirement
Since Chris Paul‘s departure in 2017, no player has worn number 3 in Los Angeles. Once the Point God announces his retirement, likely in 2026, this number should be quickly retired by the Clippers. This would be a historic first for the franchise, which has never retired a jersey before.
Paul’s arrival in a backup role was validated by the team leaders, particularly James Harden, his former teammate with the Rockets. « In talking with James and Kawhi, they both told me Chris would be the best player for this role, » Frank shared. « James is focused on winning, Chris and he obviously played together in Houston and they were just one game away from the Finals. »
This great story perfectly illustrates the spirit of camaraderie that exists with the Clippers, where Chris Paul hopes to win the championship that has eluded him throughout his legendary career.
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